What Type of Wood to Use for a Window Stool?

Identification

• A window stool is the wooden area under the window. Many people call this with window sill; however, in construction terms, it is the stool. When referring to the stool, some also consider all trimming around the window a part of the stool, though, technically, only the bottom piece is the stool. The stool will often match the wood framing around the rest of the window.

Decorating

• The type of wood you use on for a window stool will depend on how you want to finish or decorate it. A hardwood, such as ash or oak, works well for staining and a natural look. Hardwoods are naturally more porous, so if you try to paint them, they will soak up the paint. The vessels, or pores, in hardwoods will also make the natural finish appear more complex, as there are several vessels in the hardwood. This can also make it look rustic.

  Softwood, however, works well if you want to paint the stool, as it has fewer pores to soak in paint. It is also less grainy, so it will have a more polished look after painting. Softwood will be less expensive, as well. Look for a wood that is paint grade, and if you would like to cut costs further for a painted stool, you can also use a medium-density fiberboard. Softwoods are not usually as durable as hardwoods and may need be replaced sooner.

Maintenance

• Purchase a wood that has been properly sealed to avoid rotting. When you are installing, attach the wood ring-side down so that if it cups later, the cupping will not be as obvious. Ordering quarter-sawed wood can also prevent cupping.

Considerations

• Manufacturers often create premade window stools and sills based on the measurement of your window. If you are not sure you want to tackle the project yourself, contact a lumberyard to see whether there are companies that sell premade models. If you are not familiar with construction methods, a premade model can guarantee that you have chosen an appropriate wood and that it is molded correctly.