How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain in good working order, without swelling and decay. Sash windows that are not properly maintained or treated can be prone to rattling and sticking.

The first step is to search for areas that are rotten on the window frame. If the rot is excessive, it may be worth considering replacing the entire frame.

Check the condition

Wooden windows are an important part of many homes, providing a natural aesthetic and lots of security. They are susceptible to deterioration and damage. The condition of the timber window frames, and sashes, should be assessed regularly to ensure they are functioning in the manner they are intended to.

Rot is one of the most frequent problems window frames made of timber face. Wood rot can be caused by excessive exposure to water which causes timber to soften and spongy. The good part is that the rot can be treated and the wood restored to its original state with some effort and patience.

To assess the condition of wooden windows You should first look for signs of damage such as cracks and broken parts. Examine the weather stripping of the windows to ensure they are properly sealed and stop water from entering.

If you notice any rotting areas it is crucial to test them for softness. This can be done by pressing down on the wood with a screwdriver or your finger. A healthy, Repairing Double Glazed Windows solid wood will be able to withstand this pressure. The wood that is rotting will simply break down. It is important to keep in mind that if the rot has spread to a greater than 10% of the frame, it's better to replace it rather than trying to repair it.

After the damaged portions of the timber have been treated, it's time to remove them from the wood. It's best to start with a sandpaper that is coarse in grit before moving on to finer grits until your repaired section is smooth and blends seamlessly with the rest of the window. After sanding the area, it can be primed and then painted to make the repair appear invisible.

In some cases if the rotting has been severe and the wood is weak to be repaired, it could be required for a lintel be placed above the windows. This is a beam that's designed to support the weight of the walls above the holes in which the timber frames sit. The lintel installation can be performed by a structural engineer and is a great method to avoid the degrading of timber windows in older buildings.

Remove the Glass

If a window has been damaged, it is best to remove it from the frame and work around the broken glass instead of working around the glass. This makes the job simpler. You'll want to guard yourself from the razor-sharp shards by wearing gloves and using a towel when wiggling out each piece of glass. If you decide to save some fragments, wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them with care.

After removing the glass you should check the condition of the wood. It's a good idea use a damp cloth or sponge to clean the frame, sash and any vents you might have inserted into your windows. If there's lots of dirt and grime, then you can start to remove it. It's crucial to ensure that you don't get any solvents or chemicals into the frame and sash, as this can cause damage.

It is recommended to replace damaged parts if you notice any indications of rust or corrosion on the hardware. This will enhance the appearance and function of your window, and also prevent the window from jamming and squeaking.

You'll also want to check that the hinges are intact and that they be moved freely, and that there is no visible signs of rot or water staining 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 alignment and require adjustments.

A lot of timber window problems are caused by weather and moisture. Moisture uptake can cause local stress at the exposed glued joint which could result in them opening and opening up to let moisture in the frame. Moisture staining can be the result too.

Fortunately, modern timbers like Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand more damage than traditional timbers and therefore it's worth checking with the company you choose to work with to determine which type of timber they offer. It is important to choose the right wood as different types of wood expand and contract at different speeds. If you choose the wrong kind, it could cause damage and reduce the lifespan of your timber windows.

Take off the old Putty

Wooden windows are a common feature in older structures. They can be repaired to make them look beautiful and perform their functions that include letting light in, preventing rain from entering and insulating. If left untreated wooden frames are susceptible to wood rot and when this happens, the structural integrity of the window is damaged and a replacement could be required.

The first thing that needs to be completed is to thoroughly check the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the material which holds glass panes in the wooden sash). If large sections of timber are badly damaged, it may not be feasible to save them, however they can be connected and then treated to ensure that the remainder of the window will remain functional.

If you decide to repair the sash the next step is removing it from its holder. Set it on a flat surface like an employee. It is a good idea to remove the seals and handle at this point too to allow you to check their condition.

There are many different products that can be used to remove and loosen old putty. One of the best is to use a bit of Household Chlorine Bleach mixed with raw Linseed Oil. This is liberally applied to the old putty and then left to rest for 15 to 20 mins before scraping it off with either a chisel or a razor. It is usually required to repeat the process several times in order to completely remove the old putty.

Having removed the old putty, you have to ensure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to stop moisture from entering. This may involve sanding, stripping paint using gel type removers or cutting out rotten timber sections and splicing them into new ones. If a splice needs to be made, it should first be treated with a protective paint, and then painted.

After removing the old glazing putty, it's time to apply a new one to the window. A good-quality Linseed oil putty is recommended because it is much easier to sand, and will give an attractive finish to the window. It is a good tip to roll out a small amount of putty and form a sausage shape before applying it to the window frame. 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 many years. They must be maintained regularly. If they are neglected for too long and the frames could rot which affects the structure as well as the insulation and security of your home. However, rather than replacing the entire window, it is usually more cost-effective to repair them.

In the case of a broken pane of glass the sash upvc windows repair can be repaired by removing the broken glass, then filling it with new glass and re-glazing the window with the appropriate size of new glass. It is easier to do this if your window can be removed from its casing it can be clamped down on a work surface with the caulked side facing upwards, or placed into a window frame that's been opened, and then closed again.

The sash will be fixed by a glue or (typically in older windows made of timber) panel pins. It is important to select materials that resemble those used when repairing double glazing window repairs glazed windows - Highly recommended Reading - an older historic window. This will make the repairs blend into the existing decor and not stand out. Most modern caulks are not suitable for historical homes and Repairing Double Glazed Windows should be avoided.

The new glass won't fit correctly if there are spots of paint or putty in the grooves for rabbets. Be sure that there is no obstructions around the sash or in the window repairs frame. This could lead to a leak.

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

If the sash and casing are in good shape and draughts are not a problem, they can be fixed by cleaning, lubricating, and painting. If you are not confident about tackling these basic maintenance tasks yourself then an expert joiner or company that specialises in overhauling timber windows might be able to assist.