How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional, without swelling and rotting. If sash is not properly maintained and treated, windows can suffer from rattles, sticking, and drafts.

The first step is to look for areas that are rotten on the window frame. If the rot is extensive, it may be worth considering replacing the entire frame.

Examine the Condition

Wooden windows are an important component of many homes, offering a natural aesthetic and a great deal of security. However, they are vulnerable to damage and deterioration, and the condition of timber window frames and sashes should be regularly assessed to ensure they are still functioning as intended.

Rot is among the most frequent problems timber window frames face. Wood is susceptible to rot due to excessive water exposure which causes timber to become soft and spongy. The good news is that it is possible to treat the rot and have the wood restored to its original condition with a bit of effort and perseverance.

The first step in assessing the condition of your wood windows is to search for signs of decay or other damage, such as cracks or loose parts. Examine the weather stripping of windows to make sure that they are sealed properly and keep out water infiltration.

If you spot any rotting areas It is important to test them for softness. This can be done by pressing down on the wood using either a screwdriver, or your finger. Healthy, solid wood will be able to stand up to 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% of the frame, it is better to replace it instead of attempting repairs.

After the damaged portions of the timber have been treated, it's now time to sand them down. It is best to begin with a sandpaper that is coarse in grit before moving on to finer grits until your repaired area is smooth and blends seamlessly into the remainder of the window. After sanding, the area is primed and painted to ensure that the repair window glass is not visible to the naked eye.

In certain cases, if the decay has been extensive and the wood is not strong enough to be repaired, it might be required for a lintel be placed above the windows. It's structural support beam that helps support the weight of walls above the cavity in which the timber frames are located. A structural engineer can install an lintel to stop the decay and decay of old timber windows.

Take the Glass off

It's easier to deal with the broken glass when you remove the frame and window. This makes the job easier. You'll want to guard yourself from the razor sharp shreds by wearing gloves as well as using a towel when wiggling out each piece of glass. If you decide to save a few fragments, 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 a damp sponge or cloth to wipe down your window frame or sash, as well as any vents. You can begin to get rid of the grime and dirt if there is plenty. It is essential to ensure that you don't release any solvents or chemicals into 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 part. This can improve the look and functionality of your windows, and also prevent them from squeaking or jamming when in use.

Check that the hinges and sashes are in good shape and that they are able to are able to move freely and that there is no visible signs of rot on the frames. If the hinges and sashes become hard to open or shut, this is typically a sign that they're worn-out or out of alignment, and need to be re-adjusted.

Many issues with windows made of timber are caused by moisture and weather. Moisture uptake creates local stress in the exposed joints that are glued, which can cause them to open and allowing moisture in the frame. Moisture staining can be a result of this too.

Modern timbers like Accoya or Red Grandis are more resistant to damage than traditional woods. It is a good idea to ask your joinery provider which types of timbers they offer. It's important to get the correct timber, as different woods expand and locked contract at different rates, so selecting the wrong type of wood could cause damage and a shorter life duration for your windows made of wood.

Removing the old Putty

Wooden windows are a common feature in older buildings. They can be restored to make them look gorgeous and perform their functions that include letting light in, blocking out rain and insulating. If neglected, however, timber frames can be subject to wood rot and, once this happens, the strength of the window is damaged and a replacement might be required.

The first thing to be taken care of is to check the condition of the frame and double glazing windows repair putty (the substance that holds glass panes into the wooden sash). If large sections of timber are badly damaged it might not be feasible to save them, however they can often be put in and treated to ensure that the remainder of the window will remain functional.

If you decide to proceed by making repairs, the next step is to remove the sash from its carrier and place it on a solid flat surface like a workmate. You might also want to remove the seals and handle at this point so that you can check them.

There are many different products that can be used to loosen and remove old putty but one of the best is to apply a small amount of Household Chlorine Bleach mixed with Raw Linseed Oil. This is liberally applied to the old putty and then allowed to sit for 15 to 20 minutes prior to scraping it with either a chisel or a razor. It is often necessary to repeat this process several times in order to completely remove the old putty.

After removing the old putty, it is important to ensure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to avoid moisture from entering. This could include sanding down, stripping paint layers using strippers made of gel, or cutting off rotten pieces of timber and splicing in new ones. If a splice must be constructed, it should first be treated with a protective paint and then painted.

After you have removed the old glazing putty, it's time to apply a new one to the window. It is recommended to use a good quality oil-based linseed putty because it will be much easier for you to sand. It also gives the window a nice, smooth finish. Before applying the putty, it is a good idea to roll a small amount out and create an "sausage" shape that will be easy to apply and clean in appearance after being placed on the window frame.

Reattaching the Glass

Wooden windows are a good investment and will last for many years. They must be maintained regularly. If they are neglected for too long and the frames can rot which affects the structure, security and insulation of your home. But, instead of replacing the whole window it is usually more cost-effective to fix them.

If there is glass that has been damaged, the sash window can be repaired by removing the old glass and then filling and re-glazing it with the correct size of the new glass. It is much easier to do this if the window can be removed from its casing; it can be clamped down on an work surface with the caulked side of the enfield window repair facing upwards, or placed in a window frame that's been opened and then secured to close it again.

The sash will be secured by putty or (typically in older windows made of timber) panel pins. It's important to choose materials that look similar when repairing an older window. This will help the repairs blend into the existing decor and not be noticed. The majority of modern caulks aren't suitable for historic homes and should be avoided.

It is also essential to make sure there are no traces of putty or paint in the rabbet grooves that the glass sits in the sash window. these can block the new glass from sitting properly. Also ensure there is no debris in the frame or around the frame which could cause leaks.

A piece of clear tape or concealing tape can be placed over the crack to keep it in place and to stop water leakage through gaps that may form. If the glass is in danger of being detached from the sash, solvent-based glass glue can be used to fill in the crack and hold it in the correct position.

If the sash or casing is in good shape, the issues with draughts, locked hinges, and sticky locks can be fixed with cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you are not comfortable carrying out these basic maintenance tasks yourself, then a joiner or company who specialises in overhauling timber windows could be able to help.