Windows - casement repairs

Regular painting and maintenance of casement windows can save expensive replacement bills in the future.

Hinges

Avoid over-painting fixtures, especially the hinges, as this can cause jamming. If necessary, chip off layers of old paint.

Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.

Prime and protect with an exterior metal paint. Lightly oil once a year.

Poorly fitting hinges can also cause problems. If the hinges are damaged or worn replace with new ones.

If the hinge is badly fitted, it can cause the window to bind as it closes. You can easily see if this is the case. As you close the window, watch the hinge to see if it gets pulled. This can be remedied by packing out, or re-seating the hinge.

Binding sashes

One of the most common problems with a timber casement window is when they are stuck or difficult to open. Break any paint film along the join with a craft knife and sand smooth.

If the sash still binds, take a piece of card or paper and run it along the sash edge to find the areas which stick together. Mark these spots on the outside of the frame with a pencil.

Unscrew the hinge screws on the frame and clamp the sash in a work bench. Remember, the sash may be heavy, so when you undo the screws support its weight. Plane along over the areas with a block or bench plane. Take off a few shavings at a time and regularly re-check the fit.

Don't plane the sash frame if the timber is damp, as the wood will contract in dry conditions. Wait until Spring or Summer.