How to Repair Timber Windows
To ensure that windows made of timber remain functional and free of swelling and rotting, they require regular maintenance. Poorly maintained and treated sash windows can suffer from rattles, sticking, and drafts.
The first step is to check for rotted areas of the window frame. If the rot is extensive it is worth considering replacing the whole frame.
Check the Condition
Wooden windows are an important part of many homes, providing an attractive natural aesthetic as well as lots of security. However, they can be susceptible to damage and deterioration and the condition of timber window frames and sashes should be regularly assessed to ensure that they are still functioning in the way they were designed to.
One of the major problems that timber window frames face is rot. The cause of wood rot is excessive exposure to water, which can cause the wood to soften and become spongy. The good part is that the decay can be treated and the wood restored to its original state with some effort and perseverance.
The first step in assessing the condition of your timber windows is to look for any indications of decay or other damage, such as cracks or loose parts. It's also worth checking the weather stripping on your windows to ensure that they're sealed properly and are preventing water infiltration.
It is crucial to check for softness if you notice any rotting. This can be done by pressing down on the wood with a screwdriver or your finger. Solid, healthy wood will be able to resist this pressure. Rotting wood will easily break down. If the rot is more than 10%, it's better to replace the frame rather than try to fix it.
After the timber sections that have been damaged have been treated and sanded, the next step. It's best to start with a coarse-grit sandpaper before moving on to finer grits until your repaired section is smooth and blends seamlessly with the rest of the window. After sanding the damaged area it is possible to prime it and then painted to hide the repair.
In some cases where the rotting is extensive and the timber is too weak to be repaired, it might be necessary to install an lintel placed above the window. This is a structural beam designed to support the wall's weight above the cavities where the frames of timber sit. A structural engineer could install an lintel in order to prevent decay and decay of old timber windows.
Take the Glass off
When a window is broken it is best to remove the frame and work with that, rather than working around the glass. This makes the task much easier. Wear gloves and use a towel to shield your hands from the sharp shards. If you choose to save some shards then wrap them in newspapers and dispose of them in a safe manner.
After removing the glass you should check the condition of the wood. Use a damp sponge or a cloth to wipe down the window frame or sash, as well as any vents. You can begin to remove the grime and dirt when there's plenty. It's important to make sure that you don't release any solvents or chemicals into the frame or sash since this could cause damage.
It is best to replace any damaged components If you observe any indications of rust or corrosion on the hardware. This will improve the appearance and performance of your window and stop the window from jamming and squeaking.
Check that the hinges and sashes are in good working order, that they are able to move freely and that there's no 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.
Many issues with windows made of timber are caused by weather and moisture. Moisture uptake causes local stress on the joints that are glued, which can lead to them opening up and allowing moisture in the frame. This can lead to the staining of moisture.
Modern timbers like Accoya or Red Grandis are more resistant to damage than traditional woods. It's worth asking your joinery supplier which kinds of timbers they have available. It is essential to select the right type of wood since different kinds of wood expand and contract at different rates. Selecting the wrong type could cause damage and reduce the life expectancy of your new windows made from timber.
Remove the old Putty
Windows made of wood are a common feature in older structures. They can be repaired to make them look beautiful and perform their functions that include letting light in, blocking out rain and providing insulation. If neglected, however the frames of timber can become susceptible to wood rot and when this happens, the strength of the window is damaged and a replacement could be required.
The first step is to determine the condition and the quality of the frame and the glazing putty. This is the material that holds the glass panes in the wooden sash. If large sections of timber are badly damaged, it may not be viable to save them, but they are often put in and treated to ensure that the remainder of the window can remain functional.
If you decide to repair the sash the next step is to take it from its copyright. Set it on a flat surface similar to an employee. It is recommended to remove the handle and seals at this point, so that you can inspect their condition.
There are many products that can be mixed with Linseed oil to break up old putty. The mixture is applied generously on the old putty and left to settle for fifteen or twenty minutes before scraping with the chisel or razor blade. It is often necessary to repeat this process several times to completely remove the old putty.
After you have removed the old putty, you'll have to thoroughly clean the frame and window to keep moisture from getting into. This may involve sanding, stripping paint using gel type removers or cutting off rotten wood sections and splicing new ones. If a splice must be made, it must first be protected with a paint, and then painted.
Once all of the old putty is removed it is now time to apply some fresh glazing putty on the window. It is recommended to use a high-quality linseed-oil putty, as it will be easier for you to sand. It also gives the window a nice look. Before applying the putty it is recommended to roll it out and create 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 neglect them for a long time the frames will begin to decay and cause damage to the structure, security, and insulation of your house. However, rather than replacing the whole window it is often more cost-effective to fix them.
In the event of a broken pane of glass the sash window can be repaired by removing the broken glass and then filling and re-glazing the window with the appropriate size of new glass. This is simpler when you are able to take the window out of its casing. It can be then pinned on an object with the caulked side of the window facing upwards or inserted inside a frame that's been opened and secured and closed.
The sash is fixed by a glue or (typically in older timber windows) panel pins. When repairing an old historic window, it is important to choose materials that are similar in appearance so that the repairs don't stick out as a sore thumb. Modern caulks aren't suitable for historical homes and should be avoided.
The new glass won't fit correctly if there are traces of paint or putty in the rabbet grooves. Also, make sure there isn't any debris in the sash window or around the frame which could cause leaks.
You can put a piece of clear tape or concealing tape over the crack in order to keep it in place. This will also prevent the water from flowing through the crack. If glass is at risk of separating from the sash, solvent-based glass glue may be used to fill the crack and hold it in place.
If the sash or casing is in good condition then the issues with draughts, locks and hinges that are sticky can usually be corrected by cleaning or lubricating the area and painting. windows repair If you're not comfortable carrying out these basic maintenance tasks yourself then a joiner or company who is specialized in overhauling windows made of timber may be able to help.