How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain functional, and free of swelling or decay. Sash windows that are not treated or poorly maintained can be prone to rattling or sticking.

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

Verify the condition

Wooden windows are an attractive addition to any home. They provide natural beauty as well as a high security level. However, they are susceptible to damage and deterioration and the condition of timber windows and frames should be checked on a regular basis to ensure that they continue to perform in the way they were designed to.

One of the major issues facing timber window frames is the rot. Wood rot is caused by excessive exposure to water which causes the wood to soften and become spongy. The good news is that rot can be treated with perseverance and dedication.

The first step to evaluate the condition of your wood windows is to check for signs of rot or other damage like cracks or broken parts. Check the weather stripping on windows to make sure that they are properly sealed to stop water from entering.

It is crucial to check for softness if you notice any signs of rotting. This can be done by pressing down on the wood with either a screwdriver, or your finger. A healthy, solid wood will be able to resist this pressure. The wood that is rotting will simply fall apart. It is important to keep in mind that when the rot has spread to a greater than 10 percent of the frame it's better to replace it rather than trying to repair it.

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

In certain cases, if the decay is severe and the wood is too weak to be repaired, it could be necessary for a lintel to be placed above the windows. This is a structural support beam that helps support the weight of walls over the cavity in which the timber frames are located. A structural engineer can install a lintel to prevent the deterioration and decay of older windows made of timber.

Take the Glass off

It is easier to work around the broken glass when you take the frame from the window. This makes the task much simpler. You'll want to shield yourself from the razor sharp shreds by wearing gloves as well as using a towel when wiggling out each piece of glass. If you decide to save some pieces of glass, wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them with care.

After you've removed your glass and inspected the condition of the timber. It's a good idea to employ a sponge or damp cloth to wipe down the frame or sash as well as any vents you might have inserted into your windows. If there's lots of dirt and grime then you'll be able to clean it. It is important to avoid putting chemicals or solvents in the frame or sash because this can cause damage.

It is best to replace any damaged components when you see any signs of rust or corrosion on the hardware. This will improve the appearance and performance of your window seal repair and stop the windows from jamming and squeaking.

Also, you should ensure whether the hinges are in good condition, that they can move freely and there's no visible water staining or visible rot on the frames. If the hinges and sashes become hard to open or shut it's usually a sign that they're worn out or out of alignment, and need to be re-adjusted.

Many timber window issues are caused by weather and moisture. Moisture uptake can cause local stress at the joint that is exposed which could result in them opening and let in moisture. This can also lead to moisture staining.

Fortunately, modern timbers such as Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand more damage than standard timbers which is why it's a good idea to check with the company you choose to work with to see which timber they can offer. It's crucial to choose the correct timber, as different woods expand and contract at different rates, which means using the wrong type of wood could cause damage and a shorter life span for your new timber windows.

Take off the old Putty

Windows made of wood are a common feature in older structures. They can be restored to make them look gorgeous and perform their functions in letting light in, preventing rain from entering and providing insulation. If neglected, however, timber frames can be subject to wood rot and, once this happens, the strength of the window is compromised and a replacement may be required.

The first step is to check the condition and quality of the frame as well as the glazing putty. This is the material that holds the glass panes in the wooden sash. If large sections of timber are badly damaged, it may not be feasible to save them, however they are often connected and then treated to ensure that the remainder of the window will remain functional.

If you decide to go with a repair then the next step is to remove the sash from its carrier and put it on a flat surface like an officemate. It is recommended to take off the handle and seals at this point as well 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 most effective is to use a bit of Household Chlorine Bleach mixed with Raw Linseed Oil. This is applied liberally to the old putty, and allowed to sit for about 15 or 20 minutes before scraping the surface with a chisel or a razor blade. It is typically necessary to repeat this process several times in order to completely eliminate the old putty.

After removing the old putty, it is recommended that you need to thoroughly clean your frame and pvc window repairs, just click for source, to stop moisture from getting into. This could include stripping paint with gel type removers or even cutting out damaged timber sections and splicing fresh ones. If a splice is required then it must be treated and coated with a protective paint in order to prevent further damage.

After removing the old glass putty, it's time to apply a new one to the window. A good quality Linseed oil is recommended because it is 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 into an oval shape before applying it to the window frame. 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 you don't take care of them for too long the frames will begin to rot and cause damage to the structure, security, and insulation of your home. But, instead of replacing the entire window, it is usually more cost-effective to repair them.

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

The sash is fixed by a glue or (typically in older timber windows) panel pins. When you are repairing upvc windows an older window, it is important to choose materials that have a similar appearance so that the repairs don't stand out like a sore thumb. Most modern caulks are not suitable for homes with historical architecture and should be avoided.

The new glass window repairs will not fit properly if there are traces of putty or paint in the grooves of the rabbet. Also ensure there is no debris in the frame or around the frame that could lead to a leak.

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

If the casing or sash is in good shape, the problems with draughts and locked hinges, and sticky locks can usually be corrected by cleaning, lubricating and pvc window Repairs painting. If you are not comfortable carrying out these basic maintenance tasks yourself and are looking for an expert joiner or company that specialises in overhauling timber windows might be able to assist.