How to repair wooden window frames

window replacement frame repair is necessary when wooden windows are handled carelessly. The most common window frame breakage is the breakage of the bottom hinge due to placing complex objects between the sash and window companies near me. As a rule, it happens in summer during the hot weather when the windows are opened wide to ventilate the apartment, and complex objects, for example, a wooden bar, are put between the sash and the frame to keep them from slamming because of the draught. Then, in a hurry in the evening, forgetting to take out a bar, we close the window and break the bottom hinge splitting the frame.

The second common cause is the fall of the upper transom due to forgetting to fix the fanlight scissors after washing the fanlight. We turn the handle of the fanlight to open for ventilation, but the scissors holding it in place are not fixed, and it falls, breaking the lower glass pane with its handle.

The third reason to repair a window frame is when burglars break into a wooden euro window. Working with a crowbar, the burglar damages the wooden window from the outside, breaking out the strips on the frame and sometimes the hinges from the edge.

Another cause of a burglar breaking a bottom hinge out of a window frame is unscrewing the adjusting screw in the bottom hinge. Instead of adjusting the hardware, people keep slamming the balcony door until the screw unscrews to the point that when the door sash closes, it rests against the frame.

To replace the broken window sash frame with a new one, you probably will not be able to, as most manufacturers of modern wooden windows with double-glazed windows. This is because they have different processing centers for window bar profiling, and the products produced are incompatible with other manufacturers' windows. Therefore, it is necessary to repair wooden window frames with the help of a carpenter or with your own hands.

Repairing the wooden window frame with your hands after pulling out the hinge with a piece of the structure is not so difficult. It is necessary to pull out the window sash from the opening and put it horizontally, for example, on two stools to allow access to the damaged corner of the wooden window frame.

For further repair, we will need to collect all the splinters of the wooden frame and prepare a pair of carpenter's clamps and a good PVC glue for solid fixation.

We unscrew the torn hinge and put the splinters on the window sash. After determining which order to glue them in, we apply PVC glue and clamp them together for a secure hold. After the glue dries, we take the new self-tapping screws, which should be longer than the previously installed self-tapping hinge fasteners. With a drill smaller in diameter than the self-tapping screws by 1,5-2 mm, we drill holes for fastening screws. This will allow us not to splinter the newly glued window frame when attaching the hinge.

When gluing and installing the hinge, the cracks and possible splintering of the frame are ground, puttied, and then painted to match the window frame.

Wooden windows are made of natural material, so they are most preferable for those who appreciate a cozy atmosphere in the room and durability. But wooden structures, like any other, require periodic inspection of frames for defects. The sooner a flaw is detected, the easier it will be to fix.

One of the most frequent problems is the gap between the frame and the frame, as a result of poor sealing of the sashes in the box gates, which leads to leak tightness and constant draughts in the room. This problem can be eliminated with the help of a rubber or PVC gasket installed in the hemispheres.

It is possible to eliminate the defect without the use of a seal. However, if the gap is the length of the sash, it is necessary to bend the hinges; if the flaw occurs in one place, you should turn only one hinge in the gap area.

Tight closing of the window frame - one of the most popular defects - warping, then the sashes begin to close too tightly or do not close at all. If such a problem occurs, the first thing to do is to check the hinges for settling. If this happens, you can solve the problem by installing the hinges in a new place or putting a wire on the hinge pins so that you can adjust the height of the sashes. Skewing can also occur due to deformation of the frame due to wood swelling. The problem can be solved by removing excess material with a planer and a transparent edge fit to the box. If it is impossible to determine the pinch's location, you need to stretch between the box and the frame copy paper; the area where the dent appears should be planned. Finally, the frame may not close properly due to a thick layer of paint, which should be peeled off with sandpaper.

Skewed binding occurs due to the loosening of corner joints. To eliminate this defect, you can use several methods. The simplest is to install metal corners, which should be installed on the corners of the sash. To fix the corners to the frame will need to make a recess; the corners should be placed so that they are below the surface of the structure. Mount the corner with screws. The installation area must be puttied and sanded with sandpaper.

Rotting can damage entire areas of wood. Although this process is challenging to stop, it is recommended to perform a replacement. First, use a chisel to remove the deformed part, with a slight grip on the healthy area to avoid the spread of rot. The resulting site is treated with epoxy, and a fresh piece of wood prepared in advance is attached. After the material has cured, the area is sanded.

The paint coating needs to be restored over time, but remember that applying a new coat over a peeling one is not an excellent way to clean up your windows. This can lead to premature rotting of the wood. Therefore, you should only remove the old paint layer and apply a new coat. In addition, removing the windows from the hinges, the glass, and all metal structures is recommended to reduce labor intensity and increase the work's speed.

Perform the removal of the paint coating can be performed with a construction hair dryer or blowtorch. Although the layer of paint will swell under the influence of high temperature and easily come away from the wood, it can be easily removed with a spatula. The same result can be achieved by applying a special paint remover. Both options allow you to remove the old paint coating quickly. But all actions should be performed in the open air since paint removal is accompanied by the emission of harmful gases that can negatively affect your health. If this option is unavailable, you can use the mechanical method of paint removal using spatulas or metal brushes. This option is excellent if the layer of paint is so old that it comes off on its own.

After thoroughly stripping and removing the paint, it is advisable to remove any irregularities in the wood surface and perform puttying and sanding with sandpaper. The next step is to apply a primer in two layers, and only after all these procedures can you start painting. For the result to be effective, two coats of paint should be used. The first coat is applied using a diluted paint composition and solvent, and the resulting piece will ensure that the subsequent even layer is applied. The best result can be achieved if a paint gun is used for painting. When applying paint by hand, you should choose a sturdy brush, but you should be aware that in this case, there may be some lapping and uneven application of layers. However, when painting frames by hand, the result is more accurate.

