Window frame wood rot is one of the most common issues that homeowners will deal with regarding their windows. The presence of wood rot in a window frame can lead to all kinds of difficulties.

Read on to learn more about how the wood rot issue is usually handled.

What is Wood Rot and Why Does It Affect Window Areas?

Wood rot is a form of moisture damage that can affect any area of the home, with window frames being particularly vulnerable. Water from leaks or condensation builds up, seeping into the wood. The wood begins to break down, making the frame structurally unsound.

When your window frames have rotted, this can affect other areas of your home’s exterior, including the walls. Prompt repair is essential to help keep your home’s windows in top condition. Making sure your frames are wood rot-free helps ensure that the new window installation goes according to plan.

One thing helpful for many to know is that there are ways to prevent wood rot or at least decrease the chances of its severity. Repairing leaks promptly will decrease the chances of the water causing rot in your window frames. Selecting windows that decrease the condensation that gathers also minimizes the chances of wood rot.

What is Done About Window Frame Wood Rot During Window Installation?

How your installer addresses window frame wood rot depends on whether the window installation is a new construction tear-out or a wood pocket replacement. These installations are used under different sets of circumstances. One thing that both methods have in common is ensuring the windows have warranty coverage after installation.

New construction installation involves taking out the entire window frame, as well as any moldings or casings common in some houses. All of the materials for the replacement frame are new, eliminating any instances of wood rot entirely. Windows installed using new frame material will meet or exceed lifetime expectations.

Wood pockets or custom inserts are also popular ways to correct wood rot. These solutions are used in circumstances where the wood rot is relatively minor enough to warrant only patching or replacing one smaller area. Eliminating wood rot through either of the two methods makes it easy for installers to guarantee their work. Installers can perform wood rot repairs on interior areas of windows, too, although wood rot is not as common inside as it is outside.

What Are Some Important Considerations When You May Have Wood Rot?

Because wood rot is often difficult to see prior to window installation, you may have had this issue and been unaware of it for a long time. However, there are a few indicators that you may need to have wood rot addressed if you have windows replaced. These include:

• Having current windows that attract a lot of condensation
• Hail or storm damage to your siding that has caused leaks in the past
• Roof leaks that have caused exterior damage
• Water leaks inside your home that have penetrated walls

Sometimes, wood rot is extensive enough that you notice it without having to remove the windows. You might have the wood on a window sill that is soft, or you may notice discoloration around the frame When you see signs like these, they are good indicators that you may have wood rot.

When you need new windows, it is a good idea to plan for possibly having to replace the whole frame if the damage is more extensive than originally thought. Installers want to make sure that the windows last and homeowners have the maximum protection with guaranteed work. This is a winning combination all around.

Energy Pro Windows & Siding provides the window installation services you need. Contact us today to see how we can help with window frame rot.