Best Quick Fix for Rotted Window Sill

Laurie Reis asks,

Hi! I love you guys! I was hoping to get some ideas on this. I have a wood-framed window in my tub/shower. We had a tub surround installed about 15 years ago, and the wood frame of the window on the bottom ledge of the framing has rotted away, and water can get between the tub surround and the wall. Besides that, it looks HORRID. I intend to have the whole thing torn out and redone next year, but I would like to know if there is anything I can do quickly that is a safe, relatively inexpensive, aesthetic fix. Thanks so much for any suggestions!

Our Answer

Water and wood certainly don’t mix. It does sound like the frame eventually will have to be replaced. Rotted wood is quite common with these frames. However, if the rotted area is limited, you can try filling it in. One product that might help is 3M Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler. Another product you might try is Abatron WoodEpoxy Wood Replacement Compound.

It would be a good idea to take that extra step and replace the window, and when you do, you should consider using a PVC trim such as PVC Composite White Colonial Casing Moldings from Royal Mouldings.

In any event, you might want to consider adding a small waterproof shower window curtain to stave off as much water as you can. Good luck with the project.