It’s no secret that winter can be especially harsh on our gardens, affecting everything from soils to plants. Timber is a natural, durable material, but like anything outdoors, it benefits from a little care. If existing wear or small issues are left unchecked going into winter, colder, wetter conditions can make them more noticeable over time.
As one of Wigan’s most experienced timber merchants, we’ve been a trusted supplier of premium timber, hardwood, sheet materials and more for over 50 years, and we‘ve seen firsthand the impact harsh winter weather can have on timber structures like fence panels and sheds. With that in mind, staying on top of minor damage is incredibly important, especially in cold weather. Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when repairing your timber this winter.
Regularly inspect your timber
Being proactive is the best defence against premature wear and costly replacements. Keeping a close eye on your timber means that you can catch things like rot and damage early on, before it spirals from a minor issue into a major problem. As winter continues, take the time to regularly examine timber structures for signs like scratches or cracks. Though they may seem like simple cosmetic concerns, they give moisture a perfect opportunity to seep in – this can lead to fungal decay and warping as well as the freeze-thaw effect, a cycle that involves repeated freezing and thawing that can lead to more serious structural problems.
Always wait for the timber to be dry before repairing
Given the less-than-pleasant weather we experience at this time of the year, this might be a little tricky, but it’s definitely worthwhile. Applying products like wood filler to damp timber can render them ineffective, leading to issues like trapped moisture, slow drying or a poor overall repair. We recommend thoroughly cleaning off the area, scraping and sanding away any loose wood and waiting a day or two to ensure that the timber is completely dry before moving on.
Use quality products for a strong, long-lasting repair job
Using the right products to complete your timber repairs makes a world of difference, ensuring that your surfaces stay strong and safe through the cold winter period. For rotten or decayed wood, we recommend using wood hardener first to deeply penetrate and seal the affected timber. To fill cracks, holes or damaged corners, Everbuild 2-Part High Performance Wood Filler is incredibly strong and completely weatherproof. It’s also fast-drying, meaning that you don’t have to worry as much about a sudden downpour ruining the repair’s finish. Once it’s dried, carefully sand the area and apply either paint or stain to ensure it blends in with the rest of the timber, further protecting the wood from harsh winter weather.
Those are the basics covered – but of course, if your timber is damaged beyond repair, we’re also here to help. At Sherman & Young Timber Merchants, we’re a proudly family-owned business with decades of experience, stocking everything you need to transform your garden all under one roof. If you’re looking for a reputable timber merchant in Wigan, explore our extensive range of timber online or give us a call on 01942 727 314 today.
