Always repair window frames before you repaint. In this situation, as you can see from the picture, this window frame needs major repair. For some reason, the wood of the window frame has begun to rot. We are not sure if this is dry rot or wet rot. But never the less the window frame is becoming compromised. It is only a matter of time before the window will need to be replaced. It is not even at a spot where water can collect and cause the wood to soften and begin to rot. Never the less it has started.
Many people, upon seeing this would just have the window replaced before it causes water leakage, however, in our case we decided to repair window frames and get at least another year or two out of this particular window. We are doing it yourself home repairmen and so it does not cost much to make the repair and we can do this work ourselves. If you pay someone to paint and repair your windows, the cost can quickly get out of hand, you may be further ahead to just replace the window with vinyl frame windows which require no maintenance! It is all about cash flow and overall cost. Decide what is best for your own specific situation.
Repair Window Frames – Then Paint
We removed all of the paint and as much of the rotting wood as possible. Fortunately, it was only half an inch deep and the frame of the window is not compromised at all. Once this step was completed, we filled the hole with caulking. This is exterior caulking, white in color, and suitable for this sort of thing. Most important it can be painted. It may take a little longer to dry since the caulking is quite thick, so you have to wait at least 24 hours before painting.
Repair Window Frames – Steps to Follow
The standard steps to repair window frames and painting are as follows:
- Scrape all loose and chipping paint from the window frame
- Use a wire brush to remove any hard to get at places
- Use steel wool to smooth the wood and introduce a rough surface to any remaining paint. This is important for the adhesion of the new paint, especially if you are using semi-gloss paint
- Apply caulking to all joints and repairs that may be needed
- Once the caulking is dry apply at least two coats of paint to all areas of the window frame that has been exposed down to the bare wood.
- Recheck yearly to repair window frames as needed.
If you are not able to do this work yourself, you may need to hire someone who can do the work. Make sure they properly scrape the old paint, sand, etc before repainting the windows. If you are down to the bare wood, you will need to repaint twice to provide two coats of paint for protection. For more information about repair, you can do around your home, click here.