Josiah Bartlett
07-10-2008, 2:08 AM
I'm repairing some ancient window sashes on my house, and I found that somebody tried to repair a loose joint by sinking some 8 penny finish nails through it. The joints are out of position because the glazing cracked out, and I want to disassemble the sash and re-glue the joints to square before I fit them back into the casings. I already have the sashes out of the window and the glass out of the sash, and the old glue has already failed, so only the nails are holding the joint together. I can take my time on this because I have an extra sash fitted to the window.
What is the best way to remove these? I'm thinking about just driving them all the way through and filling the holes. The sashes are old growth fir, but they will be painted so nothing will really show. The main concern is that the wood is old and dry and prone to splitting, and I'm afraid if I try to drive the nails through I'm going to split the sash.
The other option I thought of is to use a plug cutter around the nail and pull it, then fill the hole with a dowel, which will also pin the joint.
Any better ideas? Is there a way to temporarily treat the wood to reduce the risk of a split, like steam or heat?
Any recommendations on glue? I'm thinking of using Titebond III, then West Marine penetrating epoxy to soak into the end grain and prevent cracks, with an oil base primer and exterior paint on top. The sashes aren't rotten but they are over 100 years old and exposed to the afternoon sun.
What is the best way to remove these? I'm thinking about just driving them all the way through and filling the holes. The sashes are old growth fir, but they will be painted so nothing will really show. The main concern is that the wood is old and dry and prone to splitting, and I'm afraid if I try to drive the nails through I'm going to split the sash.
The other option I thought of is to use a plug cutter around the nail and pull it, then fill the hole with a dowel, which will also pin the joint.
Any better ideas? Is there a way to temporarily treat the wood to reduce the risk of a split, like steam or heat?
Any recommendations on glue? I'm thinking of using Titebond III, then West Marine penetrating epoxy to soak into the end grain and prevent cracks, with an oil base primer and exterior paint on top. The sashes aren't rotten but they are over 100 years old and exposed to the afternoon sun.