MEL ONERecord what is there before proposing a solution
Photograph each elevation and key detail: profiles, mouldings, glazing bars, hardware, joints, paint build-up and decay. Doors and windows can have local damage at a sill, bottom rail or exposed edge while much of the original joinery remains serviceable. A condition record separates repairable fabric from components that have lost integrity.
Make repair or replacement decisions visible
A good scope identifies retained timber, decayed sections to be cut back, matching timber and proposed joint locations. This makes a local splice, rebuilt sash or complete replacement comparable. Profiles matter, but water-shedding, glazing, fixing and the paint system are equally important to long-term performance.
Check heritage and planning requirements early
Some Adelaide properties are subject to heritage or planning controls, particularly for external or street-facing fabric. Requirements vary by property and proposed work, so confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or a suitably qualified adviser before substantial alteration. This article is a planning guide, not legal advice.
Give the repair a maintenance plan
Timber lasts longer when paint failure, failed sealant, blocked drainage and exposed end grain are addressed early. At handover, ask which parts were repaired, which finish was used, when to review it and which warning signs—cracking, sticking, water entry or soft timber—need another inspection.