How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain functional, without swelling or rotting. Sash windows that aren't properly maintained or glazing treated can be prone to rattling and sticking.

The first step is to look for rotted areas of the window frame. If the damage is severe, it might be worth replacing the entire frame.

Examine the condition

Wooden windows can be a beautiful addition to any house. They provide a natural aesthetic as well as a high level of security. They can be vulnerable to deterioration and damage. The condition of timber windows, including sashes and frames must be checked regularly to ensure they continue to perform in the intended manner.

One of the most significant problems facing window frames made of timber is rot. Wood is susceptible to rot due to excessive exposure to water, which can cause timber to soften and spongy. The good news is, rot can be treated with perseverance and determination.

The first step to evaluate the condition of your timber windows is to check for signs of decay or other damage, such as cracks or broken parts. Examine the weather stripping of the windows to ensure they are properly sealed to stop water from entering.

It is important to check for softness if you see any rotting. This can be done by pressing down on the wood using the help of a screwdriver or your fingers. A healthy, solid wood will be able to withstand this pressure. The wood that is rotting will simply break down. It is crucial to remember that if the rot has spread to a greater than 10% of the frame, it's better to replace it instead of making repairs.

After the damaged sections of timber have been treated, sanding them down is the next step. Start with coarse-grit paper, then progress to finer grits. This will ensure that the repaired area blends seamlessly with the remainder of the window. After sanding, the repaired area can be primed and painted to ensure that the repair is not visible to the naked eye.

In some cases, if the rotting is severe and the timber is not strong enough to be repaired, it could be necessary to put a lintel inserted above the window. This is a structural beam designed to support the weight of the walls above the spaces where the timber frames sit. A lintel insertion can be done by a structural engineer and is a great way to prevent the deterioration of wooden windows in older buildings.

Remove the Glass

It's easier to work around the broken glass when you take the frame and window. This makes the job much simpler. Wear gloves and a towel to shield your hands from the shards of glass that are razor-sharp. If you end up saving a few pieces of glass, be sure to wrap them in newspaper and glazing dispose of them carefully.

After you've removed your glass and inspected the condition of the timber. It's a good idea use a damp cloth or sponge to clean the frame as well as the sash, and any vents you might have installed in your windows. If there's lots of dirt and grime, then you can start to get rid of it. Avoid getting solvents or chemicals in the frame and sash, since this could cause damage.

It is best to replace any damaged parts If you observe any signs of corrosion or rust on the hardware. This can improve the appearance and function of your windows, and also prevent them from jamming or squeaking in service.

Also, you should ensure whether the hinges are in good condition and be moved freely, and that there is no visible signs of rot or water staining on the frames. If the hinges and sashes are difficult to open or close it's usually a sign that they're worn-out or out of alignment and require adjustment.

Many issues with windows made of timber are caused by moisture and weather. Moisture uptake causes local tension in the joints that are glued, which can cause them to open and allowing moisture to enter the frame. Moisture staining can be the result too.

Fortunately, modern woods like Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand more damage than standard timbers which is why it's a good idea to check with your preferred joinery company to find out what timbers they can offer. It's important to get the right timber as different woods expand and contract at different rates, which means using the wrong one could lead to damage and a shorter life duration for your windows made of wood.

Remove the old Putty

Windows made of wood are an indisputable element of many older structures and if inspected and carefully repaired, they will look stunning and serve important purposes like letting in light, keeping out rain and providing good insulation. Timber frames can rot if they are neglected. Once this happens, the quality of the windows can be damaged and replacement could be required.

The first thing to be done is to thoroughly check the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the substance which holds glass panes in the wooden sash). If large sections of timber are badly damaged, it may not be viable to save them, but they can be spliced in and treated to ensure that the rest of the window will remain functional.

If you decide to go by making repairs, the next step is to remove the sash window repairs near me from its carrier and place it on a flat surface like a workmate. It is recommended to remove the handle and seals at this point as well so that you can inspect their condition.

There are a variety of different products that can be used to loosen and remove old putty but one of the most effective is to use a bit of household Chlorine Bleach mixed with raw Linseed Oil. It is then applied liberally on the old putty and let it sit for about 15 or 20 minutes before scraping with the chisel or razor blade. The process has to be repeated several times to remove all of the old putty.

After removing the old putty, it is important to make sure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to prevent moisture penetration. This could mean sanding them down or stripping paint layers using strippers that are gel-like or cutting out rotten sections of timber and splicing them into new ones. If a splice needs to be made, it must first be treated with a protective paint, and then painted.

After removing the old glass putty, it's time to apply a new one to the window repair near me. A good-quality Linseed oil putty is recommended since it is easier to sand and will provide an attractive finish to the window. It is a good idea to roll out a small amount 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 cleaner once it is placed.

Reattaching the Glass

Wooden windows are a long-term investment for your home and should be maintained regularly. If they are neglected for too long and the frames can rot which affects the structure as well as the insulation and security of your home. However, rather than replacing the whole window repaire it is usually more cost-effective to repair them.

In the event of a glass pane that is broken the sash windows can be repaired by removing the damaged glass, and then filling and re-glazing the opening with the appropriate size of new glass. This is simpler if you can take the window out of its casing. It can then be shackled on an object with the caulked side of the window facing upwards, or inserted into a frame that has been opened and secured shut and closed.

The sash is held in place by putting it on with putty or (in older timber windows), panel pins. When you are repairing an older window, it is important to choose materials that are similar in appearance so that the repairs don't stand out like a sore thumb. Modern caulks aren't appropriate for older homes and should be avoided.

It is also essential to ensure that there aren't any remnants of putty or paint in the rabbet grooves, where the glass is placed in the sash window. these can block the glass from fitting correctly. Also ensure there is no debris in the sash window or around the frame that could lead to leaks.

A piece of clear tape or concealing tape could be applied over the crack to hold it in place and to stop water from entering gaps that may develop. If glass is at risk of being detached from the sash, a solvent-based glass glue may be used to fill the crack and keep it in place.

If the sash and casing are in good shape and draughts are not a problem, they can be eliminated by cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you're not confident about carrying out these basic tasks, a specialist joiner who is skilled in overhauling wooden windows may be able help.