Easy Replacement of Window Sill Walls

The necessity to replace window sill walls is mostly due to when the homes were built. In homes that were constructed prior to the 1960s, the window sill walls were constructed in such a fashion that utilized a window sash, which was not always effective in keeping out weathering elements like moisture. This type of window structure had a sloped sill that was made out of wood on the outside, which carried the main function of draining water from the window. However today, it is known that water and wood do not make for a long lasting structure, free from rot, mold and decay.

Today, when utilizing wood for window sills, you may be inclined to use pressure-treated wood; however, pressure-treated wood is not up to code and standard to use in the structure of a home. This is mainly due to the fact that if there were a fire, this type of wood would burn and give off toxic fumes that are hazardous. So, it is better to utilize the blue-labeled wood, which will end the problem, with chances of recurrence a minimal.

However, if you are looking for a more economical repair, you can opt for an epoxy patch, which is an effective alternative. Epoxy repair kits will contain a consolidator that works to harden the wood as well as a two-part epoxy. When properly mixed with the correct filler, this will make the original wood stronger.

The window sill replacement itself is a simple task to carry out. Basically, you take out the old sill, measure and cut the replacement, and install.

With any window sill wall replacement, you will need to take measurements of the window sill walls width, length and thickness. Once the measurements are taken and noted, you can remove the sash channel trim, the sidepieces of the trim and then access the sill.

Using a pry bar and some scrap wood to protect the wall, you can pry the trim away from wall. Then you will be ready to remove any nails or jambs with pliers.

You can use the old sill as a template and guide, which you can then trace out the size and shape onto the new wood, and then cut with a saber saw. When you have the precise size cut out of the new wood, you can fit it into place, nail down, and nail the trim back into place.

Countersinking the nails can give a more secure fix to the window sill and trim, and then fill nail holes with wood putty.

After you have finished replacing the window sill wall, you may wish to paint or stain the new wood to help it blend with the rest of the window sills in your home.

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