ArcaMax

A window sill, also called a stool, is a ledge at the bottom of a window inside a house. In an older home it can be damaged by moisture caused by condensation, so it may need to be replaced. If a house is built without that ledge, installing a new one provides protection and adds a stylish detail to the window. That addition can be a nice upgrade to a room that otherwise doesn’t have much appeal or architectural accents.

We found vinyl sills installed with adhesive, which are designed in two styles: one is a straight cut design, and the other wraps around the sides of the wall, giving it a custom look. The profiles are either classic or contemporary. At the manufacturer’s website, www.sill-rite.com, you can learn about the different styles, how to measure a window for a new sill and what’s involved installing one.

A carpenter or handyman will charge $286, which includes labor and material, to install a 4- foot-wide sill. That’s assuming no repair work is required on the window and wall, which will cost more. If you’re handy and have some basic carpentry skills and tools, you can buy the sill for $70 and do it yourself, and save 76%. To do the job you'll need a tape measure, carpenter’s square, saber or small circular saw, construction adhesive and waterproof caulking and a caulk gun.

Pro Cost: $286 — DIY Cost: $70 — Pro time: 3.9
DIY Time: 4.5 — DIY Savings: $216 — Percent Saved: 76%

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

©2024 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.