DIY Network

Weeping Windows DIY's Finders Fixers team comes to the rescue for a couple with windows that suffer from water damage. From "Finders Fixers" episode DFFX-202

Wally Conway, one of DIY's Finders Fixers home inspectors, helps a couple fix windows that have water damage. Steve and Debi Mortensen know they have plenty of water damage, rot and potential mold under their windows, and the electrical outlets near many of the weepy windows don't work and show signs of water damage.

First, Wally and the Finders Fixers team help seal (close) the gap in the wall and the crack on the exterior; then they will waterproof inside and caulk outside. Finally, the drywall, molding and electrical outlets will be replaced.

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	If your weeping window is in need of repair, let DIY's Wally Conway show you how to turn that weep to a finely sealed, dry-to-the-bone encasement.
	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Closing the Gap and Waterproofing the Window

Materials:

utility knife
hammer and chisel
plywood cut to size
hydro-stop water proofing sealant
paintbrush
cheesecloth
caulking gun
fiber glass insulation
safety gloves and mask

1. Make sure the power to the electrical outlet has been shut off at the circuit breaker. Once you've ensured that the power is off, remove the outlet.

2. With the outlet removed, begin exposing the wall. Use a utility knife to cut off the molding (figure A).

3. Use a hammer and chisel to remove the baseboard.

4. Remove the existing rotted drywall and moldy insulation and determine the location of the gap.

5. Prepare the plywood board. Measure and cut it to size. Paint the board with Hydro-stop waterproofing sealant and cover with a layer of cheesecloth. Cut the cheesecloth at 45-degree angles at the corners to allow overlap.

6. Allow the board to dry completely.

7. In the meantime, use the same sealant to paint the troublesome area underneath the window. Apply liberally to ensure a waterproof seal.

8. To begin the repair on the outside of the window, first prep the area by cleaning the window sill and ensuring that the weep holes (figure B) are free of debris. On the outside of the window, apply a bead of caulk to the crack in the wall. Use your finger to run along the seam to ensure proper cohesion.

9. Once the plywood board has completely dried, put it in place to close up the gap. Place two smaller blocks behind the board to act as a support. The board can then be anchored to the existing studs (figure C) in the window frame.

10. Before replacing the drywall, replace any damaged outlets.

11. Put the new insulation in place. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask for safety. Remember to put the paper side facing the living space.

	Figure D
	Figure E

Replacing the Drywall

Materials:

tape
drywall
mesh drywall tape
drywall mud
trowel
nail gun
safety goggles

1. Mark off the studs in the window frame with tape. This will help with locating them later when putting the drywall in place.

2. Nail the drywall in place (figure D) and then apply the drywall mud to the seams.

3. Apply a strip of drywall tape to the seam and cover with more mud.

4. Allow to dry, sand down and repeat if necessary.

5. Replace the baseboard and nail in place (figure E).

6. Prime and paint.