Learning About Historical Window Replacement and Materials

Tips For Repairing Dry Rot In Your Window Sills

2 March 2016

Isaiah Brewer

It can be disheartening to see dry rot on your window sills. It can even happen to houses and window sills that aren't very old. The name dry rot is actually misleading because it has nothing to do with being dry. Dry rot actually happens because of moisture and humidity. Here are some tips to help you repair dry rot in your window sills.

Locate Rotted Sills

First, you will need to locate the window sills that are dry-rotted. It's fairly easy to spot dry rot, unless you have wood trim that is painted a dark color. Look for wood that is discolored with paint that is chipping. Once you find a window sill that appears to be in less than pristine condition, you can then look further to see if it does actually have dry rot. Take a tool like a screwdriver and push the pointed end into the wood. If it pushes in easily with wood that chips away, then it's dry-rotted and in need of repair.

Chip Away the Dry Rot

Using your screwdriver or a similar tool, chip away at the rotted wood. Keep in mind if you have to chip away at the majority of the window sill, then it might be a good idea to just replace it. If it's not extensively dry-rotted, then continue on to the next step.

Fill in the Gaps with Epoxy

Fill in the holes with an epoxy that can be bought at any home improvement store. Generally this substance sets rather quickly, so you will want to work fast pressing the epoxy tightly into the gaps. Make sure the epoxy rises up above the existing wood so you can sand it down after it dries.

Sand and Paint

It usually takes about a day for epoxy to harden, and once it does, you are ready for the finishing touches. Sand the epoxy so it matches up with the existing window sill. If you do it just right, it will be nearly impossible to tell that a repair was made. After you sand it, you can wipe away the dust and debris from the sanding and paint it. Use several coats to make sure it is fully protected from the elements.

Now that you have finished the repair, you can admire your handiwork. If you have put enough care and time into it, then it will look as good as new. It also would be a good idea to spend a little time making sure that water is draining properly around the window to make sure the dry rot doesn't occur again. Contact a company like Nu-Vue Products for more information.

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