How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional, without swelling and decay. Sash windows that are not well maintained or treated may be susceptible to rattling and sticking.

Look for areas that are rotten on the window frame. If the rot is excessive it is worth looking into replacing the entire frame.

Examine the condition

Wooden windows are beautiful additions to any home. They offer natural beauty and a high degree of security. However, they are vulnerable to damage and deterioration, and the condition of wooden window frames and sashes should be checked regularly to ensure that they are still functioning in the way they were designed to.

Rot is one of the most frequent problems window frames made of timber have to deal with. Wood rot is caused by excessive exposure to water, which can cause the timber to soften and become spongy. The good part is that the rot can be treated and the wood returned to its original form with a bit of effort and perseverance.

The first step to evaluate the condition of your timber windows is to check for any indications of decay or other damage like cracks or loose parts. Check the weather stripping on the windows to ensure that they are properly sealed and stop water from entering.

It is important to check for softness if you notice any rotting. This can be done by pressing down on the wood with the help of a screwdriver or your fingers. Healthy, solid wood will be able to withstand this pressure. Wood that is rotting will quickly fall apart. If the rot is greater than 10%, it's recommended to replace the frame instead of try to repair it.

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

In certain cases where the rotting is serious and the timber is too weak to be repaired, it may be necessary to have an lintel placed above the window seal repairs. This is structural support beam that helps support the weight of walls above the cavities in which the frames of timber are. The lintel installation can be done by a structural engineer and is a great way to stop the deterioration of windows made of timber in older properties.

Take the Glass off

If a window has been damaged, it's best to remove it from the frame and work on the broken glass instead of working around the glass. This makes the job easier. Wear gloves and towels to shield your hands from the sharp shards. If you decide to save a few pieces of glass, wrap them in newspapers and dispose of them with care.

After you've removed your glass you can inspect the condition of the timber. It's a good idea apply a sponge or damp cloth to wipe down the frame as well as the sash windows repair, and any vents you might have put in your windows repaired. If there's lots of grime and dirt, then you're able to clean it. It is important to avoid putting chemicals or solvents inside the frame and sash as this could cause damage.

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

Check that the frames and hinges are in good condition and that they can move freely, and that there's no visible decay on the frames. If the hinges or sashes are difficult to open or close, it's typically a sign that they're damaged or out of adjustment and require adjustments.

A lot of timber window issues are caused by the weather and moisture. The uptake of moisture can cause local stress at the joint that is exposed and result in them opening and let in moisture. The staining of moisture can be the result too.

Modern timbers such as Accoya or Red Grandis are more resistant to abrasion than conventional woods. It is a good idea to ask your joinery company what timbers they offer. It is important to choose the right type of wood since different types of wood expand and contract at different speeds. Using the wrong type could cause damage and reduce the lifespan of your timber windows.

Remove the old Putty

Wooden windows are a typical feature in older structures. They can be restored to make them look gorgeous and perform their functions that include letting light in, blocking rain and insulating. The frames of timber can begin to rot if they are neglected. When this happens, the quality of the windows is compromised and replacement could be required.

The first step is to examine the condition and quality of the frame and the glazing putty. This is the substance that holds the glass panes in the wooden sash. If large sections of timber are severely damaged it might not be feasible to save them, however they are often connected and then treated to ensure that the rest of the window will remain functional.

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

There are a variety of products that can be mixed with linseed oil in order to loosen old putty. It is then applied liberally on the old putty and left to settle for window handle Repair about 15 or 20 minutes before scraping it off with a chisel or a razor blade. The process has to be repeated several times in order to remove all of the old putty.

After removing the old putty, you have to ensure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to stop the entry of moisture. This might include sanding down or stripping paint layers using strippers that are gel-like or cutting off rotten sections of timber and splicing in new ones. If a splice is required then it should be treated and painted with a sealant to avoid further damage.

After all the old putty has been removed, it is time to apply some fresh double glazing window repairs putty on the window handle repair (just click the next post). A good quality Linseed oil is recommended because it will be easier to sand, and will give an attractive finish to the window. It is a good tip to roll out a small amount putty and then 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 are a long-term investment for your home, and should be maintained regularly. If you neglect them for too long, and the frames could rot which affects the structure as well as the security and insulation of your home. Repairing your window is usually cheaper than replacing it.

In the event of a broken pane of glass the sash window can be repaired by removing the damaged glass and then filling and re-glazing the opening with the correct size of the new glass. This is easier when you are able to take the window out of its casing. It can then be shackled on a surface with the caulked-side of the window facing upwards or put inside a frame that's been opened and secured again.

The sash is held in place by putting it on with putty or (in older timber windows), panel pins. It's important to choose materials that look similar when repairing an older window. This will help the repairs blend in and not stand out. Most modern caulks aren't appropriate for historic homes and should be avoided.

The new glass will not fit properly if there are traces of paint or putty in the rabbet grooves. Be sure that there is no obstructions to the sash in the window frame. This could lead to leaks.

A piece of clear tape or concealing tape may be placed over the crack to hold it in place and to stop water seepage through the gap that could create. A solvent-based glass adhesive may be used to fill in and keep the glass in place if it is at risk of falling off from the sash.

If the casing and sash are in good condition and the draughts can be fixed by cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you're unsure about doing these tasks, a specialist joiner who is skilled in reworking wooden windows might be able to assist.