How to Repair Timber Windows

To ensure that timber windows remain functional and free from swelling and decay, they require regular maintenance. Untreated and poorly maintained sash windows can suffer from rattles, sticking, and drafts.

The first step is to check for areas that are rotten on the window frame. If the rot is extensive it could be worth replacing the entire frame.

Check the Condition

Wooden windows are a beautiful addition to any home. They offer natural beauty as well as a high level of security. However, they can be vulnerable to damage and deterioration, and the condition of timber window frames and sashes should be regularly assessed to ensure that they continue to perform in the way they were designed 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 causes the timber to become soft and spongy. The good news is, rot can be treated with patience and effort.

The first step in assessing the condition of your wood windows is to check for any signs of decay or other damage like cracks or loose parts. Check the weather stripping of the windows to ensure they are sealed properly and stop water from entering.

If you see any areas of rotting, it's important to check for softness. This can be done by pressing down on the wood with the help of a screwdriver or your fingers. Healthy, solid wood will be able to withstand this pressure, whereas decaying wood will break easily. If the rot is greater than 10%, it's best to replace the frame instead of attempt to repair it.

After the damaged timber sections have been treated and sanded, the next step. 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 with the rest of the window. After sanding the area, it can be primed and then painted to make the repair appear invisible.

In certain cases when the rotting is extensive and the timber is not strong enough to be repaired, it could be necessary to put an lintel placed over the window. This is a structural beam designed to support the wall's weight above the spaces where the timber frames are. A structural engineer can install an lintel in order to prevent deterioration and decay of older windows made of timber.

Remove the Glass

It's easier to deal with broken glass when you take the frame from the window. This makes the job much simpler. Wear gloves and a towel to protect your hands from the razor-sharp shards. If you choose to save some shards then wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them with care.

After you've removed the glass, you can check out the condition of the timber. It's recommended to apply a damp sponge or cloth to wipe down the frame as well as the sash, and any vents you may have installed in your windows. If there's lots of grime and dirt, then you'll be able to clean it. It is essential to ensure that you don't introduce any solvents or chemicals 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 remove and replace the damaged parts. This will enhance the appearance and function of your window and stop them from squeaking and jamming.

Make sure that the hinges and sashes are in good shape and that they can are able to move freely, and that there's no visible signs of rot on the frames. If the hinges or sashes become 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 weather and moisture. Moisture uptake can create local stress at the joint that is exposed, which can result in them opening up and allowing moisture into the frame. This could also cause the staining of water.

Modern timbers like Accoya or Red Grandis are more resistant to abrasion than conventional woods. It is worth asking your joinery provider which types of timbers they offer. It's crucial to choose the right timber as different woods expand and windown repair contract at different rates, so choosing the wrong one could result in damage and a shorter life span for your new windows made of wood.

Take off the old Putty

Wooden windows are a permanent feature of many older buildings and, if they are inspected and properly repaired, they can look stunning and serve important purposes such as letting light in and rain, as well as providing insulation. If they are not maintained the frames of timber can become susceptible to wood rot and, once this happens, the strength of the window is damaged and a replacement may be required.

The first step is to determine the condition and the quality of the frame as well as the glazing putty. This is the material that is used to hold the glass panes in the wooden sash. If large sections of timber are badly damaged, it may not be feasible to save them, however they are often connected and then treated to ensure that the rest of the window remains functional.

If you decide to go with a windown Repair then the next step is to unhook the sash from the carrier and put it on a level surface, such as a workmate. It is a good idea to remove the seals and handle at this point, to allow you to check their condition.

There are a number of different products that can be used to loosen and eliminate old putty but one of the most effective is to apply a small amount of household Chlorine Bleach mixed with Raw Linseed Oil. It is then applied liberally to the old putty and then allowed to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before scraping it away with either a chisel or a razor. The process has to be repeated several times to get rid of all the old putty.

After removing the old putty, you have to ensure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to avoid moisture penetration. This could mean sanding them down or stripping paint layers using gel type strippers or even cutting out rotten sections of timber before splicing new ones. If a splice is needed then it must be treated and painted with a sealant in order to prevent further damage.

After all the old putty is gone, it is time to apply fresh double glazing window repair putty to the window. A good-quality Linseed oil putty is recommended since it will be easier to sand and will provide an attractive finish to the window. It is a good idea to roll out a small amount of putty into an oval shape before applying it to the frame of the window. This will make it easier to apply the putty and will look more neat once it is in place.

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 as well as the insulation and security of your home. Repairing windows is usually cheaper than replacing it.

If a broken pane of glass is discovered and it is repaired using the correct size glass. The old glass must first be removed before the new glass put in. This is simpler when you are able to take the window out of its casing. It can be then pinned on a surface with the caulked-side of the window repair man facing upwards, or placed in a frame that has been opened and secured shut again.

The sash is held in place by putting it on with putty or (in older timber windows) panel pins. It is important to select materials that are similar to those used when repairing an older window. This will help the repairs to double glazing 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.

The new glass won't fit properly if there is traces of putty or paint in the rabbet grooves. Check for obstructions around the sash or in the window frame. This could cause a leak.

You can put a piece of clear tape or concealing tape over the crack in order to secure it. This will also stop any water from leaking through the gap. A solvent-based glass adhesive can also be used to fill and hold the cracked glass in place when it is in danger of falling off from the sash.

If the sash or casing is in good working order, the issues with draughts, sticky hinges and locks are usually fixed by cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you are not confident in tackling these basic maintenance tasks yourself and are looking for an expert joiner or company that specialize in overhauling timber windows might be able to assist.