Thus, by observing the simple rules, you can repair wooden windows without outside help, saving money and getting a good result. In addition, timely elimination of defects in the frames and control over the paint coating condition will prolong the service life and delay the installation of new double-glazed windows.

Wooden windows should care for every few years. The longevity and aesthetics of wooden windows are determined by the way the surface finish of the elements. Modern windows have a smooth surface and rounded edges (this increases the durability of the paint coating). Today, the palette of colors of wooden window frames has a good variety. Currently produced windows after impregnation are painted with acrylic paints (water-soluble) or varnishes.

Varnishes are of two kinds: covering and translucent (changing the color of the wood but not covering its natural pattern). Two-tone finishes are also possible: different colors for the outer and inner surfaces.

Care of wooden frames

Wooden window frames are protected with lacquer coatings, but over the years, the lacquer deteriorates and cracks. If damage occurs, it is necessary to repair the structures. Although basic window protection procedures can be done by yourself, more extensive repairs should be entrusted to professionals.

Window manufacturers and their distributors have service groups that offer this type of service. The scope of work always depends on the condition of the windows, so before ordering the repair of wooden windows, they should be inspected. The price of the service also depends on this.

Window exterior repairs include:

• Removing old paint or varnish.

• Sanding the frame.

• Puttying small cavities.

• Varnishing (6-7 coats).

• Replacing gaskets and silicone along the bottom edge of the glazing.

This service will cost the customer about 3 thousand rubles per square meter of the window.

To avoid the need for significant repairs to wooden windows, it is better to check them regularly and make minor repairs. It is worth planning a comprehensive restoration of wooden windows when it is warm and dry, preferably for at least a few days, so that the wooden elements can dry well.

Washing and cleaning of wooden windows

 

The condition of the windows should be checked in the fall and spring. If wooden windows are filthy, you can use only water to clean the windows and frames for the first time and moisture with a mild detergent for the next time. To wash wooden windows, you should not use cleaning agents with abrasive substances, sharp scratching brushes, or aggressive chemicals containing, for example, ammonia. This can cause permanent damage to the lacquer coating.

Wooden window frames should be cleaned at least once a year (preferably before winter) with window cleaner's milk or wood paste, which will refresh the coating and close invisible micro-cracks, preventing moisture penetration.

The most vulnerable to cracks in the paint coating are joints of horizontal and vertical elements of the frame, as well as the corners of the bars. If there are minor defects, it will be necessary to sand with fine sandpaper and touch-up paint or paint as close to the color as possible. Some manufacturers produce repair kits for the maintenance of wooden windows, which include a small container of varnish, a few brushes, and sandpaper of different varieties.

 It is imperative to check the condition of the gaskets. Seals covered with mold or dirt should be cleaned, cracked parts removed, and replaced with new ones. Washed gaskets can be preserved with glycerin, silicone grease, or technical Vaseline.

Sometimes resin may appear on the wood. To remove it, turpentine or gasoline, for example, is used, after which the affected area is washed with warm water. It is also necessary to wipe the metal elements, such as latches, locks, and fittings, with a hard lubricant, such as technical Vaseline.

You should always check whether a wooden window opens and closes properly. If the sash is loose, it is a sign that the hinges need adjustment. If the hardware resists turning the handle, then lubrication is required. The easiest way is to use sprays or liquid products such as silicone grease.

A simple test will show if the hardware and hinges need adjustment. When the window is closed, a piece of paper is inserted between the sash and frame. If it can be easily pulled out when the window is closed, it does not close entirely and needs to be adjusted.

Painting Wooden Windows

 

If the paint coating is slightly faded or scratched, it is enough to rub the surface with fantastic sandpaper so that it becomes a little rough and sticky.

Then you need to clean the base of dust with a damp rag; after drying, apply two coats of paint in the paint color the frame was painted. Wooden windows should always be painted according to the texture. To do this, a small amount of product is applied with a brush or roller to avoid stains, which may be especially noticeable at the edges. Usually, two coats of new paint or glaze are applied.

Wooden Window Coatings

 

Wooden windows are covered with opaque paints (enamels) or glazes. Opaque colors create a matte or glossy coating that completely protects the wood structure.

If the elements of wooden window frames are badly damaged, requiring new wood inserts or puttying, it is best to paint them with enamel because the repair will not work. Wooden window manufacturers often use enamel. Unfortunately, it may happen that it will be discovered only after removing the old paint, so repainting wooden windows with glaze are impossible.

The coating of glaze or stain is transparent, and the structure of the wood can be seen through it. For this reason, they are only suitable for painting wooden window frames without significant repairs. They can also be used when filling minor defects with a compound with wood fibers, perfectly matched in structure and color to the window's appearance. Stains are obtained matte, satin, while lacquers give a glossy appearance.

Knowing the windows' manufacturer and the color coating's name makes it easy to get information about what kind of paint or glaze was covered with wooden windows. Then, when you buy this product, it will be easy to make minor repairs that will not be noticeable. This is also important because the interior coating remains in good condition even after many years of use, so only the exterior wooden windows are often repainted. To paint wood, it is best to use acrylic or natural bristle brushes or a velour-coated roller (like flock). You should not use a sponge roller.

Repairing and painting old wooden windows

If it is necessary to remove the old coating, replace gaskets, etc., you should remove the sheets from the frame. If wooden windows are placed on a table or stakes, it will be much more comfortable to work. In old wooden windows, removing the exterior trim and hinges and removing the glazing caulk may be necessary.

The old coating is removed when it has faded, discolored, cracked, peeled, or has a significant loss. This is done with coarse sandpaper by hand or with an orbital sander. The tools should be guided along the fibers of the wood. If the old paint or glaze is badly cracked, you can first remove it with a scraper. Next, use a heat gun to remove tightly adhering fragments. The warm air softens and loosens the paint or varnish, which can then be scraped off.

When the wood surface is cleaned, it should be sanded with fantastic sandpaper and dusted to get the smoothest surface possible for a new paint job. A set of sanding sheets to remove old coatings should consist of products graded, for example, 80 (thickest), 120 (medium), and 240 (thinnest).

