10 Repair Timber Windows Tricks Experts Recommend
How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain functional, without swelling or rotting. Sash windows that have not been treated or poorly maintained can be susceptible to rattling and sticking.
The first step is to check for rotted areas of the window frame. If the rot is severe, it might be worth replacing the entire frame.
Verify the condition
Wooden windows are beautiful additions to any home. They provide a natural aesthetic and a high degree of security. However, they are susceptible to deterioration and damage and the condition of wooden windows and frames should be regularly assessed to ensure they continue to perform in the way they were designed to.
One of the major problems facing window frames made of timber is decay. The cause of wood rot is excessive exposure to water which causes the timber to soften and become spongy. The good news is, it is treatable with perseverance and dedication.
To determine the condition of windows made of timber You should first look for indications of damage, such as cracks, loose parts and even a few pieces. Check the weather stripping on windows to make sure that they are sealed properly and prevent water infiltration.
It is important to check for softness in the event that you spot any rotting. You can test this by pressing them down with the screwdriver or your finger. Healthy, solid wood will be able resist this pressure. Wood that is rotting will quickly break down. If the rot is more than 10%, it's better to replace the frame, rather than attempt to repair it.
After the damaged portions of the timber have been treated, it's time to remove them from the wood. Begin with coarse-grit papers, then move to finer grits. This will ensure that the repaired area blends seamlessly with the rest of the window. After sanding the area, it can be primed and then painted to ensure that the repair is invisible to the naked eye.
In some 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 over the windows. It is structural support beam that helps support the weight of walls over the cavities in which the timber frames are placed. A structural engineer could install a lintel to prevent the deterioration and decay of older windows made of timber.
Take the Glass off
If a window is damaged, it's best to remove the frame and work with that, rather than working around the glass. This makes the job much simpler. You'll want to guard yourself from the razor-sharp shards by wearing gloves and using a towel when wiggling out every piece of glass. If you do save a few shards, then make sure you wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them properly.
After you've removed your glass you can inspect the condition of the timber. Use an abrasive sponge or cloth to wipe down your window's frame as well as the sash and any vents. If there's a lot of grime and dirt, then you're able to clean it. It is essential to ensure that you don't get any chemicals or solvents into the frame and sash, as they can cause damage.
It is recommended to replace damaged parts when you see any signs of rust or corrosion on the hardware. This will improve the appearance and functionality of your window and stop the window from jamming and squeaking.
Make sure that the frames and hinges are in good working order and that they can are able to move freely, and that there is no visible signs of rot on the frames. If window repair and sashes are difficult to open or close it's usually an indication that they're worn out or out of alignment and require adjustment.
Many timber window problems are caused by weather and moisture. Moisture uptake causes local stress in the exposed glued joints, which can lead to them opening up and allowing moisture in the frame. Moisture staining can be the result too.
Fortunately, modern timbers like Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand a lot more damage than traditional timbers, so it's worth checking with your preferred joinery company to see which timber they can offer. It is crucial to select the right type of wood since different kinds of wood expand and contract at different rates. Using the wrong type can cause damage and decrease the life expectancy of your new windows made from timber.
Removal of the old Putty
Wooden windows are a typical feature in older buildings. They can be restored to make them look gorgeous and fulfill their purposes, such as letting light in, blocking out rain and insulating. The frames of timber can begin to rot when they are not maintained. If this happens, the integrity of the windows is damaged and replacement could be required.
The first thing to be done is to thoroughly check the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the material that holds glass panes to the wooden sash). If large portions of timber are badly damaged it might not be feasible to save them, however they can be connected and then treated to ensure that the remainder of the window can remain functional.
If you decide to proceed with a repair, the next step is to take the sash from its holder and place it on a solid level surface, such as a workmate. It is also possible to remove the handle and seals at this point so that you can inspect them.
There are a number of different products that can be used to loosen and eliminate old putty, but one of the best is to use a bit of Household Chlorine Bleach mixed with raw Linseed Oil. It is then 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. It is typically necessary to repeat this process several times in order to completely remove the old putty.
Having removed the old putty, it is important to ensure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to stop moisture penetration. This could include sanding, stripping paint using gel type removers or cutting out rotten timber sections and splicing new ones. If a splice is required, then it must be treated and painted with a protective product to avoid further damage.
After you have removed the old glazing putty, it's time to apply a new one to the window. A high-quality linseed oil putty is recommended since it will be easier to sand and provide an attractive finish to the window. It is a good tip to roll out a small amount putty into an oval shape before applying it to the frame of the window. This will make it easier to apply the putty, and look neater once in place.
Reattaching the Glass
Wooden windows are an investment that will last for many years. They should be maintained regularly. If you don't take care of them for a long time the frames will begin to rot and cause damage to 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 a broken pane of glass, the sash window can be repaired by removing the damaged glass and then filling and re-glazing the window with the appropriate size of the new glass. It is simpler to accomplish this if the window is removed from its casing it can be firmly clamped on an work surface with the caulked side facing upwards, or placed into a window frame that's 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 essential to choose materials that resemble those used when you repair an older window. This will make the repairs blend into the existing decor and not make a statement. The majority of modern caulks aren't appropriate for historic homes and should be avoided.
It is also important to ensure that there aren't any traces of putty or paint in the rabbet grooves where the glass sits in the sash window; these can block the new glass from sitting properly. Be sure that there is no obstructions around the sash or within the window frame. This could lead to leaks.
A piece of clear tape or concealing tape can be placed over the crack to hold it in place and stop water seepage through the gap that could form. If glass is at risk of separating from the sash, a solvent-based glass glue may be used to fill the crack and hold it in the correct position.
If the sash or casing is in good condition then the issues with draughts, locks and hinges that are sticky can be fixed with cleaning and lubricating them, as well as painting. If you're not confident in tackling these simple maintenance tasks yourself and are looking for a joiner or a company that specialises in overhauling timber windows might be able to assist.