Why Repair Timber Windows Is Harder Than You Think

How to repair timber windows (Lookingfor official website)

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain in good working order, without swelling and decay. Untreated and poorly maintained sash windows can 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 could be worth replacing the entire frame.

Examine the condition

Wooden windows are an attractive addition to any house. They provide a natural aesthetic and a high degree of security. They can be susceptible to deterioration and damage. The condition of timber window frames, and sashes, should be assessed frequently to ensure that they function in the manner they are intended to.

One of the biggest problems that timber window frames face is the rot. The cause of wood rot is excessive exposure to water which can cause the timber to become soft and spongey. The good news is, rot can be treated with perseverance and determination.

The first step to evaluate the condition of your timber windows is to look for any indications of damage or rot, such as cracks or broken parts. Check the weather stripping on the windows to ensure they are properly sealed to keep out water infiltration.

It's important to test for softness if you notice any signs of rotting. This can be done by pressing down on the wood using a screwdriver or your finger. A healthy, solid wood will be able to withstand this pressure, while decaying wood will break easily. If the rot is greater than 10%, it's better to replace the frame, rather than try to fix it.

After the damaged areas of the timber have been treated, it's now time to smooth them down. It is best to begin with a sandpaper of coarse-grit and then move to finer grits until your repaired section is smooth and blends seamlessly into the remainder of the window. After sanding it is possible to prime it, then painted to hide the repair.

In some cases when the rotting is extensive and the timber is weak enough to be repaired, it might be necessary to have a lintel inserted over the window. It's a structural support beam that helps support the weight of walls over the spaces in which frames of timber are. A structural engineer can install an lintel in order to prevent decay and decay of older timber windows.

Remove the Glass

If a window has been damaged, it is best to remove the frame and work on that, rather than working around the glass. This makes the job easier. Wear gloves and use a towel to shield your hands from the razor-sharp shards. If you decide to save some pieces of glass, wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them in a safe manner.

After removing the glass, you must inspect the condition of the wood. Use an abrasive sponge or cloth to clean the window frame, sash, and any vents. You can begin to get rid of the grime and dirt if there is lots. It is essential to ensure that you don't get any solvents or chemicals into the frame or sash since this could cause damage.

It is recommended to replace any damaged parts when you see any signs of rust or corrosion on the hardware. This can improve the look and functionality of your windows and prevent the windows from jamming or squeaking when in use.

Check that the hinges and sashes are in good condition and that they are able to move freely, and that there is no visible rot on the frames. If the hinges or sashes are difficult to open or close it's typically a sign that they're worn out or out of adjustment and require adjustment.

Many timber window problems are caused by moisture and weather. Moisture uptake causes local stress on the joints of the glued, which could cause them to open and allowing moisture to penetrate the frame. Moisture staining can be the result too.

Thankfully, modern timbers such as Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand a lot more damage than traditional timbers which is why it's a good idea to check with your preferred joinery company to see which timber they can offer. It is crucial to select the right type of wood since different types of wood expand and contract at different rates. If you choose the wrong kind, it can cause damage and decrease the lifespan of your new timber windows.

Remove 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, preventing rain from entering and providing insulation. Timber frames can rot when they are not properly maintained. When this happens, the quality of the windows can be damaged, and replacement may be required.

The first thing that needs to be done is to check the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the material which holds glass panes in the wooden sash). If large sections of timber are badly damaged, it may not be viable to save them, but they can often be connected and then treated so that the remaining part of the window will remain functional.

If you decide to proceed with a repair to double glazed windows, the next step is to remove the sash from its holder and place it on a solid flat surface like an officemate. It is also possible to remove the handle and seals at this time so you can check them.

There are many products that can be mixed with Linseed oil to break up old putty. The mixture is applied generously to the old putty, and let it sit for 15 or 20 minutes before scraping it off with a chisel or a razor blade. It is often necessary to repeat this process several times in order to completely eliminate the old putty.

After you have removed the old putty, it is recommended that you have to thoroughly clean the frame and window to stop moisture from entering. This might include sanding down and stripping paint layers with strippers that are gel-like or cutting out rotten sections of timber before splicing new ones. If a splice must be made, it should first be protected with a paint and then painted.

Once all the old putty is removed it is time to apply fresh double glazing window repair putty to the window. It is recommended to use a good quality oil-based linseed, since it will be easier to sand. It also gives the window a nice finish. It is a good idea to roll out a small amount of putty and then form a sausage 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 an investment that will last for a long time. They should be maintained regularly. Neglect them for too long and the frames may decay, which can affect the structure as well as the security and insulation of your home. However, rather than replacing the whole window it is more economical to repair them.

If a pane of broken glass is discovered and it is repaired using the correct size glass. The old glass needs to first be removed and the new glass placed in. This is simpler to do if you take the window out of its casing. It can be then pinned on an object with the caulked side of the window facing upwards, or inserted in a frame that has been opened and secured and closed.

The sash is secured using putty, or (in older timber windows), panel pins. When repairing windows an old historic window, it is important to choose materials that have a similar appearance, so that repairs don't stand out like a sore thumb. The majority of modern caulks aren't suitable for historical homes and should be avoided.

It is also vital to ensure that there are no traces of putty or Repair Timber Windows paint left in the rabbet grooves, where the glass sits in the sash windows; these will prevent the glass from sizing correctly. Also, make sure there isn't any debris in the sash window or around the frame that could cause leaks.

A piece of clear tape or concealing tape could be applied over the crack to hold it in place and to stop water seepage through gaps that may create. If glass is at risk of falling off from the sash, solvent-based glass glue can be used to fill the crack and keep it in place.

If the sash or casing is in good condition then the problems with draughts, locks and hinges that are sticky can be fixed with cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you're not confident about doing these tasks, a joiner who specializes in overhauling wooden windows may be able help.