After the untreated wood has been exposed, its condition can be evaluated. Severely cracked pieces of material should be checked more carefully. This is best done with a nail. If it quickly penetrates the wood, then the fragment must be replaced. Small pieces can be filled with inserts of wood of the same species. The defect should be well finished so that the insert has the proper shape, for example, rectangular or round.

Scratches and cracks, holes, for example, left over from the removed hinge, should be filled with wood putty. These can be purchased in conjunction with wood dust, available in several colors corresponding to the popular wood species. If the wood window is to be painted with a clear varnish or clear glaze, the putty should be chosen as carefully as possible. Liquid putties are also a good solution.

Depending on the manufacturer's recommendations for paint or wood glaze (stain), you may need to apply a primer first. Then the first coat of varnish is painted. Two coats are sufficient to cover the wood. However, an excellent visual, solid, and durable coating can be obtained by applying the paint or glaze 3 or 4 times, but in as thin a layer as possible. Remember that after each coat has dried, it should be carefully matted with the finest sandpaper, powdered, and repainted. The break for drying the coating should be at least 2-4 hours, so if you plan to apply only two layers, the painting will end in 1 day; if there are more layers, the work will continue the next day.

Signs that it is time to repair wooden windows:

• blowing from the opening;

• gaps have formed;

• sashes are tilted or sagging;

• glass is broken or cracked;

• some areas are rotten.

Sometimes home repairs are not enough. For example, suppose the frame has begun to crumble. In that case, the bindings between the panes of glass cannot withstand the pressure, and the geometry of the opening is severely distorted; it will be necessary to replace the window completely. In such a situation, wasting time on its cleaning, staining, and sealing is pointless.

Types

Repair of wood windows is often referred to as restoration. The difference between these concepts is slight: the purpose of the work performed is to restore the functional qualities of the structure. The main difference between the two is in the painting: updating the color of the frames is considered a purely vital task.

Cosmetic

This includes eliminating local damages - removing fungus on a specific part of the window frame, closing gaps, or replacing windows. It is considered a major overhaul if you have to make a significant repair.

Overhaul

Consists of these works:

• identifying the damaged area;

• removal of rotten wood;

• drying the prepared area;

• lubrication with a preservative or a special hardener for wooden surfaces;

• puttying in one or more layers;

• painting the frame.

Repairs should preferably be done in the warm season. Humidity must be low: it affects the drying speed of wood drying and curing paint materials.

What you need for repair

For the restoration of a wooden window, a standard set of tools of the home craftsman is enough. The costs of purchasing materials depend on the condition of the frame. Therefore, special skills for the repair work will not be required.

Materials

You will need:

• sealant;

• sealant;

• varnish;

• putty;

• paint or enamel.

When purchasing, it is vital to buy three types of putty. First, the coarse-grained composition will be needed for processing wide cracks and fixing significant defects. It is necessary to buy a special compound for woodworking: it is suitable for restoring windows and doors.

You will need a fine-grained finishing putty for interior work for small cracks. The compound left over from the renovation of the room will do. It is essential to pay attention to the choice of color: it is better if it coincides with the color of the finish. The best choice for white windows is putty white (rather than the widespread beige) color.

High-quality performance of repair is impossible without a wood primer. It will improve the bond between the paint coating and the primer. When buying, you should make sure that all materials are compatible.

Tools

Basic set:

• trowel;

• drill bit 8-10 mm;

• sandpaper;

• level;

• grinder;

• carpenter's angle;

• a jigsaw - a planer for rebate stripping;

• hand jigsaw or a scrap jigsaw blade;

• chisel (better - several);

• brushes.

You will also need a construction hair dryer to remove old paint. It can be used to remove paint residue without damaging the wood quickly. A cobbler knife or a palette knife may be an excellent way to remove loose layers of paint.

If the repair includes replacing glass or fittings, it is necessary to prepare the required elements.

Order of execution

Work begins with thoroughly inspecting the window construction and identifying defects. Then, for convenience, the frame is removed from the box, and check the fasteners' reliability. Finally, the presence of distortions is determined with the help of the level.

During disassembly:

1. Remove the sashes, remove the layer of old caulk and carefully remove the glass.

2. Remove the metal hardware. Inspect for the need for replacement.

3. Drainage profiles, or tear bars, are detached from the main structure.

4. Remove corroded nails and other metal parts.

Frame and sashes are placed on a flat surface. Then, with the help of tools, level it, eliminating misalignments. The quality of the work is controlled with a square, as well as by checking the diagonals of the sashes - they must be equal. Next, bevels and grooves of the joints to be smeared with glue, and corrected parts to be strengthened with nails.

Sashes are aligned not only inside but also on the outside. Then put together, aligning the length and width relative to each other. If, after aligning, the sashes were smaller than the seating opening in the frame, it is necessary to install thin strips of plywood with "liquid nails." When the glue hardens, it is required to construct notches for the window fittings, working with a chisel. Finally, the nails are fastened with small nails at a distance of 10-15 cm.

Next, check the condition of the dowels. If there are no defects, they are drilled with a drill with a diameter more extensive than the previous one. If there are defects, dowel impregnated with a few drops of super glue, wait until it dries, drilled a new hole, and re-saw the old one. Finally, the dowel is replaced for a reliable connection, so its fibers are across the wood fibers.

Then proceed to remove the old paint coating. Open areas are removed mechanically, wielding a fine spatula, sandpaper, and grinders. In hard-to-reach areas, the surface is cleaned with tools.

The chemical cleaning method is based on using unique compounds to remove paint. They are available in gel form. The preparation mustn't contain acid solutions; otherwise, it can react chemically with the wood. The product is applied with a brush to the prepared surface with a layer thickness of up to 2-3 mm and waited for about half an hour. After that, the old paint remains to soften and can be quickly removed with a spatula.

