How to Fix a Bowed Window Frame
Bowed window frames are a common issue in homes, and they can be challenging to fix. In most cases, the best way to fix a bowed window frame is by replacing the entire window unit. However, if you’re on a budget or don’t have the time or energy to replace the window, there are a few ways you can try to fix it yourself.
This blog post will discuss some of the most common causes of window frame bowing and what you can do to correct it. We will also provide tips for preventing window frame bowing in the future. Read on for more information on how to fix a bowed window frame.
10 Ways on How to Fix a Bowed Window Frame
1. Add a Temporary Board
If your frame is very bowed and you don’t want to do major renovations, you can fasten a straight board across the inside of the frame to cover the bow. This will give you enough support for now and buy you some time.
2. Lift the Window Frame
If your window is on an upper level, you can attach a wood block to the wall with a clamp and use it as a fulcrum. Then, use a rope or string to pull up on the top of your window frame until it is straight. Fasten the rope securely so that it doesn’t slip off the corner while working on it.
3. Re-level or Re-plumb the Window Frame
If you are rebuilding your home, you can re-level or re-plumb your window frame (if it’s not beyond repair). To level the window frame, use shims to make it perpendicular to its surrounding wall. If your window frame is built into brick walls or posts and beams, make sure it is plumb.
4. Adjust the Window Frame’s Level
To lower your window frame, use a block and tackle pulley system by attaching one end of the line to the bottom corner of your window and the other end to an anchor point (such as part of your house’s exterior).
Adjusting your windows’ level can be done by simply lifting the window frame or lowering it down. To raise a bowed window frame, secure a cement block (or something similar) to one corner of the frame and use a rope to pull it up and fasten the rope to a wall or framing beam.
5. Add Cross-Bracing
Adding cross bracing will keep your window frame steady and firm. Use pieces of wood that run perpendicular to the length of your window frame and attach them to each corner or side.
6. Add L-Bracing
Using L-bracing will make your frame more secure and sturdy, which is good if you live in an area where mid-western barnstorms (severe winds) are prevalent. Use sturdy wood that runs parallel to the length of your window’s width.
7. Add Stabilizer Bars
Stabilizer bars work well on previous metal or wooden framed windows with an aluminum frame. Attach them to each corner using screws, nails, bolts, or whatever is strong enough for your window’s material. This will keep your window from falling over and increase its stability.
8. Frame Box Reinforcement
If your window is old, you may want to make it more robust by using a frame box reinforcement. This typically occurs in older homes where the window’s structural support has weakened over time. Using heavy-duty wood covering the entire bottom portion of your window will keep it from bowing or falling apart.
9. Add Tie-Downs
If you live in an area with heavy winds, adding tie-downs to your existing window is a good way to keep it from bowing or blowing out. Use metal brackets that attach to the top of your window and screw them into place. This is especially helpful if your window’s frame is already bent or damaged.
10. Add Casters
If you have a difficult window to open and close, adding casters will make your life a lot easier. To do this, first, attach a small bottom section of wood onto the window’s bottom board so it can slide back and forth on the floor. Then drill screws into the caster’s base, so it sticks to the floor and screws the caster onto your window’s bottom board.
What Does It Mean When a Window Frame Is Out of Square?
When a window frame is square, it can cause some difficulties. Here are just a few of the problems that an out-of-square window frame may cause:
1. A wobbly and uneven window pane on the lower section of the opening (usually).
2. The top portion of the window pane will not weatherstrip properly against the window frame.
3. The windowpane will not seat properly against the metal flange on the exterior of the house wall when it is closed and locked.
4. Door weatherstripping cannot be applied to a door that opens into a room past a window with an out-of-square opening because there isn’t room for the weatherstripping to fit.
5. The windows will be difficult or impossible to install because they won’t fit into the opening properly.
6. The window sash can bind on its way up and down in an out-of-square opening. This can damage window hardware, particularly older wood windows with pulley systems that rely on the proper fit to operate as designed.
7. The casing and other finish work will not fit appropriately over an out-of-square window frame. If the jambs are not square, crown molding installed around the opening will show a gap on one side of the window and be too tight on the opposite side.
Some Tips and Suggestions
Here are some tips and suggestions on how to fix a bowed window frame.
1. Painting your window frame with exterior paint can help restore it to its original condition.
2. You can use a rubber mallet to straighten the window jamb.
3. Drill-in drywall screws can be used as well. Be careful not to crack your windowpane when setting them in place.
4. You can also put a steel shim between the sash and weatherstrip, tap it a few times with a mallet. This will help to straighten your window frame.
5. If your weatherstrip is in good condition, you can try using a caulk with an acrylic additive; this will strengthen it and prevent it from sticking out of place.
6. You can also use a sealant to cover the cracks in the caulking for more reinforcement.
7. If your window has scratches on it, you can still repair the pane by using exterior paint with a tinted color; this will hide the appearance of small cracks and etches on your windowpane.
What Makes A Window Energy-Efficient?
One of the most noticeable signs that your home needs an energy-efficient upgrade is when you notice that windows are broken or damaged in some way. Likewise, if multiple windows are acting up, it’s time to take a look at each window and figure out why they’re not working correctly.
Most of the windows in this house were bowing outward, which required a complete replacement. There are several reasons why windows don’t work correctly, but age and wear and tear are the most common. In some cases, windows can warp or bow out from years of regular use by opening and closing them daily. This causes the window frame to become warped or put under stress.
Final Words
If you’re experiencing a bowed window frame, the first thing to do is make sure your windows are installed correctly. You might need to raise or lower them depending on their original setup. Next, measure where the bowing starts and ends so that you can see what’s causing it from both sides of the glass pane.
Once you’ve identified where exactly there is a problem with your window installation, fix it by adding spacers between the panels and installing new weather stripping around all edges of each meeting.
Make sure everything is sealed tightly before reinstalling! We hope this blog post on how to fix a bowed window frame has been helpful. If you have any questions or want to know more, then feel free to comment below!
Angela Ervin
Angela is the executive editor of DIY quickly. She began her career as an interior designer before applying her strategic and creative passion to lifestyle and home. She has close to 15 years of experience in creative writing and online content strategy for housekeeping, home decorations as well as other niche efforts. She loves her job and has the privilege of working with an extraordinary team. She lives with her husband, two sons, and daughter in Petersburg. When she's not busy working she spent time with her family.
