Restoring older homes and making them livable again can be incredibly rewarding—provided you are willing to put in the time and effort it takes to make the necessary repairs. If you have recently purchased an older home, or if you’ve resided in your home for a while and have been somewhat neglectful of your windows, wood rot is one of the challenges you may run into.

Nowadays, aluminum clad wood windows offer the best of both worlds: the beauty of real wood and the durability of aluminum, which protects the wood so it holds up better against the elements. However, older wood windows had no such protection, and as they aged they may have succumbed to wood rot.

Wood rot is exactly what it sounds like: the rotting or breaking down of the wood in your windows over time, typically due to factors such as harsh weather, faulty sealant, and excessive moisture, which can lead to fungal growth. If left untreated, wood rot can spread, eventually putting the structure of your home in danger, as well as your home’s inhabitants.

Is it possible to repair windows that have wood rot?

In some cases, if the damage is minimal or confined to just a single small area or two, windows affected by wood rot can be repaired with the help of an epoxy wood filler. In addition, if the rot affects only the window frame, you may be able to get away with replacing the frame instead of installing a whole new window. However, if the damage is extensive, your best option is to replace the entire window with one made of durable, weather-resistant materials such as aluminum or vinyl.

Assess before you act.

Be sure to do a thorough assessment of the state of your windows before you decide how to handle your wood rot problem. If the wood feels soft or spongy, if it gives off a musty smell, or if it crumbles easily when you touch it, those are sure signs of wood rot. You may also notice the paint peeling or cracking, or the appearance of mold or mildew around the frame. Look for gaps in the corners of the window frame as well, or if your windows don’t open or close properly.

Need new windows? Trust the professionals.

While you can try to repair windows that have been damaged by wood rot, chances are you will eventually need to replace them. If you are seeing signs of wood rot but unsure about the next steps, the team at XO Windows can help you assess the extent of the damage and determine your best option.

As the largest window distributor in the state of Arizona, we are dedicated to helping our clients find the best window solutions for their unique needs and budget. Our product catalog includes an extensive array of window styles and high-quality materials, and our installation experts genuinely care about those we serve. Contact us today for a free estimate!