How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain functional, without swelling or decay. Sash windows that have not been properly maintained or treated can be prone to rattling and sticking.

Check for rotted areas on the window frame. If the rot is excessive it might be worth considering replacing the whole frame.

Examine the condition

Wooden windows are an attractive addition to any home. They offer a natural aesthetic as well as a high level of security. However, they can be susceptible to deterioration and damage and the condition of timber windows and frames should be regularly assessed to ensure that they continue to perform as intended.

Rot is among the most frequent issues that timber upvc window frame repair frames have to deal with. Wood rot can be caused by excessive exposure to water, which can cause timber to become spongy and soft. The good news is, it is treatable with perseverance and determination.

The first step in assessing the condition of your timber windows is to search for signs of damage or rot, such as cracks or loose parts. It's also worth checking the weather stripping that is on the windows to make sure that they're properly sealed and preventing water infiltration.

It's important to test for softness if you notice any signs of rotting. This can be done by pressing down on the wood with a screwdriver or your finger. A healthy, solid wood will be able to stand up to this pressure, while the wood that is rotting will fall easily. If the rot is more than 10%, it's best to replace the frame rather than try to fix it.

After the damaged portions of the timber have been treated, it's now time to remove them from the wood. It's best to start with a coarse-grit sandpaper, then move on to finer grits until your repaired area is smooth and blends seamlessly into the remainder of the window. After sanding, the repaired area can be primed and then painted so that the repair is not visible to the naked eye.

In some cases if the decay is severe and the wood is weak to be repaired, it might be necessary to have a lintel be placed over the windows. It's a structural support beam that carries the weight of walls over the cavities in which the timber frames are placed. A structural engineer can put in a lintel to prevent the decay and decay of old windows made of timber.

Take the Glass off

If a window repair (read this post from Daywell) has been damaged, it's best to remove the frame and work with the broken glass instead of working around the glass. This makes the job simpler. You'll want to protect yourself from the razor-sharp shards by wearing gloves and using a towel when wiggling out every piece of glass. If you save a few fragments, make sure you wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them properly.

After removing the glass you must examine the condition of the wood. It's a good idea use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe down the frame as well as the sash, and any vents you may have put in your windows. You can begin to get rid of the dirt and grime when there's a lot. It is essential to ensure that you don't release any solvents or chemicals into the frame or sash since this can cause damage.

It is recommended to replace damaged parts If you observe any indications of rust or corrosion on the hardware. This will improve the appearance and functionality of your window, and also prevent the window from jamming and squeaking.

Make sure that the frames and hinges are in good shape, that they move freely, and that there is no visible rot on the frames. If the hinges or sashes become difficult to open or close, it's typically a sign that they're worn out or out of adjustment and require readjusting.

Many timber window issues are the result of weather and moisture. Moisture uptake can create local stress on the exposed glued joint which could result in them opening up and let in moisture. Staining from moisture could be a result of this too.

Fortunately, modern timbers like Accoya and window repair Red Grandis can withstand a lot more damage than traditional timbers and therefore it's worth checking with your chosen joinery supplier to determine which type of timber they offer. It is important to choose the right type of wood since different types of wood expand and contract at different rates. Selecting the wrong type can cause damage and decrease the life expectancy of your new windows made from timber.

Take off the old Putty

Wooden windows are a common feature in older buildings. They can be fixed to make them look beautiful and perform their functions that include letting light in, preventing rain from entering and insulating. If left untreated the frames of timber can become subject to wood rot and, once this happens, the integrity of the window is compromised and a replacement might be required.

The first thing to be completed is to examine the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the material that holds glass panes to the wooden sash). It might not be feasible for large sections of wood to be saved, however they can be repaired and spliced to keep the rest of the window functional.

If you decide to proceed with a repair, the next step is to remove the sash from its holder and place it on a solid level surface such as an officemate. It is a good idea to remove the seals and handle at this point too so that you can inspect their condition.

There are many different products that can be used to loosen and remove old putty, but one of the best is to use a bit of household Chlorine Bleach mixed with Raw Linseed Oil. The mixture is applied generously to the old putty, and let it sit for fifteen or twenty minutes before scraping the surface with a chisel or a razor blade. It is often required to repeat the procedure several times to completely remove the old putty.

After removing the old putty, you'll need to thoroughly clean your frame and window to keep moisture from getting into. This could mean sanding them down and stripping paint layers with strippers made of gel, or cutting out rotten sections of timber and splicing them into new ones. If a splice is needed then it must be treated and painted with a sealant in order to prevent further damage.

After removing the old glazing putty, it's now time to apply a new one to the window. It is recommended to use a high-quality oil-based linseed, since it is easier to sand. It also gives the window a nice, smooth finish. It is a good tip to roll out a small amount of putty into the shape of a sausage before applying it to the frame of the window. This will make it easier to apply the putty, and look more neat once it is in place.

Reattaching the Glass

Wooden windows are a good investment and will last for a long time. They must be maintained regularly. If you neglect them for a long time the frames will begin to rot and cause damage to the structure, security, and insulation of your home. Repairing your window is usually cheaper than replacing it.

In the case of glass that has been damaged the sash windows can be repaired by removing the old glass window repairs, and then filling and re-glazing it with the appropriate size of the new glass. It is much easier when you are able to remove the double glazed window repairs near me from its casing. It can then be clamped on an object with the caulked side of the u p v c window repairs facing upwards, or put into a frame that has been opened and secured shut again.

The sash is fixed by a glue or (typically in older windows made of timber) panel pins. When repairing windows an old historic window it's important to use materials that are similar in appearance so the repairs don't stand out like a sore thumb. Most modern caulks are not suitable for historic homes and should be avoided.

It is also vital to ensure there aren't any traces of paint or putty left in the rabbet grooves that the glass is placed in the sash window; these will prevent the glass from sizing properly. Also ensure there is no debris in the sash window or around the frame which could cause leaks.

A piece of clear tape or concealing tape could be applied over the crack to keep it in place and to stop water leakage through the gap that could form. If the glass is in danger of falling off from the sash, a solvent-based glass glue can be used to fill the crack and hold it in the position it is in.

If the casing or sash is in good working order, the issues with draughts, sticky hinges and locks can usually be corrected by cleaning and lubricating them, as well as painting. If you're not confident in tackling these simple maintenance tasks yourself then a joiner or a company that specialize in overhauling timber windows may be able to help.