Repair Timber Windows Tips From The Top In The Business
How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain functional, and free of swelling and rotting. Poorly maintained and treated sash windows are susceptible to rattles, sticking, and draughts.
The first step is to check for rotted areas of the window frame. If the rot is severe it might be worth looking into replacing the entire frame.
Verify the Condition
Wooden windows are an important element of a lot of homes, offering an appealing natural look and an abundance of security. However, they are susceptible to deterioration and damage, and the condition of timber windows and sashes must be regularly assessed to ensure that they continue to perform as intended.
One of the most significant problems facing window frames made of timber is 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 that it is treatable with perseverance and determination.
The first step to evaluate the condition of your wood windows is to search for signs of damage or rot like cracks or broken parts. Check the weather stripping on the windows to ensure that they are sealed properly and prevent water infiltration.
If you notice any areas of rotting It is important to check for softness. You can test this by pressing down using an instrument like a screwdriver, or your finger. Solid, healthy wood will be able to withstand this pressure. Rotting wood will easily fall apart. It's important to remember that in the event that the rot has gotten to more than 10 percent of the frame, it is better to replace it instead of making repairs.
After the damaged areas of the timber have been treated, it's now time to remove them from the wood. Start with coarse-grit paper and then move to finer grits. This will ensure that the repaired area blends seamlessly with the rest of the window. After sanding, the repaired area can be primed and then painted to ensure that the repair is invisible to the naked eye.
In some cases, if the rotting is extensive and the timber is not strong enough to be repaired, it may be necessary to install a lintel inserted above the window. It's structural support beam that carries the weight of walls over the cavities in which the frames of timber are. The lintel installation can be performed by a structural engineer and is a great way to prevent the deterioration of windows made of timber in older properties.
Take the Glass off
It is easier to deal with broken glass when you take the frame from the window. This makes the job easier. Wear gloves and a towel to shield your hands from the razor-sharp shards. If you save a few shards, then make sure you wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them carefully.
After you've removed the glass, you can check out the condition of the timber. It's a good idea employ a sponge or damp cloth to clean the frame, sash and any vents that you may have inserted into your windows. You can begin to remove the grime and dirt when there's plenty. It is essential to ensure that you don't introduce any solvents or chemicals into the frame and sash as this can cause damage.
local window repair is recommended to replace any damaged components when you see any signs of rust or corrosion on the hardware. This will improve the appearance and functionality of your window and prevent the windows from jamming and squeaking.
Also, you should ensure that the hinges are intact, that they can be moved freely, and that there is no visible water staining or visible 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.
A majority of window problems are the result of weather and moisture. Moisture uptake can cause local stress on the joint that is exposed to the gluing and result in them opening and let in moisture. This can lead to the staining of water.
Modern timbers such as Accoya or Red Grandis are more resistant to abrasion than conventional woods. It is a good idea to ask your joinery supplier which kinds of timbers they have available. It's important to get the correct timber, as different woods expand and contract at different rates, so using the wrong type of wood could cause damage and a shorter life duration for your windows made of timber.
Removing the old Putty
Wooden windows are a typical feature in older structures. They can be repaired to make them look beautiful and fulfill their purposes in letting light in, blocking out rain and insulating. If they are not maintained, timber frames can be subject to wood rot and once this occurs the integrity of the window can be compromised and a replacement might be required.
The first step is to check the condition and quality of the frame and the glazing putty. It is the material that holds the glass panes in the wooden sash. If large sections of timber are badly damaged it might not be viable to save them, but they can be connected and then treated so that the remaining part of the window can remain functional.
If you decide to go with a repair then the next step is to take the sash from the carrier and place it on a solid flat surface like an officemate. It is recommended to remove the seals and handle at this point too so that you can 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. This is applied liberally to the old putty, and let it sit for fifteen or twenty minutes before scraping with a razor blade or chisel. This process must be repeated several times to remove all of the old putty.
After removing the old putty you need to ensure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to prevent moisture penetration. This could include stripping paint with gel-type removers, or cutting off rotten wood sections and splicing them into new ones. If a splice is needed then it should be treated and painted with a sealant to avoid further damage.
After removing the old glazing putty, you can apply a new one to the window. It is best to use a good quality oil-based linseed, since it will be much easier to sand. It will also give the window a nice look. Before applying the putty it is recommended to roll a small amount out and form the "sausage" shape that is easy to apply and tidy in appearance once in position on the window frame.
Reattaching the Glass
Wooden windows are a long-term investment for your home, and should be maintained regularly. If you don't take care of them for a long time, the frames will rot and impact the structure, security, and insulation of your house. Repairing the window is often cheaper than replacing it.
If there is glass that has been damaged the sash window can be repaired by removing the damaged glass, and then filling and re-glazing the window with the correct size of the new glass. It is much easier if you can remove the window from 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 held in place with putty, or (in older timber windows) panel pins. It's important to choose materials that resemble those used when repairing an older window. This will allow the repairs blend into the existing decor and not stand out. The majority of modern caulks aren't appropriate for historic homes and should be avoided.
The new glass will not fit correctly if there are traces of putty or paint in the grooves for rabbets. Also, make sure there isn't any debris in the sash window or around the frame which could cause a leak.
You can place a piece of clear tape, or concealing tape, over the crack to keep it in place. This will also stop any water from entering the crack. If glass is at risk of separating from the sash, a solvent-based glue for glass can be used to fill in the crack and keep it in place.
If the casing and sash are in good condition and draughts are not a problem, they can be addressed through cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you're not comfortable carrying out these basic maintenance tasks yourself then a joiner or company who specialize in overhauling timber windows might be able to assist.