Replacing A Window Sill

By Robert Robillard on Home Repairs And Remodeling

Replacing a Rotted Sill Nosing

Often times the first part of a wood window to rot is the sill nosing.  Luckily this nosing is a removable and replaceable part of the window.  With many window manufacturers replacing a window sill is a viable option as opposed to replacing the window or to using a slew of wood filler.

Use Insect and Rot Resistant Wood

When replacing window nosing on wood windows I like to use 2×4 cedar. Cedar is well known for it’s insect and rot repelling abilities and is easy to work on the table saw.

Replacing A Window Sill

Remove the Old Sill

The first step in replacing a rotted window sill nosing is to remove the old one. I use a utility knife to score the seams and cut through the years of paint and caulking before attempting to pry it away from the window.
Using a combination of a scraper blade and pry way I pry the nosing off. It is usually held on with 6 nails.
Replacing A Window Sill
Once the old nosing is removed I cut it on my miter saw to create a rot free profile. I then use this profile to make a new sill out of 2×4 cedar.
Replacing A Window Sill
New nosing on left, old profile on right. the nosing fits into a groove in the window sill frame.
Replacing A Window Sill
Once the sill nosing is made and sanded I prime the back, sides and bottom edges. when the paint is dry I pre-drill 4 to 6 holes and then apply the new sill with a little caulking in the groove and 16 penny, galvanized finish nails.
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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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