Properties on the seafront are extremely sought-after for their fantastic scenic views, prime location and their (typically) expansive windows that take it all in. However, beachfront homes often have to battle with damaging winds and salty sea spray which requires your windows and doors to receive a little extra TLC. We take a look at what you can do to protect and maintain your timber windows and doors from beach life and what benefits you can reap from doing so.
How can I protect my timber windows from the elements?
Coastal properties, especially those that are not sheltered by other properties or hills, can be affected by weather much more than houses found further inland. In order to keep your property looking its best and fulfilling its duties in keeping its owners warm, cosy, dry and secure, it is necessary to ensure special care is given to the windows and doors, as well as other aspects of the property. The high winds, rain, sun, and salty ocean spray can take their toll on a home, particularly its paintwork.
Hardwood vs Softwood
Firstly, here at Parsons Joinery, we advise owners of coastal properties to opt for hardwood windows rather than softwood windows that are generally used on inland properties. Sea spray and other damaging elements can strip the paint off windows and doors pretty quickly (in some extreme areas the paint can wear away in a year or two). For coastal properties, we would typically apply additional coats of paint to windows and doors when being crafted in our workshop to help protect them from the harsh elements they face. Having hardwood external joinery will provide an extra hardiness if/when the paint wears away, and the hardwood is exposed, due to hardwood being much more able to withstand the elements than softwood. Hardwood is a slower growing type of wood and therefore has a tighter grain making it more stable and durable. For a closer look into wood type, check out this hardwood vs softwood blog.
Stay alert to impact
It is key that customers keep an eye on their windows and doors all year round to check their condition. There isn’t an easily applicable, hard and fast rule for how often to repaint; different seasons and inconsistent weather conditions year on year can have a greater or lesser impact. However, once you can see the paint finish begin to wear away, you should start to think about getting them repainted. It is key that when they are repainted, the painter applies at least four coats.
What benefits can be gained from protecting my timber windows?
Seafront properties are in themselves extremely sought-after and will typically command a strong price premium. Taking good care of the property will not only add value to your house, it will also help you sell it in the future (if you wanted to). The importance of a first impression on potential buyers is paramount and as we all know – you do not get a second chance at a first impression. The exterior of your house is the first thing that viewers will see so have the front of you house looking as well-presented as you possibly can. Showing potential buyers that you have carefully maintained your home will not only make your property look more modern and appealing but may well lead to more offers at and around your asking price.
Aside from looking great and adding value, taking care of your windows will ensure they last as long as possible allowing you to get the most out of your investment. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you are thinking of timber windows for your property, we’d love to chat with you.
