How to Maintain Wood Windows
Wood windows were the only type of windows used for many years before vinyl and aluminum windows were introduced. With the proper care and maintenance, your exterior wood doors and windows will last for many years. The do-it-yourself handyman can inspect and repair wood windows and doors for his house if he knows what to look for and the proper repair procedures. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Painter's tape
- Stepladder
- Soft scrub brush
- Bleach
- Putty knife
- Caulk gun
- Silicone painter's caulk
- Sanding block
- Sandpaper
- Exterior wood filler
- Exterior paint
- Paintbrush
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Instructions
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Inspect the wood window for any visible signs of damage to the window frame, window casing and sill. Place a piece of blue painter's tape to mark the window at each location. Use a stepladder so you can get to the top of the windows.
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Open and close the window. Check the seal, lock and hardware for damage. Repair or replace damaged seals or weatherstripping.
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Clean the window unit, using a soft scrub brush to remove fungus, mold and dirt from the exterior of the wood surface. For stubborn mold or mildew stains, use a mixture of one part bleach and three parts water. Rinse and let dry.
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Remove loose or damaged caulk from around the window, using a putty knife. Apply a new bead of caulk around the window, using a high-quality silicone window caulk and a caulk gun.
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Sand and repair damage to the wood. Use a exterior wood filler to fill dings, scratches, and cracks, applying with a putty knife Sand smooth and feather the repair into the surrounding window area. Use a sanding block and 120-grit sandpaper.
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Paint the window with a high-quality exterior window paint and a quality paintbrush. This will seal and protect the window. Use painter's tape to protect the surrounding surfaces.
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Tips & Warnings
Mask off the glass with painter's tape; it removes easily without leaving a sticky residue.
Wear safety glasses when working on the window to keep dirt and debris out of your eyes.
References
- Photo Credit old house window image by Kathy Burns from Fotolia.com