The most reliable method of stripping is with a construction hair dryer. It is used to heat the paint and remove it quickly. The technique is also good because it is safe for window panes.

When the surface is prepared, you need to level it. Scratches, defects, or damages are filled with a special putty for wood. The composition is applied with a trowel with a rubber tip, tightly laying a layer no thicker than 4 mm. To seal large cavities, put putty in several layers, each time waiting for the drying of the previous one.

Before painting, the surface of the wood should be sanded with sandpaper. A small piece of material has processed all characters, including corners. Dust is swept away; wash the window and wait until it is scorched.

It is impregnated with olive oil or a more modern analog to protect the wood from destruction. The product is applied with a special brush. Only the first coat is used as impregnation, and subsequent coats are finish coats. It is necessary to wait for the olive to be absorbed and the window surface to stop being sticky.

The final step is to paint the window. For this purpose, special wood paints or transparent varnish are used. The first option is preferable, as it hides all the defects better. Next, the color is applied, covering about 1 mm of glass, preventing water penetration between the glass and the putty.

Wood is quite easily repaired with the most straightforward set of tools; the coating with simple paints' unique wooden surface, as a rule, makes it very easy to change the color of the window. So it turns out that the care of the current wooden windows is straightforward. But in our climate, the windows (mainly the lower part of their sashes and frames) are often damaged: sometimes the paint peels off, and the wood rotates. Therefore, window elements must be repaired, painted, restored, or replaced with new ones.

Attention Window construction is a complex mechanism, so it is better to entrust the repair of wooden windows to professionals!

Sometimes gaps are formed in such window openings. as a rule, it happens for two reasons: either the hinges have settled, or some parts of the window frame are slightly warped, and therefore they do not adjoin smoothly to the edge. In such cases, the hinges should be put in a new place on the wooden frame, the window sashes should be taken off, and a small piece of wire should be twisted on the hinge pins. This will primarily allow you to adjust the height of the window sashes.

In the second case, when the difference in the suspension is relatively tiny, the lowered hinges do not have much effect on it at all, and the defect itself is caused by a minor deformation of the wooden frame; it is enough with a simple planer to work it up and drive it to the box. But first, you need to find the very place of the pinch. To do this, take a small strip of plain copy paper and, several times opening and closing the wooden frame, alternately put the form in different places. The marks on the wood will indicate where you need to check a small piece of a wood planer. Sometimes the cause of pinching is a very thick layer of oil paint. It just needs to be peeled off. The frame then does not "stick"; it must be rubbed with dry soap.

A completely loose window sash needs to be re-glued. To do this, it is required to remove it from its hinges and, carefully knocking out the dowels, disassemble it into parts. The places of these joints are thoroughly cleaned from dirt and glue.

After that, reassemble the binding, glue with a special carpentry glue, and install new dowels. Moreover, if the studs are very loose in their holes, they must be wrapped with a jute cloth, which is impregnated with glue. You can use square dowels: in this case, they will also not fall out. Parts are connected.

New binding parts are made of dry wood exclusively according to the dimensions and the old profile. It is necessary to fit the studs and tightly connect the elements. Before painting, sills must be primed with hot oil and dry for two days. It happens that the window sill a little water leakage. This trouble happens because of the wrong device low tide, which leads to misting the wall. With a slight loosening of the wooden sill bindings, loosened construction can be strengthened with metal corners and sold freely in construction stores. When reinforcing various large and quite heavy frames, such corners should be deepened into the wood for greater strength.

Typically, the service life of window caulk, prepared on natural olive and dry chalk, is not less than a decade, but the caulk should be checked periodically (3-4 years). Where it cracked, remove chips with a knife with a slightly blunt end, then masticate the place with regular but fresh putty.

If the putty has dried up and moved away a little from the glass itself but retained its strength, it is quite possible not to change it. But it is necessary to take extraordinary measures to ensure that moisture that runs down the glass could not get inside without causing the frame's wood to rot. To do this, with a skinny brush, run a simple oil paint in all existing cracks so that this does not leave a single go. Or prepare a little new putty, a little more liquid, and carefully rub it with a small spatula into the various cracks and crevices. When it has dried a little, apply a new coat of paint, just a little over the edge of the glass, to seal the joints as best as possible. When shrinkage, the wood on the side of the hinge covers are usually hammered laths made of dry wood, which should undoubtedly be at least a centimeter thick; reinforce them with simple screws or nails. If you need a thinner slat, it is better to get a tiny part of the strapping, but put the slat of this thickness.

If you see cracking or decay of parts of the binding at the hinges, locks, and bolts, the damaged area must be cut out and replaced by another piece of wood. To do that, use a chisel to mark the size of the damage on the binding. So we see that the work is not complicated and quite feasible.

Many owners of houses and apartments try to make their houses as environmentally friendly as possible. For the same reason, they do not seek to replace wooden windows with plastic ones but prefer to restore them, that is, to make repairs to the old wooden windows.

The advantages of wooden windows:

• the naturalness of wood;

• wood is hygroscopic, i.e., does not interfere with air exchange in the house;

• low thermal conductivity allows you to save heat;

• The long service life of timber with proper care;

• aesthetic appearance. Wooden windows can fit into a variety of interiors.

All of this speaks in favor of wood window restoration.

But, when do windows need renovation or repair?

First, when it starts to blow from the window opening;

Second, the window's appearance is lost due to frame deformation, the formation of fungus, or damage to wood or one of the nodes (window fittings).

How to repair a wooden window with your own hands?

To begin with, let's deal with the definition: window repair or restoration - these are similar works, which are not fundamentally different, consist of clearing, puttying, painting, sealing, and insulating windows. Painting the windows for the repair work does not apply more to the restoration work because the functional quality of wooden windows has no effect. It only changes the appearance.

The degree of window wear (frames, glass, and fittings) will differ in the approach to repair work.

Repairing wooden windows is simple enough but requires strict performance at each stage of the work.

