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The Reasons Why Repair Timber Windows Is Everyone's Obsession In 2023
How to Repair Timber Windows

Timber windows require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain functional, and free of swelling or decay. If sash is not properly maintained and treated, windows can suffer from rattling, sticking, and draughts.

The first step is to search for areas that are rotten on the window frame. If the rot is extensive it could be worth replacing the entire frame.

Check the condition

Wooden windows can be an attractive addition to any house. They provide a natural aesthetic as well as a superior security level. They are susceptible to damage and deterioration. The condition of timber window frames, and sashes should be inspected periodically to ensure they are functioning in the intended manner.

One of the major problems that timber window frames face is the rot. Wood rot can be caused by excessive exposure to water which causes timber to become spongy and soft. The good news is that it is possible to treat the rot and have the wood returned to its original form with a little effort and patience.

The first step in assessing the condition of your timber windows is to check for signs of rot or other damage like cracks or loose parts. It's also important to examine the weather stripping on the windows to ensure that they're properly sealed and preventing water infiltration.

It is important to check for softness in the event that you spot any signs of rotting. You can do this by pressing them down with an instrument like a screwdriver, or your finger. Healthy, solid wood will be able to withstand this pressure. Rotting wood will easily give way. If the rot is more than 10%, it's recommended to replace the frame instead of try to fix it.

After the damaged areas of the timber have been treated, it's time to sand them down. It's best to start with a sandpaper of coarse-grit and then move to finer grits until your repaired section is smooth and blends seamlessly with the remainder of the window. After sanding the area the area can be primed, then painted to hide the repair.

In certain instances where the rotting is severe and the timber is weak enough to be repaired, it could be necessary to have a lintel inserted above the window. It is a structural beam designed to support the weight of the walls over the cavities where the timber frames are. A structural engineer can put in an lintel to stop the decay and decay of older timber windows.

Take the Glass off

It's easier to deal with the broken glass when you remove the frame and window. This makes the task much easier. Wear gloves and use a towel to protect your hands from the razor-sharp shards. If you do end up saving some pieces of glass, be sure you wrap them in newspaper and dispose of them properly.

Once you've removed the glass and inspected the condition of the timber. Use an abrasive sponge or cloth to clean your window frame as well as the sash and any vents. You can begin to remove the grime and dirt in the event that there is plenty. local window repair should avoid getting any solvents or chemicals in the frame and sash, as this could cause damage.

It is best to replace 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 stop them from jamming or squeaking during use.

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

A majority of window issues are caused by the weather and moisture. Moisture uptake can cause local stress at the joint that is exposed, which can result in them opening up and let in moisture. Staining from moisture could be the result too.

Modern timbers such as Accoya or Red Grandis are more resistant to damage than standard woods. It's worth asking your joinery provider which types of kinds of timbers they have available. It's crucial to choose the right timber as different woods expand and contract at different rates, so selecting the wrong one could result in the damage and a shorter span for your new windows made of timber.

Take off the old Putty

Windows made of wood are an indisputable element of many older structures and if inspected and carefully repaired can be made to look great as well as serve their important functions such as letting in light and preventing rain from entering, as well as providing insulation. If they are not maintained the frames of timber can become susceptible to wood rot and once this occurs the strength of the window is damaged and a replacement could be required.

The first step is to examine the condition and the quality of the frame as well as the glazing putty. This is the substance that is used to hold the glass panes in the wooden sash. If large sections of timber are severely damaged, it may not be possible to save them but they are often spliced in and treated to ensure that the rest of the window remains functional.

If you decide to proceed by making repairs, the next step is to remove the sash from its holder and place it on a solid level surface, such as an officemate. It is also possible to remove the handle and seals at this point so that you can examine them.

There are a number of different products that can be used to loosen and eliminate old putty. One of the best is to use a bit of household Chlorine Bleach mixed with raw Linseed Oil. It is then applied liberally on the old putty and allowed to sit for 15 or 20 minutes before scraping with the chisel or razor blade. It is typically necessary to repeat this process several times to completely eliminate the old putty.

After removing the old putty, it is important to ensure that the window and frame are thoroughly cleaned to avoid the entry of moisture. This could include sanding, stripping paint using gel type removers or even cutting out rotten timber sections and splicing fresh ones. If a splice is required then it should be treated and coated with a protective paint in order to prevent further damage.

Once all the old putty is gone, it is now time to apply fresh glazing putty to the window. It is best to use a high-quality oil-based linseed, since it is easier for you to sand. It will also give the window a nice, smooth finish. It is a good idea to roll out a small amount of putty into the shape of a sausage before applying it to the frame of the window. This will make it easier to apply the putty, and look neater once in place.

Reattaching the Glass

Wooden windows are an investment that will last for a long time. They must be maintained regularly. If you do not take care of them for too long the frames will begin to decay and affect the structure, security and insulation of your home. But, instead of replacing the entire window, it is usually more cost-effective 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 window with the correct size of the new glass. It is much easier when you are able to take the window out of its casing. It can then be clamped on an area with the caulked-side of the window facing upwards, or placed inside a frame that's been opened and secured shut again.

The sash will be secured by putty or (typically in older timber windows) panel pins. It's important to choose materials that are similar to those used when you repair an older window. This will help the repairs blend into the existing decor and not stand out. Most modern caulks aren't appropriate for older homes and should be avoided.

It is also essential to ensure that there aren't any traces of putty or paint left in the rabbet grooves where the glass is set in the sash window; they will block the glass from fitting properly. Be sure that there is no obstructions to the sash within the window frame. This could lead to a leak.


You can place a piece of clear tape, or concealing tape, over the crack in order to keep it in place. This will also prevent any water from entering the crack. If the glass is in danger of separating from the sash, solvent-based glass glue can be used to fill the crack and hold it in the correct position.

If the sash or casing is in good working order, the problems with draughts and locked hinges, and sticky locks are usually fixed by cleaning, lubricating and painting. If you're not confident about performing these simple tasks, a professional joiner who specialises in overhauling wooden windows may be able to assist.

Read More: https://www.window-repair-wizard.co.uk/