lundi 21 octobre 2013

Learning To Repair Rot And Decay On Wooden Windows

By Zara Zambini


The signs of a rotting window are unmistakable. The wood becomes soft and spongy to the touch, and crumbles easily in the hands when dry. Whatever the cause, homeowners may save money by knowing how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows. Basic steps include applying a primer, applying an epoxy, and then finishing the project with paint or stain, and sealer.

The main enemies of a wooden window are sun and moisture. Both occur in nature every day, but moisture is the more malevolent of the two. The fungus which causes dry rot thrives in moist, unventilated conditions, such as those present between a layer of paint and a window sill. Excessive moisture, a damaged finish, or failed caulking, are just some of the reasons that wooden windows develop rot.

To begin the repair, homeowners must remove all rotten wood. With a paint scraper, or with a utility knife, old paint, caulk, and rotten wood should be scraped away, until new wood is reached. The new wood must be both coarse and dry before painting, so homeowners will have to sand, and dry the new wood beneath the rot.

When rot is removed, primer, or consolidant, should be applied. A primer is usually comprised of two liquids, and equal portions of each liquid are mixed to form the final material. The primer soaks into the wood, pre-treating the surface, so that epoxy will adhere.

Homeowners may have to drill holes into the frame. If dry rot goes all the way down, then drilling small, sloping holes, will help the consolidant to cover all of the gaps in the wood. When the primer has been applied, it should be given sufficient time to cure, as written in the manufacturer's directions.

One or two coats of epoxy may be necessary, depending on the severity of the decay. Homeowners should mix the epoxy and apply it, using a trowel to press into gaps in wood, and into damaged areas. The epoxy should then be allowed to cure, per the manufacturer's directions, until it is ready to be sanded. After sanding, homeowners may prime and paint, or stain, the surface, and then finish the job by applying a waterproof sealer.

Learning how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows is an uncomplicated process. Homeowners who are willing to invest a little time and elbow grease will easily complete the repair. The cosmetic damage will be contained, and homeowners will save money on labor costs, by completing a few simple steps.




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