How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional, and free of swelling and rotting. If sash is not properly maintained and treated, windows may suffer from sticking, rattling and draughts.

The first step is to check for areas that are rotten on the window frame. If the rot is extensive, it might be worth replacing the entire frame.

Examine the Condition

Windows made of wood are an essential part of many homes, providing an attractive natural aesthetic as well as lots of security. However, they can be vulnerable to damage and deterioration and the condition of timber windows and frames should be checked on a regular basis to ensure they are still functioning as intended.

Rot is one of the most frequent issues that timber window frames confront. The cause of wood rot is excessive exposure to water, which can cause the wood to become soft and spongey. The good part is that the decay can be treated and the wood returned to its original form with a little effort and perseverance.

The first step in assessing the condition of your wood windows is to check for signs of decay or other damage like cracks or broken parts. Check the weather stripping of windows to make sure that they are properly sealed to keep out water infiltration.

It's important to test for repair Timber Windows softness if you notice any rotting. You can test this by pressing down with a screwdriver, or even your finger. Healthy, solid wood will be able resist this pressure. The wood that is rotting will simply give way. It is crucial to remember that if the rot has spread to a greater than 10 percent of the frame it will be better to replace it instead of trying to repair it.

After the damaged timber sections have been treated, sanding them down is the next step. Start with coarse-grit paper and then move on to finer grits. This will ensure that the repaired area blends seamlessly with the remainder of the window. After sanding the area can be primed and then painted to make the repair appear invisible.

In certain instances, if the rotting is extensive and the timber is weak enough to be repaired, it might be necessary to install an lintel installed over the window. It is a structural beam designed to support the weight of the walls above the spaces where the timber frames sit. Lintel insertion is performed by a structural engineer and it's an excellent way to avoid the degrading of wooden windows repairs in older homes.

Take the Glass off

It's easier to deal with the broken glass when you remove the window repair man from the frame. This makes the job much easier. You'll want to protect yourself from the razor-sharp shreds by wearing gloves as well as using a towel while wiggling out each piece of glass. If you save a few pieces of glass, be sure to wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them properly.

After you've removed your glass you can inspect the condition of the timber. It's recommended to use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe down the frame, sash and any vents you may have installed in your windows. If there's lots of grime and dirt, then you'll be able to clean it. It's important to make sure that you don't get any chemicals or solvents into the frame and sash as this could cause damage.

If you observe any signs of corrosion or rust on the hardware, it's best to remove and replace the damaged components. This will improve the appearance and performance of your window, and also prevent the u p v c window repairs from jamming and squeaking.

Verify that the hinges and sashes are in good shape and that they are able to move freely, and that there's no visible signs of rot on the frames. If the hinges or sashes become difficult to open or close then this is usually a sign they're damaged or out of adjustment and need readjusting.

A majority of window problems are caused by weather and moisture. Moisture uptake creates local stress in the exposed joints that are glued, which can cause them to open and allowing moisture to penetrate the frame. This can lead to the staining of water.

Thankfully, modern timbers such as Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand a lot more damage than traditional timbers which is why it's a good idea to check with your preferred joinery company to see which timber they offer. It is important to choose the correct wood, as different kinds of wood expand and contract at different speeds. If you choose the wrong kind, it can cause damage and decrease the lifespan of your new timber windows.

Take off the old Putty

Wooden windows are a common feature in older structures. They can be repaired to look stunning and serve their purpose in letting light in, blocking rain and providing insulation. If left untreated the frames of timber can become susceptible to wood rot and once this occurs the structural integrity of the window is compromised and a replacement may be required.

The first step is to examine the condition and quality of the frame, as well as the double glazing window repair putty. This is the material that holds the glass panes in the wooden sash. It may not be possible for large sections of wood to be saved, however they can be repaired and spliced to keep the remainder of the window in good working order.

If you decide to proceed by making repairs, the next step is to remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface like an officemate. It is recommended to take off the handle and seals at this point too so that you can check their condition.

There are many different products that can be used to loosen and remove old putty but one of the most effective is to apply a small amount of household Chlorine Bleach mixed with Raw Linseed Oil. This is applied liberally to the old putty, and let it sit for fifteen or twenty minutes before scraping it off with a chisel or a razor blade. It is often necessary to repeat the process several times in order to completely remove the old putty.

After removing the old putty you need to ensure that the window and frame are thoroughly cleaned to stop moisture from entering. This may involve stripping paint with gel type removers or cutting out rotten timber sections and splicing fresh ones. If a splice has to be made, it should first be protected with a paint and Repair Timber Windows then painted.

After removing the old glass putty, you can apply a new one to the window. A good quality linseed oil putty is recommended since it is much easier to sand, and will give an attractive finish to the window. It is a good idea to roll out a small amount of putty and form an oval shape 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 repairs are an investment that will last for a long time. They must be maintained regularly. If they are neglected for too long and the frames can be damaged by rot, which could affect the structure as well as the insulation and security of your home. But, instead of replacing the whole window it is often more cost-effective to fix them.

If a broken pane of glass is discovered and it is repaired by using the appropriate size glass. The old glass should first be removed and the new glass installed. It is much easier when you are able to take the window out of its casing. It can be then pinned on an object with the caulked side of the window facing upwards or inserted in a frame that has been opened and secured shut and closed.

The sash is secured by putty or (typically in older timber windows) panel pins. When you repair an old historic window, it is important to choose materials that are similar in appearance so that the repairs don't stick out like a sore thumb. Most modern caulk products are not suitable for historic homes and should be avoided.

It is also vital to ensure that there are no traces of paint or putty left in the rabbet grooves, where the glass is set in the sash window. these can block the glass from sizing correctly. Check for obstructions around the sash or within the window frame. This could cause a leak.

A piece of clear tape or concealing tape may be placed over the crack to hold it in place and to stop water leakage through a gap that might form. Glass adhesives made of solvents can be used to fill and keep the glass in place if it is in danger of separating from the sash.

If the sash and casing are in good working order, then draughts can be fixed by cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you are not confident about tackling these basic maintenance tasks on your own and are looking for an expert joiner or company that specialize in overhauling timber windows may be able to help.