Search

Wood Windows And Doors: Repairing Minor Cracks In 3 Easy Steps

9 February 2015

Marvin Simmons

Fluctuating temperatures, high humidity levels, and old age can all cause wood windows and doors to develop small cracks and holes over the years. While this damage is relatively minor, it can have a huge impact on the cosmetic appearance of your windows and doors.

Thankfully, repairing this damage can be quite simple once you know what your doing. In fact, the easy to follow steps will allow you to complete these repairs in just three simple steps:

Step 1: Gather The Materials You Will Need

Before you can begin the repair process, you will need to gather a few basic materials. These materials include:

• wood putty
• rotary tool
• sandpaper
• putty knife
• paintbrush
• wood stain (or paint if your windows and doors have a painted surface)

Step 2: Prepare The Area For Repair

When repairing damage to your windows and doors, it is essential that all dead wood and other debris is removed from the damaged area. In order to remove debris from inside any cracks and holes in your wood's surface, use a rotary tool to reach deep into the damage and clear away splintered wood, wood chips, and any other debris you may encounter.

Once you have cleaned inside the damage, you will need to remove any debris from around the damage. This can be done by gently sanding the area surrounding the damage that you will be repairing. Be sure to wipe away any sawdust that results from this process.

Step 3: Fill The Cracks With Putty

With your work surface free of debris, you are now ready to begin filling each crack or hole using wood putty. Be sure to choose an appropriately-sized putty knife so that you can effectively distribute the putty to the deepest levels of the damage.

After filling each crack completely, you will need to remove any excess putty using the side of your putty knife and then allow several hours to pass so that the putty can dry. Upon returning to the repair, gently touch the putty with an ungloved hand.

If no putty is transferred to your hand, you are ready to sand the surface of your repair until it is smooth. However, if the putty feels tacky or if residue is left on your hand, you will need to allow additional drying time before moving forward with the repair.

Finally, apply a thin coat of wood stain or paint to the recently repaired area so that it matches the finish on the rest of your window or door. If you want to learn more or have other questions, you need a go to website for help.

Share