How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain functional, without swelling or rotting. Sash windows that are not treated or poorly maintained can be prone to rattling or sticking.

Examine for areas of rot on the window frame. If the rot is severe, it may be worth considering replacing the whole frame.

Verify the Condition

Wooden windows are an attractive addition to any home. They offer natural beauty as well as a superior degree of security. However, they can be vulnerable to damage and deterioration, and the condition of timber windows and sashes must be checked on a regular basis to ensure that they are still functioning as intended.

One of the major problems that timber double glazing window repairs glazed window repair (my company) frames face is the rot. Wood is susceptible to rot due to excessive exposure to water, which can cause timber to soften and spongy. The good part is that the it is possible to treat the rot and have the wood restored to its original state with some effort and perseverance.

The first step to evaluate the condition of your wood windows is to look for any signs of damage or rot like cracks or broken parts. Check the weather stripping on the windows to ensure that they are sealed properly and prevent water infiltration.

It is crucial to check for softness in the event that you spot any rotting. This can be done by pressing down on the wood using a screwdriver or your finger. Solid, healthy wood will be able to withstand this pressure, whereas decaying wood will break easily. If the rot is greater than 10%, it's better to replace the frame, rather than try to repair it.

After the damaged portions of the timber have been treated, it's time to smooth them down. 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, it can be primed, then painted to hide the repair.

In certain instances when the rotting is extensive and the timber is too weak to be repaired, it could be necessary to have a lintel inserted above the window. It's an structural support beam that supports the weight of walls over the cavities in which the timber frames are located. The lintel installation can be done by a structural engineer and it's an excellent way to stop the deterioration of windows made of timber in older homes.

Take the Glass off

If a window is damaged, it is best to remove the frame and work around it, instead of working around the glass. This makes the task much easier. Wear gloves and use a towel to protect your hands from the razor-sharp shards. If you decide to save some pieces of glass, wrap them in newspapers and dispose of them in a safe manner.

After you have removed the glass, you must examine the condition of the wood. Use a damp sponge or a cloth to wipe down the window frame as well as the sash and any vents. It's time to begin removing the grime and dirt in the event that there is lots. You should avoid getting any solvents or chemicals in the frame and sash windows repair since this could cause damage.

If you observe any signs of rust or corrosion on the hardware, double glazed window repair it is recommended to take off and replace the damaged components. This will improve the appearance and functionality of your upvc window repair kit and prevent them from squeaking and jamming.

You'll also want to check that the hinges aren't damaged and move freely and that there's no visible water staining or visible rot on the frames. If the hinges and sashes are difficult to open or close, this is usually an indication that they're worn-out or out of alignment and need to be re-adjusted.

Many timber window problems are caused by moisture and weather. Moisture uptake creates local stress on the glued joints, which can lead to them opening up and allowing moisture to penetrate the frame. This can lead to the staining of water.

Modern timbers like Accoya or Red Grandis are more resistant to damage than standard woods. It is a good idea to ask your joinery provider which types of woods they can offer. It's crucial to choose the right type of timber since different woods expand and contract at different rates, which means selecting the wrong one could result in damage and a shorter duration for your windows made of wood.

Removal of the old Putty

Wooden windows are a permanent element of many older structures and, if properly examined and repaired can be made to look stunning and fulfill their essential functions like letting in light, keeping out rain and providing insulation. If they are not maintained wooden frames are susceptible to wood rot and, once this happens, the strength of the window is compromised and a replacement could be required.

The first thing that needs to be taken care of is to check the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the substance which holds glass panes in the wooden sash). It may not be possible for large portions of wood to be saved, however they can be spliced and treated in order to keep the remainder of the window in good working order.

If you decide to repair upvc windows the sash, the next step is removing it from its holder. Set it on a flat surface, similar to a workmate. It is recommended to remove the handle and seals at this point too so that you can inspect their condition.

There are a variety of products that can be mixed with raw Linseed oil to break up old putty. The mixture is applied liberally to the old putty, and then left to rest for 15 to 20 minutes prior to scraping it with the help of a chisel or razor. This process should be repeated several times to get rid of all of the old putty.

After removing the old putty, you will need to thoroughly clean the window and frame to prevent moisture from entering. This could include sanding, stripping paint using gel-type removers, or cutting off rotten wood sections and splicing new ones. If a splice needs to be made, it should first be treated with a protective paint, and then painted.

After you have removed the old glazing putty, it's now time to apply a new one to the window. A good quality Linseed oil putty is recommended as it will be easier to sand, and Double Glazed Window Repair will give an attractive finish to the window. Before applying the putty, it is recommended to roll it out and create an "sausage" shape that is easy to apply and tidy in appearance once in position on the frame of the window.

Reattaching the Glass

Wooden windows are an investment that will last for many years. They 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. But, instead of replacing the whole window it is often more cost-effective to fix them.

In the case of a broken pane of glass, the sash window can be repaired by removing the broken glass, and then filling and re-glazing the opening with the correct size of the new glass. It is much easier to do this if the window can be removed from its casing; it can be secured on an work surface with the caulked side of the window facing upwards, or inserted in a window frame that's been opened and then shut.

The sash is secured using 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 to double glazing windows don't stick out as a sore thumb. Modern caulks aren't suitable for historical homes and should be avoided.

The new glass will not fit properly if there is spots of paint or putty in the grooves of the rabbet. Also, make sure there isn't any debris in the sash window or around the frame that 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 from entering gaps that may create. If the glass is in danger of falling off from the sash, a solvent-based glass glue can be used to fill in the crack and hold it in the position it is in.

If the casing and sash are in good working order and the draughts can be eliminated through cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you're not confident in carrying out these basic tasks, a joiner who specializes in overhauling wooden windows may be able help.