Is A Window Sill Pan Necessary?

Is A Window Sill Pan Necessary?

Is A Window Sill Pan Necessary?

Yes. Improper or nonexistent sill pans allow air and water to get underneath the doorsill and into the subfloor, causing hardwood floors to be damaged and setting off a mold time bomb. Window sill pans are a simple, yet effective way to keep your hardwood and carpet floors dry and free of water damage.

Simply put, a window sill pan is a piece of hardware that sits on top of your window sill. When it’s installed correctly, it prevents water and air from getting underneath the door sill and into the subfloor, where it can cause damage to your flooring.

And, if you live in a particularly wet area, window sill pans can also help reduce the spread of mold. Because water can’t get under the pan, it can’t get onto the floor and start growing mold. In fact, window sill pans are so effective at preventing water damage that many insurance companies now require them for home insurance claims.

So, whether you’re looking to keep your floors clean and free of water or reduce the chance of mold growth, window sill pans are a great way to go. And, if you’re not sure if you need a window sill pan, be sure to ask your home insurance agent.

They may require one in order to cover you in the event of a water or mold disaster. Without a sill pan, water can seep in under the sill and into the framing. If you live in an area where there is a lot of water and moisture, this is especially important. Newer homes can sometimes have improperly installed window sills that don’t have proper pans underneath them.

How Do You Make A Wooden Window Sill?

Making a wooden window sill is a simple project that can be done in just a few hours. There are a few supplies you will need, and most of them can be found at your local hardware store.

What You’ll need:

  • Plywood sheet
  • Tape measure
  • Circular saw
  • High-grit sandpaper
  • Wooden screws
  • Paint or a sealant

The following instructions will show you how to create a basic window sill out of wood:

  1. Measure and cut the plywood sheet to the desired size. Be sure to allow for a 1-inch margin all around the perimeter of the sheet.
  2. Remove the pieces of paper and ordinance that may be adhered to the plywood with tape or glue.
  3. With the circular saw, make a few cuts along the top and bottom of the plywood sheet. Be sure to make a deep enough cut so that the plywood can be easily attached to the wooden window frame.
  4. Sand the surface of the plywood to ensure a smooth finish.
  5. Attach the plywood to the wooden window frame with wooden screws. Be sure to predrill the screws and use a washer and nut to ensure a snug fit.
  6. Paint or seal the plywood surface to finish.

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