Cosmetic repair of wooden windows

Elimination of localized damage. For example, fungus damage to a part of the window frame.

• Detecting the area of damage. To do this, you can conduct a small test: with an awl, you need to push through decrepit or suspicious areas of the frame; if the point falls through quickly, then the wood is damaged;

• cutting off the unsuitable layer;

• The cleaned area is dried. To do this, you can use a construction hair dryer or a heater (be careful with the glass, direct the flow of air directly to the wood);

• applying wood hardener and wood preservative;

• You are applying the filler. Layer thickness - according to the instructions. If you need to use several layers, you need to wait until the first one dries well;

• I was painting the window.

Overhaul of a wooden window - complete restoration

Tools and materials:

1. A hair dryer to remove the paint. Referring to the reviews of artisans, we note that many people try to remove the stain without it, but it only more damage the wood;

2. Grinder and sandpaper. For leveling the surface;

3. shoemaker knife for removing old paint

4. Spatula. Renovation of wooden windows involves mandatory puttying on the surface of the frame and sashes;

5. paint and varnish brushes;

6. chisels;

7. hardware, glass (if replacement is expected);

8. varnish, lacquer, and paint;

9. putty;

10. primer;

11. Sealant.

The cost of repairing wooden windows depends on the price of supplies, tools, and of course, the condition of the frames. On the other hand, window restoration with your own hands does not require any special skills. However, it should be noted that this work in one day is not done.

A few words about preparation: it is better to perform the work on a warm, sunny day. The primary condition - is dryness because high humidity will have a detrimental effect on the result (the wood changes geometry, dries badly, etc.).

Wooden window dismantling

We remove the window sashes from the overhangs. If the glass is seated on the putty - remove it with a chisel; if on glazing beads (glass rail), carefully dismantle them. After that, take out the glass.

All fittings are removed (better to replace with new ones). You also need to remove the wooden drip moldings on the windows (wooden strips located on the bottom of the frame outside the window, also called "teardrop"). They are attached to the nails, which are probably already rotted. Finally, all the self-tapping screws, nails, metal corners, etc., are removed from the frames.

"Naked" frame put on a flat surface and measure - all the diagonals must be the same length; otherwise, the skew in some places will form gaps, which is unacceptable. Next, we fasten the frame tightly to the surface (it can be a board).

Next, we check the condition and location of the window dowels; as a rule, the corners of the frame have connections to the wood dowels. As a consequence (before painting and sanding), they will need to be replaced with new ones.

Window dowels can be knocked out with a hammer (cone-shaped, so knock out should be on the thin side), provided they are evenly located (symmetrical to the corner) and succumb. But, under pressure decrepit frame can be deformed, so it is better to drill out. If the dowel is loose, you can fix it before drilling - a couple of drops of superglue in the gap, and after 5 minutes, the drill will go like solid wood.

In the next step, when the window is disassembled, we proceed to the cleaning of the paint.

How to remove paint from wooden windows

There are several ways to clean paint off windows.

Remove paint with a construction hair dryer.

Work carefully, ideally removing the glass or directing the hot air flow to avoid direct contact with the glass. The high temperature can cause the glass to break (crack and fall out).

Set the temperature mode on the hair dryer to 250 degrees.

The task is not to remove the paint quickly but qualitatively. At higher temperatures, the wood will char and, as a result of the burn, will lose its properties.

The paint will rise in bubbles during heating, which must be peeled off with the right tool.

It is better to do it with a shoemaker knife (a palette knife for mixing paints in painting is also suitable). The spatula will slip over the color or cut into the wood, leaving burrs.

Paint Remover with Chemical Remedies

Remove old paint from the window frame with unique solutions (rinses, liquids). Also, use the "tricky method" - kerosene and a plastic bag. It is kerosene, as solvents and solvents destroy the structure of the wood.

The technology of performance

• The wooden frame should be wrapped with cloth (rags), and the whole structure should be placed in a plastic bag.

• Soak the fabric abundantly with kerosene, tie the bag and leave it for a day or two. During this time, the paint should soften and be easy to remove (for cleaning, use the above tool).

Tip: Take the strips out of the bag gradually, i.e., one removed - cleaned, etc.; if you remove all at once - kerosene will evaporate (dry out); therefore, the paint layer will return to its original state (dried, hardened) and will cease to detach.

Of course, such a large package for a whole window frame may not be found, so you must separate the frame into elements. Or, as an option for treating the frame as a whole, you can moisten a cloth and wrap it tightly with polyethylene film, tying the layers with a rope to seal the treated surface as much as possible.

Tip: note, the removal of paint from windows in this way is accompanied by a pungent smell, plus, the technique is fire hazardous, so perform it must be outdoors or on the balcony.

Fixing the deformation of the wooden window

Sometimes old wooden windows are deformed, manifesting as warps and distortions of the frame. For example, one or more sashes of the window are warped. This will be especially noticeable when installing the stack when it lies in the selected groove, and the glass weighs on the corners or vice versa; the corners lie down, and in the middle, a gap.

If the window is removed and disassembled, you can put it under the press, which is made of wooden boards and a weighting agent.

If on the installed window, you can in the place of a bend (curvature), you can insert a stop (bar, bar suitable size), and apply force to close the window, securing the bars or come up with fastening screws (for example, a bar on the diagonal to screw to the frame). All these manipulations are performed without glass.

In this condition, leave it for 2-3 days, and then increase the thickness of the strut, and thus bring it to the desired position.

The method is controversial, but sometimes it helps. For example, you may see some cracks, which can be repaired. First, take a standard syringe to pump PVA glue into the gap. Since the glue is liquid, it will flow out, and the place should be sealed with tape. After drying, repeat the procedure, and then clean up, putty, and paint everything.

Restoration of wooden windows - the restoration of rotten sections of the frame

If a fragment of the frame rotted, it could be replaced or restored. If replacement is not foreseen, then restoration remains. You will need epoxy putty for wood (the composition can include fiberglass, which will significantly increase the rigidity of the structure).

