How to Fix a Loose Aluminum Window Frame

Loose window frames cause excessive leaking of cold air into the interior of the home, as well as leaking heated air to the outside. This leakage can cause homeowners hundreds of dollars in annual energy costs. Looseness in window frames can also lead to moisture intrusion or insect infestation in the building materials surrounding the window. Loose aluminum window frames should be repaired as soon as you detect a problem with the fit of the frame on the structure.

Candle or stick of incense
Caulk
Caulk gun
Epoxy consolidant
Epoxy wood filler
Drill with ¼-inch drill bit
Chisel
Sandpaper
Rasp

Instructions

- 1
  Test the frame around the aluminum window for air leaks by holding up a lit candle or stick of incense to see if the smoke exits through gaps. This indicates where the largest gaps are that need attention.
- 2
  Caulk loose areas on the frame with a suitable interior caulk. A caulk gun is used to carefully fill in the seams around the aluminum window and the framing.
- 3
  Inspect the wood around the aluminum window frame for rot. Remove all loose pieces of wood material with the chisel.
- 4
  Drill several ¼-inch holes into the rotted area at intervals.
- 5
  Paint the rotted area with epoxy consolidant.
- 6
  Fill the area with the wood filler and allow it to dry thoroughly.
- 7
  Rasp the filled area level with the surround material, then sand it to a smooth surface.
- 8
  Apply primer, paint and a topcoat to the repaired areas within three days for best results, according to Don Vandervort of HomeTips.com.

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