What Repair Timber Windows Will Be Your Next Big Obsession
How to Repair Timber Windows
Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain in good working order, without swelling or rotting. If sash is not properly maintained and treated, windows can suffer from rattling, sticking, and draughts.
Check for rotted areas on the window frame. If the rot is excessive it is worth considering replacing the whole frame.
Verify the Condition
Windows made of wood are an essential element of a lot of homes, offering a natural aesthetic and a great deal of security. upvc window repairs can be susceptible to deterioration and damage. The condition of timber window frames, and sashes should be inspected frequently to ensure that they function in the manner they are intended to.
Rot is among the most common problems that window frames made of wood confront. Wood rot can be caused by excessive water exposure which can cause wood to become spongy and soft. The good news is that it is treatable with perseverance and dedication.
To evaluate the condition of windows made of timber It is important to first look for indications of damage, such as cracks and loose parts. It is also important to check the weather stripping that is on the windows to ensure they're properly sealed and prevent water infiltration.
It is important to check for softness in the event that you spot any signs of rotting. This can be done by pressing down on the wood with the help of a screwdriver or your fingers. Solid, healthy wood will be able to stand up to this pressure, while rotting wood will give way easily. It's important to remember that if the rot has spread to a greater than 10% of the frame, it's better to replace it rather than making repairs.
After the damaged portions of the timber have been treated, it's now time to sand them down. Start with coarse-grit paper and then move to finer grits. This will ensure that the repaired area blends seamlessly into the remainder of the window. After sanding it is possible to prime it and then painted to hide the repair.
In some cases if the decay has been extensive and the wood is too weak to be repaired, it might be necessary to have a lintel be installed above the windows. This is a beam that's designed to support the weight of the walls above the spaces where the timber frames are. A structural engineer can install an lintel in order to prevent deterioration and decay of older timber windows.
Take the Glass off
It is easier to deal with broken glass when you remove the frame from the window. This makes the task simpler. Wear gloves and a towel to protect your hands from the razor-sharp shards. If you decide to save some shards then wrap them in newspapers and dispose of them in a safe manner.
Once you've removed the glass you can inspect the condition of the wood. Use an abrasive sponge or cloth to clean the window frame or sash, as well as any vents. You can begin to remove the dirt and grime in the event that there is plenty. It's important to make sure that you don't release any solvents or chemicals in the frame or sash since this could cause damage.
It is recommended to replace any damaged parts if you notice any signs of corrosion or rust on the hardware. This can improve the appearance and function of your windows, and also prevent them from squeaking or jamming when in use.
Also, you should ensure that the hinges are intact and be moved freely, and that there is no visible signs of rot or water staining on the frames. If the hinges and sashes are difficult to open or close it's typically a sign that they're worn out or out of alignment, and require adjustment.
Many timber window problems are caused by weather and moisture. The uptake of moisture causes local stress in the exposed joints that are glued, which can result in them opening and allowing moisture in the frame. This can lead to moisture staining.
Fortunately, modern timbers such as Accoya and Red Grandis can withstand more damage than standard timbers which is why it's a good idea to check with the company you choose to work with to find out what timbers they offer. It is crucial to select the right type of wood since different kinds of wood expand and contract at different speeds. If you choose the wrong kind, it can cause damage and decrease the lifespan of your new windows made from timber.
Take off the old Putty
Wooden windows are a common feature in older buildings. They can be repaired to look stunning and perform their functions in letting light in, blocking out rain and insulating. Timber frames can become rotten when they are not properly maintained. When this happens, the strength of the windows is compromised, and replacement may be necessary.
The first thing that needs to be completed is to thoroughly check the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the material that holds glass panes into the wooden sash). If large portions of timber are badly damaged, it may not be viable to save them, but they are often connected and then treated so that the remaining part of the window will remain functional.
If you decide to repair the sash the next step is to take it from its carrier. Place it on a flat surface like a workmate. You may also want to remove the seals and handle at this point so that you can inspect them.
There are many products that can be mixed with linseed oil to loosen old putty. It is then applied liberally to the old putty and then left to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before scraping it with either a chisel or a razor. This process should be repeated several times to remove all of the old putty.
After you have removed the old putty, it is important to ensure that the window and frame are thoroughly cleaned to prevent moisture penetration. This could mean sanding them down or stripping paint layers using strippers that are gel-like or cutting out rotten sections of timber and splicing them into new ones. If a splice is required, then it must be treated and painted with a protective product in order to prevent further damage.
Once all of the old putty is gone, it is time to apply fresh glazing putty on the window. A good-quality Linseed oil putty is recommended because it is much easier to sand and will provide an attractive finish to the window. It is a good idea 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 cleaner once it is placed.
Reattaching the Glass
Wooden windows are a long term investment for your home and must 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. But, instead of replacing the whole window it is often more cost-effective to repair them.
In the case of glass that has been damaged the sash windows can be repaired by removing the damaged glass and then filling and re-glazing the window with the correct size of new glass. This is simpler to do if you remove the window from its casing. It can then be shackled on an object with the caulked side of the window facing upwards, or placed into a frame that has been opened and secured shut again.
The sash is secured by putty or (typically in older windows made of timber) panel pins. When repairing an old historic window it's important to use materials that have a similar appearance so that the repairs don't stand out like a sore thumb. Modern caulk products aren't suitable for older homes and should be avoided.
The new glass will not fit properly if there are traces of putty or paint in the grooves of the rabbet. Also, ensure that there is no debris in the sash window or around the frame that could cause a leak.
A piece of clear tape or concealing tape can be placed over the crack to hold it in place and stop water seepage through gaps that may create. A solvent-based glass adhesive can be used to fill and hold the glass in place when it is in danger of falling off from the sash.
If the casing and sash are in good shape and the draughts can be addressed through cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you're not confident in performing these simple tasks, a joiner who specializes in the overhauling of wooden windows could be able help.