15 Amazing Facts About Repair Timber Windows That You Never Knew

How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain functional, without swelling or decay. Poorly maintained and treated sash windows may suffer from sticking, rattling and drafts.

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.

Verify the condition

Wooden windows can be beautiful additions to any home. They offer a natural aesthetic as well as a high security level. However, they can be susceptible to deterioration and damage, and the condition of timber windows and sashes must be checked regularly to ensure that they continue to perform in the way they were designed to.

One of the most significant issues facing timber window frames is the rot. Wood decay can be caused by excessive exposure to water which causes timber to soften and spongy. The good news is that it is treatable with perseverance and determination.

To evaluate the condition of wooden windows You should first look for indications of damage, such as cracks and loose parts. It is also important to check the weather stripping on the windows to make sure that they're sealed properly and are preventing water infiltration.

If you see any rotting areas, it's important to test them for suppleness. This can be done by pressing down on the wood with either a screwdriver, or your finger. A healthy, Repair Timber Windows solid wood will be able to stand up to this pressure, whereas rotting wood will give way easily. It is important to keep in mind 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 trying to repair it.

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

In some cases if the rotting has been severe and the wood is not strong enough to be repaired, it might be necessary for a lintel to be placed over the windows. It is a structural beam designed to support the weight of the walls over the spaces where the timber frames are. A lintel insertion can be carried out by a structural engineer, and is a great way to stop the deterioration of timber windows in older properties.

Take the Glass off

It is easier to deal with broken glass when you remove the frame from the window. This makes the job simpler. Wear gloves and use towels to shield your hands from the sharp shards. If you do end up saving some pieces of glass, be sure you wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them carefully.

After you have removed the glass, you must inspect the condition of the wood. It's a good idea use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the frame as well as the sash, and any vents that you may have installed in your windows. It's time to begin removing the dirt and grime in the event that there is lots. It is important to avoid putting chemicals or solvents in the frame and sash, as this could cause damage.

If you see any signs of rust or corrosion on the hardware then it's best to take out and replace the damaged part. This can improve the appearance and function of your windows and prevent them from squeaking or jamming when in use.

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

Many timber window seal repairs issues are the result of weather and moisture. Moisture uptake creates local tension in the glued joints, which can cause them to open and allowing moisture to penetrate the frame. This can lead to moisture staining.

Fortunately, modern woods like Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand a lot more damage than standard timbers, so it's worth checking with your chosen joinery supplier 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 selecting the wrong type of wood could cause damage and a shorter life duration for your timber windows.

Take off the old Putty

Wooden windows are a common feature in older structures. They can be repaired to look stunning and perform their functions, such as letting light in, blocking out rain and insulating. If neglected, however, timber frames can be subject to wood rot and once this occurs the integrity of the window seal repairs is compromised and a replacement could be required.

The first thing that needs to be completed is to examine 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 cut and treated to keep the remainder of the window functional.

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

There are a variety of different products that can be used to remove and loosen 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 sit for 15 to 20 minutes prior to scraping it off with a razor or chisel. This process should be repeated several times in order to remove all the old putty.

Having removed the old putty, it is important to make sure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to prevent moisture penetration. This may involve stripping paint with gel-type removers, or cutting out damaged timber sections and splicing them into new ones. If a splice is needed then it must be treated and painted with a protective product in order to prevent further damage.

After all the old putty has been removed, it is time to apply fresh glazing putty on the window. It is recommended to use a high-quality oil-based linseed, since it will be much easier to sand. It also gives the window a nice finish. Before applying the putty, it is a good idea to roll a little out and form an "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 a long term investment for your home, and Repair Timber Windows should be maintained regularly. If you don't take care of them for too long the frames will begin to decay and affect the structure, security and insulation of your house. But, instead of replacing the entire window, it is more economical to repair them.

If a piece of broken glass is found and it is repaired with the proper size glass. The old glass should first be removed before the new glass put in. It is simpler to do this if your window can be removed from its casing it can be firmly clamped on a work surface with the caulked side facing up, or put into a window frame that's been opened and then to close it again.

The sash is secured with putty, or (in older timber windows), panel pins. When you are repairing an older window it's important to use materials that are similar in appearance, so that repairs to double glazing windows don't stand out like a sore thumb. The majority of modern caulks aren't suitable for homes with historical architecture and should be avoided.

The new glass will not fit correctly if there are traces of putty or paint in the grooves of the rabbet. Be sure that there is no obstructions around the sash or in the window frame. This could cause leaks.

A piece of clear tape or concealing tape may be placed over the crack to hold it in place and to stop water seepage through the gap that could form. Glass adhesives made of solvents can also be used to fill and hold the glass in place when it is at risk of becoming detached from the sash.

If the sash or casing is in good shape, the problems with draughts, locked hinges, and sticky locks can be fixed with cleaning or lubricating the area and painting. If you're not confident in doing these tasks, a joiner who specializes in reworking wooden windows might be able help.