How to Repair Timber Windows

To ensure that windows made of timber remain in good working order and free of swelling and decay they require regular maintenance. Poorly maintained and treated sash upvc windows repair are susceptible to rattling, sticking, and drafts.

Examine for Repair Timber Windows areas of rot on the window frame. If the rot is extensive, it may be worth looking into replacing the entire frame.

Examine the condition

Wooden windows can be an attractive addition to any home. They provide an appealing natural look as well as a high level of security. They are susceptible to damage and deterioration. The condition of timber window frames, and sashes, should be assessed regularly to ensure they are functioning in the manner they are intended to.

Rot is one of the most frequent issues that window seal repairs frames made of wood have to deal with. Wood rot can be caused by excessive exposure to water which can cause wood to become spongy and soft. The good news is, rot can be treated with patience and effort.

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

If you spot any areas of rotting it is crucial to check for softness. You can test this by pressing down using the screwdriver or your fingers. Healthy, solid wood can withstand this pressure, whereas the wood that is rotting will fall easily. If the rot is more than 10%, it's recommended to replace the frame, Repair Timber Windows rather than attempt to repair it.

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

In certain instances, if the rotting is serious and the timber is too weak to be repaired, it could be necessary to have an lintel installed over the window. It's a structural support beam that supports the weight of walls over the spaces in which timber frames are located. The lintel installation can be carried out by a structural engineer and is a great way to stop the deterioration of wooden windows in older homes.

Remove the Glass

If a window is damaged, it is recommended to remove it from the frame and work on it, instead of working around the glass. This makes the job simpler. Wear gloves and a towel to protect your hands from the razor-sharp shards. If you decide to save a few shards then wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them with care.

After removing the glass you should check the condition of the wood. Use a damp sponge or a cloth to clean the window frame or sash, as well as any vents. It's time to begin removing the dirt and grime if there is plenty. You should avoid getting any solvents or chemicals in the frame or sash as this could cause damage.

If you notice any indications of corrosion or rust on the hardware then it is recommended to take off and replace the damaged components. This will enhance the appearance and function of your window, and also prevent the window from jamming and squeaking.

Check that the hinges and sashes are in good shape, that they are able to move freely, and that there's no visible decay on the frames. If the hinges or sashes are difficult to open or close then it's usually a sign they're worn or out of adjustment and need adjustments.

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. This can also lead to moisture staining.

Modern timbers like Accoya or Red Grandis are more resistant to abrasion than conventional woods. It is worth asking your joinery supplier which kinds of timbers they have available. It is important to choose the right type of wood since different kinds of wood expand and contract at different speeds. Using the wrong type could cause damage and reduce the lifespan of your new windows made from timber.

Remove the old Putty

Windows made of wood are a common feature in older buildings. They can be restored to look stunning and serve their purpose, such as letting light in, preventing rain from entering and insulating. If neglected, however, timber frames can be subject to wood rot and when this happens, the integrity of the window can be compromised and a replacement could be required.

The first thing that needs to be done is to check the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the substance that holds glass panes into 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 so that the remaining part of the window remains functional.

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

There are a number of different products that can be used to loosen and remove old putty. One of the most effective is to make use of a little 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 with a razor or chisel. It is often necessary to repeat the procedure several times to completely remove the old putty.

After you have removed the old putty, you will have to thoroughly clean the frame and window to keep moisture from entering. This might include sanding down and stripping paint layers with gel type strippers or even cutting off rotten pieces of timber and splicing in new ones. If a splice is needed then it should be treated and coated with a protective paint in order to prevent further damage.

Once all of the old putty has been removed, it is time to apply some fresh glazing putty to the window. It is recommended to use a high-quality linseed-oil putty, as it will be much easier to sand. It will also give the window a nice finish. Before applying the putty, it is recommended to roll it out and form a "sausage" shape that is easy to apply and tidy in appearance once in position on the window frame.

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 may rot which affects the structure, security and insulation of your home. However, rather than replacing the whole window it is often more cost-effective to repair them.

If a piece of broken glass is found and it is repaired with the proper size glass. The old glass should be removed first, and then the new glass installed. It is much easier to do this if your window can be removed from its casing it can be clamped down on a work surface with the caulked side facing up, or put into a frame for windows that has been opened and then secured closed again.

The sash is fixed by a glue or (typically in older windows made of timber) panel pins. It is important to select materials that are similar to those used when you repair timber windows an older window. This will make the repairs to double glazed windows blend into the existing decor and not make a statement. Modern caulks aren't suitable for homes with historical architecture and should be avoided.

It is also vital to ensure there aren't any traces of paint or putty left in the rabbet grooves, where the glass sits in the sash windows; they will block the glass from fitting correctly. Also, ensure that there is no debris in the frame or around the frame that could cause leaks.

You can apply a piece of clear tape, or concealing tape, over the crack to keep it in place. This will also prevent any water from entering the crack. A solvent-based glass adhesive can be used to fill and hold the cracked glass in place when it is at risk of separating from the sash.

If the sash or casing is in good condition then the issues with draughts, locked hinges, and sticky locks can usually be corrected by cleaning or lubricating the area and painting. If you are not confident about tackling these basic maintenance tasks yourself, then a joiner or a company that is specialized in overhauling windows made of timber may be able to help.