Window casings are a barrier between the outside elements and also a decorative addition. Window casings will see a lot of wear over time, as they are exposed to moisture and damp conditions. They also expand and contract with the weather. Damage from water to window casings is common. Once they’ve become splintered, gouged, soft and rotted, you need to repair them. They can be repaired and brought back to looking great. All it takes is some simple materials and time. There will be no need to replace them. Today’s article explains how to carry out this repair effectively.

Remove the Damage

When window casings become damaged by water, they can rot and crack, and mold can form. To prevent the damage from spreading to the rest of the casing or the frame, you need to remove the damage.  Begin by pulling out any loose pieces of wood. Use the wire brush to brush away the small pieces you can’t reach, or those that won’t easily come free.

Clean the Window Casings

The materials you will be using to repair the window casings are sensitive to moisture, dirt, and oils. After the damaged wood has been removed, clean up the window casings. Mix several drops of oil-free soap with warm water, until it foams. Submerge a sponge in the soapy water and squeeze out the excess. Wipe down the window casings to remove the oil and dirt. Dry the wood with a microfiber cloth.

Repair the Window Casings

Wood putty is the best material you can use to repair window casings. Its soft enough to fill in any kind of damage. If you have cracks, gouges, or pieces of wood removed form the window casing, the wood putty should repair it. Use a plastic putty knife that is flexible. This will allow the putty to get deep into the damage. Apply wood putty to the end of the putty knife, and then press it into the damaged areas. Continuously add more wood putty, until the areas are completely filled.

Sanding and Finishing

Wood putty will lighten when its dry, and it should only take an hour for small repairs. Large repair jobs, like deep fills, can take a day or more to dry. The drying time varies, depending on humidity and temperature. Use the fine-grit sanding block to sand down the repaired window casings. The wood putty needs to be smooth to the touch, and even with the rest of the wood that makes up the window casing. Wipe the area down with a damp rag, to remove the dust created by the sanding. Paint or stain the repair to match the rest of the casing.

For more about how we can help you, read more at drypatrolcolumbus.com or call us at (614) 407-5543.