The damaged area is cleaned of paint, and the trash is removed. Next, putty is applied.

Mixed putty is applied to the damaged area, and the mixture should fill all cracks and crevices well. Next, we recreate the missing space so that it was a little more than the desired plane, i.e., there should be a volume for subsequent sanding. Drying (hardening) putty takes a day (at room temperature). Then, using a grinder or sandpaper fixed on a block, grind the surface to complete smoothing.

It should be understood that such restoration restores the appearance but does not guarantee a sufficient density, especially in places of active use (the sites of dense connection of the window sash). But if the window is deaf or rarely used, it is quite a self-sufficient way out of the situation without completely replacing the window or frame elements.

Repair of wooden windows - replacing part of the frame

• inspection of the frame for damage;

• mark the damaged area with dots;

• sawing out the site;

• replacement preparation;

• Replacement. The prepared part of the frame is placed in the right place, fixed with glue, and clamped with clamps. After 24 hours, the clamps are removed;

• Grinding the joints of the old frame and the replacement. This will avoid height differences;

• primer treatment;

After cleaning the frame of paint, you need to putty it.

Putty for windows is sold as a ready-made product; simultaneously, you can make it yourself. Three parts of sawdust are mixed with one piece of liquid nails.

The technology is simple, but the mortar dries quickly, so mix swiftly and in small portions.

Knead it - putty, etc.

Based on homemade putty glue, it hardens quickly.

Dried and tight surface grind with a machine or fine sandpaper (emery).

Before you decide to restore wooden window frames, make sure that they are subject to such work. Their condition can be quickly assessed by looking for holes left by insect pests, cracks in the wood, and the frame and sash threading.

You should ensure that they have not disintegrated and, most importantly - not distorted. To do this, you can use a chisel and hammer. Then, with a light touch, you can check to see if the wood has decayed and if there is rot or damage from insect pests.

The benefits of wood window restoration:

• you can keep your home environmentally friendly;

• the rooms will always have an optimal comfortable microclimate;

• Wooden windows are often the main attraction of many homes, and restoration will allow you to use modern methods and materials to keep their appearance intact.

• Significant cost savings.

The primary defects and ways to fix them

During the operation of wooden window designs, their owners often have to deal with the following problems:

1. A gap between the frame and the window frame.

2. Problems with the surface coating.

3. Skewed window sashes.

4. Part of the sash or frame is rotting.

5. Sashes closed tightly.

Defect 1: Insufficient sealing is one of the most acute problems. Such gaps are formed because wood is a material that easily yields deformations. In this case, the need to restore old wooden windows is due to constant draughts.

But it is easy enough to fix this problem. It is only necessary to install an additional seal.

Defect 2. Repairing old wooden windows will also be required in the case of a stain or cracked paint deterioration. After a few years, the color on such constructions loses its original properties, regardless of its quality and price. It will be sufficient to refresh the paint simply to restore the window.

Defect 3. A topical problem, especially when it comes to solid board frames. The main reason for warping is the properties of wood to deformation under the influence of moisture or direct sunlight. Such distortion can be eliminated by adjusting the fittings. If there is no such possibility due to the technical peculiarities of the selected details, it would be necessary to change the hinges.

Defect 4. This is the most complex defect of wood, which cannot be eliminated. In the case of rotting, it will be necessary to change the window construction completely.

Defect 5. Quite a common problem during the operation of old wooden windows. To return their ability to close normally again, then first, it is worth checking whether the construction as a whole has not shrunk. If so, it is sufficient to adjust the sashes' height.

Repairing old wooden windows: preparatory actions

To reduce the work associated with repairing old wooden window frames, it is necessary to maintain their condition by regularly treating them with special preparations.

Sometimes, the owners do not pay attention to this, and after a few years, it turns out that the windows are only suitable for replacement. Therefore, it is worth considering whether it is possible to find hardwood under a layer of old oil paint and with less effort and financial investment to extend the life of such structures.

The sash should be removed from its hinges and placed firmly on prepared supports before the repair begins. Around the window, it is worth putting, for example, a foil to protect neighboring objects from contamination. Then, ideally, just remove the glass.

New paint cannot be applied over old coats. Therefore, it is better to remove them but observe the safety of the workplace because every carelessness can damage the glass.

Before you can repair old wooden windows, you will need to remove the old putty or sealing material that connects the glass to the window frame. Such elements are now made of more durable and aesthetic materials than a few years ago.

It is best to use acrylic. It is carefully applied to a surface cleaning of grease and dust, preferably with a finger moistened with water. Before applying paint, care should be taken to protect the window hardware from contamination.

Restoration old window frames should be combined with repairing or replacing hinges and fasteners. A correct fit will ensure stability and tightness of the windows. The hinges are replaced with new ones, or only their fastening elements, bolts, and screws are replaced. Rods should be treated with oil or undergo special preparation recommended by the windows manufacturers.

What is needed to repair windows with your own hands

To properly restore wooden windows with your own hands, you will need the following materials and tools:

• Paint stripper. This machine helps you remove the paint without damaging the surface of the frame;

• sanding machine;

• sandpaper;

• shoemaker knife, which easily removes stale paint;

• spatula, since the repair of wooden window frames, involves mandatory puttying to update the surface of the structure and sashes;

• paint brushes;

• chisels;

• fittings, glass (this is in the case if you plan to change these elements);

• varnish, paint, varnish;

• primer;

• putty;

• Sealant.

It is essential to pay a little more attention to the choice of putty. You will need three types of putty for the work:

1. Coarse-grained putty for window frames with wooden surfaces. It will be used to seal large cracks and other defects. The material is often used during the restoration of wooden doors.

2. Fine-grained finish. Most often, the product is used to finish the interior of the premises. But it is also excellent for working with wood. The only point to keep in mind is the intelligent choice of color. The best option is white. It is better than beige and hides the defects that have been fixed in the future.

