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10 Things That Everyone Doesn't Get Right About The Word "Repair Timber Windows"
How to Repair Timber Windows

To ensure that windows made of timber remain in good working order and free of swelling and decay they require regular maintenance. Poorly maintained and treated sash windows may suffer from sticking, rattling and draughts.

The first step is to look for rotted areas of the window frame. If the rot is extensive it is worth looking into replacing the entire frame.

Verify the condition

Windows made of wood are an essential component of many homes, providing a natural aesthetic and lots of security. They can be vulnerable to deterioration and damage. The condition of the timber windows, including sashes and frames should be inspected frequently to ensure that they are functioning in the manner they are intended to.

Rot is among the most frequent issues that window frames made of wood face. Wood rot can be caused by excessive water exposure which causes timber to become soft and spongy. The good part is that the it is possible to treat the rot and have the wood restored to its original state with a little effort and perseverance.

To determine the condition of timber windows It is important to first look for indications of damage, such as cracks and broken parts. It's also important to examine the weather stripping that is on the windows to ensure that they're sealed properly and are preventing water infiltration.

If you spot any rotting areas It is important to test them for suppleness. 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 withstand this pressure. The wood that is rotting will simply fall apart. If the rot is greater than 10%, it's best to replace the frame instead of try to repair it.

After the damaged sections of timber have been treated, sanding them down is the next step. It is best to begin with a sandpaper of coarse-grit before moving on to finer grits until the repaired area is smooth and blends seamlessly with the remainder of the window. After sanding the damaged area, it can be primed and then painted to make the repair appear invisible.

In some cases where the rotting is severe and the timber is too weak to be repaired, it might be necessary to have an lintel installed above the window. It's a structural support beam that helps support the weight of walls over the spaces in which timber frames are located. A structural engineer could install a lintel to prevent the decay and decay of old timber windows.

Take the Glass off

It's easier to deal with broken glass when you remove the frame from the window. This makes the task easier. window repair near and a towel to shield your hands from the shards of glass that are razor-sharp. If you decide to save a few shards then wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them with care.

After removing the glass you must examine the condition of the wood. It's recommended to use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the frame, sash and any vents you may have inserted into your windows. You can begin to get rid of the grime and dirt if there is lots. It is important to avoid putting solvents or chemicals in the frame and sash as this could cause damage.

It is recommended to replace any damaged parts If you observe any signs of corrosion or rust on the hardware. This will enhance the appearance and function of your window and prevent the windows from jamming and squeaking.

You'll also want to check that the hinges aren't damaged, that they can move freely and there's no visible rot or water staining on the frames. If the hinges or sashes are difficult to open or close, then it's usually a sign that they're damaged or out of alignment and require adjustment.

A lot of timber window issues are the result of 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. The staining of moisture can be the result too.

Fortunately, modern timbers such as Accoya and Red Grandis are able to withstand more damage than standard timbers which is why it's a good idea to check with your chosen joinery supplier to determine which type of timber they can offer. It is important to choose the right wood as different types 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 timber windows.

Remove the old Putty

Wooden windows are an irreplaceable characteristic of many older buildings and, if they are inspected and properly repaired, they will look beautiful and fulfill their essential functions like letting in light and preventing rain from entering, as well as providing good insulation. If they are not maintained wooden frames are susceptible to wood rot and, once this happens, the strength of the window can be compromised and a replacement may be required.


The first step is to check the condition and quality of the frame and the glazing putty. It is the material that is used to hold the glass panes in the wooden sash. It might not be feasible for large pieces of wood to be saved, however they can be repaired and spliced to keep the remainder of the window in good working order.

If you decide to repair the sash the next step is to take it from its carrier. Place it on a flat surface, similar to an employee. You may also want to remove the handle and seals at this time so you can check them.

There are a variety of products that can be mixed with raw Linseed oil to break up old putty. It is then applied liberally on the old putty and let it sit for about 15 or 20 minutes before scraping it off with the chisel or razor blade. This process should be repeated several times in order to remove all of the old putty.

After removing the old putty, you'll have to thoroughly clean the frame and window to stop moisture from getting into. This could mean stripping paint with gel-type removers, or cutting off rotten wood sections and splicing new ones. If a splice is required, then it must be treated and painted with a sealant in order to prevent further damage.

After removing the old glass putty, you can apply a new one to the window. A good quality Linseed oil putty is recommended because it is easier to sand, and will give an attractive finish to the window. Before applying the putty, it is a good idea to roll a small amount out and create an "sausage" shape that will be easy to apply and neat in appearance when it is placed on the window frame.

Reattaching the Glass

Wooden windows are a long-term investment for your home and should be maintained regularly. If they are neglected for too long and the frames may decay, which can affect the structure, security and insulation of your home. But, rather than replacing the whole window it is more economical to fix them.

If there is glass that has been damaged the sash window can be repaired by removing the old glass, then filling it with new glass and re-glazing the opening with the appropriate size of the new glass. It is easier to accomplish this if the window is removed from its casing it can be secured on a work surface with the caulked side of the window facing upwards, or placed into a frame for windows that has been opened and then secured closed again.

The sash is secured by putty or (typically in older windows made of timber) panel pins. It's important to choose materials that look similar when repairing an older window. This will make the repairs blend in and not be noticed. Modern caulks aren't suitable for homes with historical architecture and should be avoided.

It is also important to ensure that there aren't any traces of paint or putty left in the rabbet grooves that the glass sits in the sash windows; they will block the glass from fitting correctly. Be sure that there is no obstructions to the sash within the window frame. This could cause leaks.

A piece of clear tape or concealing tape can be applied over the crack to hold it in place and stop water seepage through a gap that might create. A solvent-based glass adhesive may also be used to fill in and keep the glass in place when it is at risk of separating from the sash.

If the sash or casing is in good condition then the problems with draughts and locks and hinges that are sticky can usually be corrected by cleaning and lubricating them, as well as painting. If you're not confident in tackling these basic maintenance tasks on your own and are looking for a joiner or company who is specialized in overhauling windows made of timber might be able to assist.

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