How to replace a rotten window frame
Damp or exposure to the elements can cause wood all sorts of problems. A rotten window frame is just one of the problems you might come across. Read our guide on how to replace a rotten window frame here.
Level of difficulty
Level 2: Intermediate
What you need
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Dust mask
- Saw
- Power drill
- Screwdriver
- Screws
- Putty
- Wood preserver
The steps to follow
- Remove the windows.
- Cut through the paint and plaster between the sash and window casing.
- Saw through the side frame of the window (jambs) at a 45 degree angle, so that the two ends won't bind when levering out.
- Lever the frame with a crowbar, pull the jambs towards you and move them until they loosen.
- Saw through the sill at a 45 degree angle. Insert a crowbar under the sill and lever it upward to break free.
- Follow the same procedure to remove the head of the frame.
- Put the new frame into the opening.
- Wedge the sill. Use a spirit level to check if the sill is levelled before securing it.
- Attach the sill and jambs with bituminous felt.
- Fit the frame into the brickwork and drill 3 holes into each jamb.
- Remove the frame and use frame fixings.
- Screw the frame back in place.
- Fill any gaps with putty and paint the new frame with wood preserver.