3. Primer of deep penetration. The material is necessary to achieve a better combination of paint and putty.

Window repair with your own hands: procedure

Repair of old wooden windows consists of several consecutive steps. Let's consider them in more detail.

Step 1: Removing the old paint

This can be done in three ways:

• mechanical;

• thermal;

• chemical.

Layered or cracked paint films are not a suitable substrate for a new coat, so the first step is to remove them. The easiest way to do it ourselves is to remove the old coating with a spatula. However, this requires the use of unique paint removal products.

Paint removal products can be found in every chemistry store. They are usually in the form of gel preparations, which are applied with a brush to the refurbished surface up to 2-3 mm thick.

The agent should remain on the surface for up to 30 minutes, depending on the number of layers of the old coating that must be removed. After a short interval, the product layer softens and can easily be removed with a spatula.

Step 2: Smoothing the wood surface

What happens when there are defects? Old windows may have deep scratches, blemishes, or even damage on the frame. Before painting, they need to be filled with unique wood putty. To apply the putty, use a special trowel with a rubber tip.

The mass is laid tightly in one layer. It should not be thicker than 4 mm. Therefore, if the cavity is more significant, in some cases, you will need more layers, which are applied after the hardening of the previous one.

Step 3: Sanding the surface

The next step is necessary to get a smooth surface for painting. Use sandpaper to sand the surface.

When the surface is smooth, it is thoroughly cleaned of dust, washed, and left to dry completely.

Step 4: Impregnating with olive oil

This is a rather old method but very effective. Although finding natural olive in the construction materials market is challenging today, the technology is still relevant.

Manufacturers offer a product from various synthetic derivatives, not from hemp and linseed oil, as in the old days. Olive has been superseded by good quality impregnations, the production of which is much more profitable.

To cover the surface of wooden window construction, you will need a special brush. The first layer is laid as impregnation, and the next two - are finished. Before continuing the work, you should ensure the surface is not sticky.

Step 5: Painting

What paint to paint the window frames with? To preserve the pattern of wood fibers, varnish should be used. It is available in many colors and natural wood, and the surface gives a gentle sheen.

But for window frame repair, the best coating is still paints, which will mask irregularities. Wood emulsions are available in many colors.

I remembered that the paint should cover about 1 mm of glass. This way, a protective layer is formed to prevent water penetration between the glass and the putty.

How to extend the service life?

If properly and regularly maintained, this positively affects the condition and significantly extends the life and durability of the preserved object. This applies to cars, clothing, televisions, and windows.

Modern wooden windows in the factories of the manufacturer are treated with products that protect them from the harmful effects of external factors (sun, rain, air pollution). Therefore, repair of wooden euro windows, and more precisely the paint coating, is recommended every 3 to 5 years - depending on the coating used (paint or varnish).

Thus, it would help if you remembered not to spray the same products on the window frames and glass during cleaning. Any residue, even the smallest, should be removed from the shelf - rinse with water and wipe dry.

To prolong the life of the paint and keep its aesthetic appeal longer, it is good to use additional care products after washing the frame. They are applied to a cleaned and dried frame with a soft cloth or absorbent cotton. Do not use such products in bright sunlight or on a hot surface. The optimum temperature is 10-25°C.

Repairing minor damage

Stan coverage should be checked regularly - at least twice a year (in spring and autumn), paying attention to the external condition of the surface of the frame.

Even though modern manufacturers of wooden window structures are trying to maximize the protection of their products, after a month of operation without a protective coating of paint and varnish, the frame begins to absorb moisture from the environment.

Wooden windows are products that must be constantly taken care of to maintain their attractiveness.

If you do not follow the advice of experts and do not take care of the condition of these windows, then repairs can be costly. It is always better to make minor repairs to avoid trouble on a more severe scale.

Unfortunately, repairs are not always possible. However, replacing the window is the only solution if it has completely fallen into disrepair.

In what cases, however, the window will have to be dismantled and thrown away:

• The frame crumbles. Most often, it happens in the lower part of the window, where condensation accumulates;

• The geometry of the window is badly disturbed. If it cannot be corrected without removing the frame, it is better to replace the frames;

• The window is too fragile. Thin bindings between the panes may not be able to withstand mechanical impacts. Considering that you will need to peel off layers of paint from the frame and thus apply force, do not waste time on the restoration and immediately dispose of the window.

You can replace the window not only with the popular plastic one but also with a wooden one. Such products are a little more expensive and functionally almost the same as PVC windows, as they are equipped with modern fittings and double-glazed windows.

What can be repaired:

• Frame appearance;

• Broken glass;

• Slots;

• Small misalignments;

• Local rotten areas;

• Sagging sashes.

You will need tools and materials: chisels, planer, trowel, drill, level, sealant, varnish, putty, and paint.

Restoration is best done in the summertime when the weather is warm and dry. First, you should start with the inspection and identification of defects. To avoid missing anything, the frames can be removed from the box to check the integrity and reliability of connections, as well as compliance with the level of the sides of the box.

The most common problem faced by owners of wooden windows is blowing as a consequence of freezing in winter.

The cause may be the following defects:

1. Wood shrinkage and formation of gaps between the frame and the box;

2. Leaking seams and joints between the glass and frame elements.

Previously, for sealing cracks used regular absorbent cotton, but today you can buy high-quality and easy-to-install seals made of foam rubber and rubber. They have a self-adhesive base covered with protective film or paper.

To close the gaps with the sealants, remove the frames from the boxes, and glue the adjoining places around the contour. If the hole is large, a strip of material should be glued to the edge. The open sashes are glued in the same way.

The gaps between the panes and the frame can be sealed with silicone sealant. To avoid glass rattling, it must be planted on the aquarium glue.

