How to Repair Timber Windows

To ensure that timber windows remain in good working order and free of swelling and rotting, they require regular maintenance. Sash windows that have not been properly maintained or treated can be prone to rattling and sticking.

The first step is to search for rotted areas of the window frame. If the rot is excessive it is worth considering replacing the entire frame.

Verify the Condition

Wooden windows are a crucial element of a lot of homes, offering a natural aesthetic and a great deal of security. They are vulnerable to deterioration and damage. The condition of wood window frames, as well as sashes, should be assessed periodically to ensure they function in the way they were intended to.

Rot is among the most common problems that window frames made of wood have to deal with. Wood rot is caused by excessive exposure to water which causes the timber to become soft and spongey. The good news is, it is treatable with patience and effort.

To evaluate the condition of timber windows It is important to first look for signs of damage such as cracks and broken parts. Examine the weather stripping of the windows to ensure that they are properly sealed to prevent water infiltration.

If you notice any rotting areas it is crucial to test them for suppleness. You can test this by pressing them down with the screwdriver or your finger. A healthy, solid wood will be able to withstand this pressure, whereas decaying wood will break easily. It is crucial to remember that in the event that the rot has gotten to more than 10 percent of the frame, it's better to replace it instead of attempting repairs.

After the timber sections that have been damaged have been treated, sanding them down is the next step. It's best to start with a coarse-grit sandpaper, then move on to finer grits until your repaired section is smooth and blends seamlessly into the remainder of the window. After sanding the area, it can be primed and then painted, so that the repair is invisible to the naked eye.

In some cases when 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. It's a structural support beam that helps support the weight of walls above the cavity in which the timber frames are located. Lintel insertion is carried out by a structural engineer and it's an excellent way to prevent the deterioration of timber windows in older homes.

Remove the Glass

When a window is broken it is best to remove it from the frame and work on it, instead of working around the glass. This makes the job simpler. You'll want to guard yourself from the razor-sharp shreds by wearing gloves as well as using a towel when wiggling out every piece of glass. 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 should check the condition of the wood. It's a good idea to apply a sponge or damp cloth to wipe down the frame as well as the sash, and any vents you might have inserted into your windows. If there's lots of dirt and grime then you can start to get rid of it. You should avoid getting any solvents or Repair Timber Windows chemicals in the frame or sash as this could cause damage.

It is best to replace damaged parts when you see any signs of corrosion or rust on the hardware. This will improve the appearance and functionality of your windows and stop the windows from jamming or squeaking during use.

It is also important to ensure that the hinges are intact and that they move freely and there's no visible rot or water staining on the frames. If the hinges or sashes are difficult to open or close then it's typically 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 Repair Timber Windows weather. Moisture uptake creates local stress on the joints that are glued, which can cause them to open and allowing moisture to enter the frame. This can lead to moisture staining.

Thankfully, modern timbers such as Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand a lot more damage than traditional timbers, so it's worth checking with your chosen joinery supplier to determine which type of timber they can offer. It is important to choose the correct wood, as different types of wood expand and contract at different rates. Using the wrong type could cause damage and reduce the life expectancy of your timber windows.

Removal of the old Putty

Wooden windows are an irreplaceable feature of many older buildings and if inspected and carefully repaired, they will look beautiful and fulfill their essential functions such as letting in light and rain, as well as ensuring good insulation. If left untreated wooden frames are susceptible to wood rot and once this occurs the structural integrity of the window is compromised and a replacement could be required.

The first step is to check the condition and the quality of the frame, as well as the glazing putty. This is the substance that is used to hold the glass panes in the wooden sash. If large sections of timber are severely damaged, it may not be viable to save them, but they are often spliced in and treated to ensure that the remainder of the window will remain functional.

If you decide to repair the sash the next step is to remove it from its holder. Set it on a flat surface like an employee. It is a good idea to remove the handle and seals at this point, so that you can inspect their condition.

There are many different products that can be used to loosen and remove old putty. One of the most effective is to use a bit of household Chlorine Bleach mixed with Raw Linseed Oil. The mixture is applied liberally to the old putty, and then left to rest for 15 to 20 mins before scraping it away with either a chisel or a razor. It is often necessary to repeat the procedure several times to completely eliminate the old putty.

After you have removed the old putty, you will have to thoroughly clean the frame and pvc window repairs to stop moisture from getting into. This could include stripping paint with gel-type removers, or cutting out damaged timber sections and splicing new ones. If a splice must be made, it should first be treated with a protective paint before being painted.

After you have removed the old double glazing windows repair putty, it's now time to apply a new one to the window. It is best to use a good quality oil-based linseed putty because it is easier to sand. It also gives the window a nice look. Before applying the putty it is recommended to roll a small amount out and form a "sausage" shape that will be easy to apply and tidy in appearance when it is placed on the window frame.

Reattaching the Glass

Wooden windows are an investment that will last for many years. They should be maintained regularly. If you neglect them for a long time the frames will begin to decay and impact the structure, security and insulation of your house. But, instead of replacing the whole window it is often more cost-effective to repair them.

If a broken pane of glass is found it can be fixed with the proper size glass. The old glass needs to first be removed before the new glass put in. This is simpler to do if you 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 into a frame that has been opened and secured shut again.

The sash is fixed by a glue or (typically in older windows made of timber) panel pins. It's important to choose materials that look similar when repairing upvc windows an older historic window. This will help the repairs blend in and not be noticed. Modern caulk products aren't suitable for homes with historic architecture and should be avoided.

It is also vital to make sure there aren't any remnants of paint or putty left in the rabbet grooves that the glass is placed in the sash window; these can block the glass from fitting properly. Also, ensure that there is no debris in the frame or around the frame which could cause a leak.

You can put a piece of clear tape or concealing tape over the crack to hold it in place. This will also stop the water from flowing through the crack. If the glass is in danger of being detached from the sash, a solvent-based glue for glass can 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, sticky hinges and locks can usually be corrected by cleaning and lubricating them, as well as painting. If you're not confident in tackling these basic maintenance tasks on your own, then a joiner or company who specialises in overhauling timber windows might be able to assist.