How to Replace Rotten Sill Plate & Studs

One of the most common renovation projects is replacing water-damaged wall sections. One of the most commonly water-damaged wall sections is the sill plate and studs around a window. Simply put, a window is a hole in a solid wall, and if the seal has broken down, water will take a major toll on any wood it is allowed to contact. Although a bit complicated, it is an easy fix that should not present any real problems.

Saw.
5 2-by-4s
1 1-by-6
Jack
Sheet-metal connectors
Level
Framing nails

Instructions

- 1
  
  Exterior walls are often load-bearing and must be supported before removing studs.
  
  Remove any walling around the window to expose the frame and studs and remove the window itself. Find the extent of the rotten wood. Mark at least 1 inch above the rotten section. Place the jack on the outside of the window stud with a 2-by-4 (or support pole if one is available) on top and raise the jack to the point where it takes the weight off the rotten stud.
- 2
  Cut along the previously made mark. Make the cut as level as possible. Remove the rotten sections and discard. Measure, cut and install 2-by-4s in the gap using a sheet metal connector to connect with the cut pieces. Nail another 2-by-4 to the outside of the gap, attaching it to the header, the footer and the cut pieces. Repeat this for all rotten pieces.
- 3
  Attach the 1-by-6 to the newly installed 2-by-4s to form the new sill plate. Reinstall your window in the opening, and ensure there is a good seal around the frame to keep from having to replace the studs and plate again. Remove the jack carefully and replace your walling.

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