How to repair a sash that does not close properly

Over time, the opening parts of the window sag under its weight or swell, saturated with moisture. Because of this, the sashes may be hard to come into the frame or stop closing altogether. There can be two ways out of the situation:

1. Knife off the top layers of wood;

2. Tighten or relocate hinges.

The first option is suitable if there are no gaps and the sash fits tightly around the perimeter frame. Next, you can find the area that interferes with functionality visually; in this place, on the shelf will be erased paint. Finally, cutting the wood from the sash into thin layers and checking how easily it goes into the opening is necessary.

The second option is used if a gap has formed. The hinges should be removed and installed a few millimeters higher to fix a large sag. It is also possible that the fastening of the hinges is simply loose, in which case you can tighten or replace the self-tapping screws. If the gap is small, you can try to put a thin wire on the hinge pins and hang the sash.

Other reasons can impair the functionality of the sash, such as warping the frame or multiple layers of paint.

What to do if the sash is warped

This is one of the most severe problems and requires significant restoration. In addition, warping can compromise window function, creating gaps and affecting the window's appearance.

A warp may be visually noticeable. You can use a spirit level if you can't see it externally. Even a slight difference can affect the quality of the window - a 2-3 mm gap will become a source of cold air and cause freezing.

The problem's solution must be cardinal - the frames should be dismantled, and the correct geometry should be restored. A simple and reliable method is to fix metal reinforcements in the corners. To do this, you must make notches in the frame so that the angle, after installation, does not protrude beyond the edge. Then, the same corners can be mounted on the sashes and wings. Finally, the frame without glass should be laid on an even board and align the diagonals to achieve the correct geometry.

If the dowels or "chops" (wooden nails at the joints of frame parts) are loose, they can be filled with glue; before this, you must adjust the diagonals to equal values.

Sometimes dowels dry out and are freely removed from the groove; in this situation, it is better to make a new, larger diameter. Before installation, lubricate them with liquid nails. To make "dovetails," you will need a core drill bit and a piece of solid wood.

The dowels should be cut strictly across the fibers. And hammer into the holes with a mallet. After installation, wedges should be hammered into the "chocks" on both sides.

Correcting the frame's geometry is not enough; it is possible that the box sags. Change its position can be without dismantling, but only if the difference does not exceed 2 cm. To do this, you must determine the lowest point in the lower plane of the box and the highest at the top. Aiming at them swept away "excess" on the level. The same should be done with the sides of the box. To control the shape of the opening, you need to measure the diagonals and height and width at several points.

Inevitably, the frame will become smaller than the opening. Therefore, you must install wooden slats of appropriate thickness along the perimeter to adjust the dimensions.

How to eliminate rotten areas

Moisture is the first enemy of wood. Suppose the windows "cry" rotting is inevitable. Then, it is crucial to detect the defect to fix it without replacing the window.

To work, you will need to remove the frame or sash with a damaged area, remove the glass, and lay the product on a flat board:

1. The damaged piece of wood must be sheared off or cut off, and a new part must be planted in its place.

2. It must be carefully adjusted to size and secured with liquid nails or joinery glue.

3. The surface should be smoothed, putty covered, sanded, and painted.

If everything is done accurately, the defect will not remain a trace.

Minor damages can be corrected with putty. It must be liberally applied to the damaged area until the lost volume is restored. The composition should be allowed to dry completely and give it the right shape.

Old wooden windows, as a rule, are covered with more than one layer of paint, which has become flaky and has leaks. Of course, you can not waste a lot of time cleaning what is falling off and applying another layer, but to make the window look like a new one, the old coating must be eradicated.

Before you begin the work, you must remove the frames from the box, the glass, and all the metal parts of the mechanisms.

There are three methods for cleaning off the old paint:

1. Mechanical;

2. Thermal;

3. Chemical.

The first is the most complex and time-consuming but does not require special tools and materials. You can remove the paint by hand with a spatula, sandpaper, or a scraper. Although the method is not always practical, it is appropriate if the frames have a thick layer of paint, which is easily removed. Faster work will go with a grinder.

For thermal cleaning, a construction hair dryer is needed. It should be directed to the area of the frame, heated for a few minutes, and immediately removed the paint with a spatula. The generous coating comes off easily, with almost no residue. Areas where the color holds firmly, can be sanded with an emery cloth.

Chemical cleaning uses a special paint remover, but you can also use what you have on hand, such as kerosene.

For this method, the frames should be wrapped in rags, abundantly moistened with solvent, and packed in a plastic bag. Keep for a few days, after which you can clean the surface with a spatula from the softened paint. Wood after such treatment will not be immaculate, and you will need to remove the remains of the coating with a grinder or sandpaper.

The next step is puttying. This type of treatment is necessary to smooth out minor defects: cracks and irregularities. Before this procedure, it is recommended to remove burrs, shave off prominent parts and clean the surface of dust. The compound should be applied to as thin a layer as possible. Then dry and sand well.

The application of fresh paint is the most critical step. Here, much depends on the choice of material. For windows, oil-based paint is best suited. Although the samples on store shelves are made of synthetic components, their life span is short.

You need natural paint to make the windows look good for ten years. It can be made from dense, mineral pigment-based paint mixed with linseed or walnut oil.

It is more convenient to apply the coating with a thin brush. However, it is better to remove the glass so as not to stain it accidentally. Reinstalling the frames can be when the second coat of paint dries. It can also cover the sill, window sill, and inner window sill.

In order not to bring the source of natural light in the apartment to a deplorable state, the windows should be monitored, namely:

• Do not allow moisture to accumulate on the surface of the windows and window sill. Condensation can be caused not only by gaps in windows but also by flower pots, blinds, and heavy curtains;

• Regularly clean the window and windows from dust and dirt with a soapy solution and a soft rag;

• If a rubber cord is used as a seal, oil it twice a year to prevent it from drying out and cracking;

• Lubricate and clean from dust and metal parts of the structure (hinges, locks);

• Once in 10 years, it is recommended to remove paint from the frame and apply a new one;

• If the glass is sealed with putty, the seam should be replaced as it deteriorates.