How to Repair Timber Windows
To ensure that the windows remain functional and free from swelling and decay they require regular maintenance. Untreated and poorly maintained sash windows are susceptible to sticking, rattling and draughts.
Look for areas that are rotten on the window frame. If the rot is severe it is worth considering replacing the whole frame.
Check the condition
Wooden windows are a crucial element of a lot of homes, offering an appealing natural look and an abundance of security. They are susceptible to damage and deterioration. The condition of timber window frames, as well as sashes should be inspected periodically to ensure they are functioning in the manner they are intended to.
Rot is one of the most frequent issues that timber window frames have to deal with. Wood is susceptible to rot due to excessive exposure to water which causes timber to soften and spongy. The good part is that the rot can be treated and the wood returned to its original form with some effort and perseverance.
To evaluate the condition of timber windows, you should first look for indications of damage, such as cracks, loose parts and even a few pieces. It's also worth checking the weather stripping on the windows to make sure that they're properly sealed and preventing water infiltration.
It is important to check for softness if you notice any signs of rotting. You can test this by pressing them down with a screwdriver, or even your fingers. A healthy, solid wood will be able to withstand this pressure, whereas the wood that is rotting will fall easily. If the rot is greater than 10%, it's best to replace the frame rather than try to fix it.
Once the damaged sections of the timber have been treated, it's now time to remove them from the wood. Start with coarse-grit paper and then move on to finer grits. This will ensure that the repaired area blends seamlessly into the remainder of the window. After sanding, the area can be primed and then painted, so that the repair will be invisible to the naked eye.
In some cases when the rotting is severe and the timber is weak enough to be repaired, it may be necessary to have an lintel installed above the window. It's structural support beam that supports the weight of walls over the cavity in which the frames of timber are. Lintel insertion is performed by a structural engineer, and is a great way to prevent the deterioration of windows made of timber in older buildings.
Take the Glass off
When a window is broken it is best to remove it from the frame and work with it, instead of working around the glass. This makes the job easier. You'll want to shield yourself from sharp glass shards by wearing gloves and using a towel to wipe out every piece of glass. If you decide to save a few pieces of glass, 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 clean your window's frame or sash, as well as any vents. If there's lots of grime and dirt, then you'll be able to get rid of it. You should avoid getting any chemicals or solvents in the frame and sash, as 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 look and function of your windows and stop them from squeaking or jamming in service.
It is also important to ensure whether the hinges are in good condition and that they move freely and that there's no visible signs of rot or water staining on the frames. If the hinges and sashes are difficult to open or close, this is typically a sign that they're worn out or are out of alignment and need to be re-adjusted.
A lot of timber window problems are caused by the weather and moisture. Moisture uptake can cause local stress at the exposed glued joint which could result in them opening up and opening up to let moisture in the frame. This could also cause 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 company what woods they can offer. It is essential to select the right type of timber since different woods expand and contract at different rates, so using the wrong type of wood could cause the damage and a shorter duration for your windows made of timber.
Removal of the old Putty
Wooden windows are a permanent feature of many older buildings and, if properly examined and repaired can be made to look beautiful and fulfill their essential functions like letting in light, keeping out rain and providing insulation. If left untreated wooden frames are susceptible to wood rot, and, once this happens, the strength of the window is damaged and a replacement could be required.
The first thing that needs to be taken care of is to examine the condition of the frame and glazing putty (the substance which holds glass panes in the wooden sash). If large sections of timber are severely damaged it might not be viable to save them, but they are often connected and then treated to ensure that the remainder of the window will remain functional.
If you decide to repair the sash, the next step is to remove it from its holder. Set it on a flat surface, similar to an employee. You might also want to remove the handle and seals in this step so that you can check them.
There are many different products that can be used to loosen and eliminate old putty, but one of the most effective 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 allowed to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before scraping it off with the help of a chisel or razor. It is usually necessary to repeat the process several times in order to completely eliminate the old putty.
After removing the old putty, you have to make sure that the frame and window are thoroughly cleaned to avoid the entry of moisture. This could include sanding down, stripping paint layers using gel type strippers or even cutting off rotten sections of timber and splicing them into new ones. If a splice needs to be made, it must first be treated with a protective paint and then painted.
After removing the old glazing putty, it's time to apply a new one to the window. A good quality Linseed oil putty is recommended since it will be easier to sand, and will give an attractive finish to the window. Before applying the putty it is recommended to roll a small amount out and form the "sausage" shape that is easy to apply and neat in appearance once in position on the frame of the window.
Reattaching the Glass
Wooden windows are a good investment and will last for many years. They should be maintained regularly. If you neglect them for too long, and the frames could decay, which can affect the structure as well as the security and insulation of your home. Repairing the window is often cheaper than replacing it.
In the case of a broken pane of glass 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. This is easier to do if you take the window out of its casing. It can then be clamped on an object with the caulked side of the window facing upwards, or inserted into a frame that has been opened and secured shut again.
The sash is secured with putty, or (in older timber windows), panel pins. When you are repairing an older window, it is important to choose materials that have a similar appearance so that the repairs don't stand out like a sore thumb. Most modern caulks are not suitable for historic homes and should be avoided.
It is also important to make sure there aren't any remnants of putty or paint left in the rabbet grooves that the glass is placed in the sash window. they will block the glass from fitting properly. Make sure there are no obstructions to the sash in the window frame. This could cause leaks.
A piece of clear tape or concealing tape may be applied over the crack to hold it in place and to stop water leakage through gaps that may develop. A solvent-based glass adhesive may also be used to fill in and keep the glass in place if it is at risk of becoming detached from the sash.
If the casing and sash are in good working order, then draughts can be addressed through cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you are not confident about tackling these basic maintenance tasks on repairing double glazed windows your own, then a joiner or company who is specialized in overhauling windows made of timber might be able to assist.