If you operate in manufacturing, no doubt you’re familiar with the effects of moisture ingress – even if you’re not sure what it is on a technical level or what causes it. Here at Rocal Extrusions, we have a clear understanding of this subject, so we’ve put together this useful guide. We want to help you understand not only what moisture ingress is, but more importantly, how to prevent it impacting your product performance.
Moisture ingress is mainly a problem for timber products. It’s caused by water finding its way into the wood and causing it to swell and warp. This in turn makes the joints shift and causes cracks to appear, as well as causing issues with rot and mould. This significantly impacts the lifespan of the product and unless it’s fixed quickly, can result in expensive repair bills.
Nobody at any stage of the manufacturing or installation processes wants their products to fall victim to moisture ingress – least of all the end users. Read on to find out more about the effects, methods of prevention (including our very own innovative solution) and why choosing Rocal Extrusions is the perfect option for understanding and eliminating moisture ingress from your next project.
Timber Windows vs. Moisture Ingress
Timber windows and doors have always been some of the most popular home improvement products on the market. The latter half of the 20th Century saw a real resurgence in timber windows of all kinds of styles, driven by a public desire to restore historic buildings and heritage homes. What’s more, the latest data from Google’s own trends records and forecasts shows interest in timber windows spiking into 2022 and 2023.
But that’s not to say that timber has a flawless record in the fenestration industry. Timber is known for being high maintenance – in no small part due to the adverse effects of moisture ingress over time. Those timber windows and doors that were renovated just over 20 years ago during the resurgence are likely in need of repair or replacement by now, so it’s important to reassure customers that their next timber renovation project won’t suffer from the same problems.
Effects of Moisture Ingress in Timber Products
While timber windows and doors are renowned for their beautiful, authentic appearance and timeless appeal, some of their drawbacks are just as well known. A major cause of failure for timber products is water ingress around the glazing. During heavy downpours, rotten wood or cracks in the frame allow rain to seep in and start causing damage. Water enters the space between the glazing and the frame through these defects, becoming trapped and causing issues to both the desirable aesthetics and the otherwise dependable performance.
When water finds its way into timber products, the issues start mounting up. Components will fail, performance will suffer, and uPVC or aluminium will look more tempting as possible replacements. Timber windows and doors have remained popular since they were first introduced, but they risk falling out of favour if they can’t keep up with the competition. Manufacturers need to be sure they’re offering reliable profiles; installers want to fit the highest quality products they can; and in the cost of living crisis, homeowners need to feel reassured that they’re investing in renovations that are built to last.
So, is there a solution, or has timber’s time run out?
How to Prevent Moisture Ingress
Here at Rocal Extrusions, our experience across a range of sectors has led us to develop TimbPlas, our industry-leading timber replacement material that will completely irradicate issues such as mould, swelling, warping, discolouration and rot.
TimbPlas is our recommended choice for use in window profiles as its exceptional performance eliminates many of the problems that plague the industry - which will keep fabricators and homeowners alike happy. As a barrier material for use within profiles, TimbPlas can help to prevent moisture ingress and the associated problems.
If you’re looking to discuss how to eliminate the threat of moisture ingress in your products and why TimbPlas is the perfect choice for you, we welcome you to contact our friendly and experienced team online using our online contact form, or you can call us on 01652 225 200.
Make moisture ingress a thing of the past and ensure timber’s popularity continues into the future – with TimbPlas from Rocal Extrusions.