Bay window frames exposed to the elements sometimes crack or break.
Bay windows add an architectural element to a house or building. A standard bay window runs against three walls; a front and two slightly diagonal sidewalls. Exposed to excessive sunlight, rain and snow, exterior wooden frames are bound to crack or break, despite layers of protective coating. A damaged bay window frame is not only aesthetically unpleasing, but serves as an architectural hazard that warrants immediate attention. You need to replace the entire frame if a large portion of it is damaged. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Position a sturdy ladder on the ground against the side of the house so you access the bay window. Climb the ladder and inspect the extent of wood damage of the window's frame. Extensive damage or that which covers more than 10 percent of the framing is considered a safety hazard that requires immediate replacement.
2. Drill through the damaged section of the wood frame until you reach dry wood underneath. You want to remove as much of the rotted wood as possible, creating a hollow in the bay window frame. Use a drill to hollow out the damaged section from the middle and work your way outward to the edges. However, work carefully so you only remove the damaged sections.
3. Insert a paintbrush into a can of wood preservative. Apply an even coat of preservative over the hollowed sections of the frame. If required, use a small paintbrush or your gloved finger to work the preservative into crevices or dips in the framing. Also coat the area 2 inches beyond the hollowed section with the preservative.
4. Insert the edge of a putty knife into the container of wood putty and pile it over the hollowed section of the frame. Press the putty lightly so it covers the entire surface. Continue to add layers of putty to the hollowed section of the wood frame until it falls flush with the surrounding surface.
5. Wipe the top of the putty with the edge of the putty knife to smooth it out. Allow the putty to cure and adhere to the surrounding wood surface according to the time specified on the label directions.
6. Sand the repaired section lightly to smooth out the putty and blend it with the surrounding wood surface. Move your hand in small circular motions when rubbing the putty with fine-grit sandpaper.
7. Apply two coats of exterior-grade wood paint over the surface of the wood bay window frame. Allow each coat to dry in between. This practice blends the repaired section with the remaining frame and serves as a protective coating.
Tags: hollowed section, window frame, crack break, damaged section, edge putty, edge putty knife
