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FOR SMALL GAPS…
Before
A fast and budget-friendly solution is to fill the space with a flexible, moistureresistant foam called gap filler rod, which is available in various thickness. . Run the rod around the window to measure out the length required then snap the end. Tip: Using one continual piece, including around corners, maximises the seal. Push the foam into the gap using a blunt tool such as a screwdriver, ensuring the ends butt against each other. Replace the window trim using construction adhesive.
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Before
GAP BETWEEN WINDOW AND WALL When windows are installed, there are often uneven gaps between the window frame and the wall lining. Most windows are finished with trim to cover the usually untidy edges of the plasterboard. If you can feel cold air coming in on a windy day, then it could be worth getting behind the trim to seal the space. Remove the trim then fill the gaps with an expanding foam that hardens to an airtight, moisture-resistant seal. 2
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DIY TOOLKIT
Safety equipment Utility knife Can of expanding foam 120-grit abrasive paper Construction adhesive Painter’s tape
Before
bunnings |
PRO TIP
STEPS Shake the can of foam for 30 seconds then attach the supplied straw to the nozzle. Put on the gloves (supplied folded inside the lid) and hold the can upside-down to angle the straw into the gap and spray in short bursts. Tip: The foam expands by up to 300 per cent so
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GAP BETWEEN CEILING AND WALL Cornices are installed around the top of walls to cover the ceiling join. If you have wall panelling with grooves, filling along the underside gives a seamless finish.
bunnings.com.au |
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DIY TOOLKIT
Safety equipment Step ladder Caulking gun Utility knife Cloths 50mm angled brush Flexible gap filler Cup of water Paint
bunnings
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2 Moroday 6mm gap filler rod in White, $2.80/5m I/N: 4061882
To remove the trim, run a utility knife down the edge to separate it from any paint, slip the claw of a hammer underneath with a wooden ruler under the head to prevent marking the wall, then push the handle away from the window to lever off the trim don’t overdo the application and apply small amounts, building up the seal gradually. Wait for the filler to expand, tapping to check it has hardened. When completely cured, use a utility knife to trim away the excess flush with the wall. Tip: Allow about 15 minutes of
drying time, although this can vary depending on the temperature and amount of foam used. To replace the window trim, lightly sand the back to remove any old paint, apply construction adhesive and reposition, holding in place with painter’s tape if necessary.
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STEPS Position the ladder on a stable surface, install a tube of filler in the caulking gun, snip the tip with a knife and squeeze the trigger gently while running the tip under the cornice and into the wall grooves. Dab a finger in water and run it along the filler to push it into the grooves and give a smooth finish, keeping your
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finger damp and wiping away excess with a cloth as you go. Wipe along the join with a clean damp cloth to remove excess filler, ensuring there are no marks on the cornice (to avoid having to paint), then leave to dry. Finish by touching up the wall using an angled brush and matching paint. Tip: If the wall and cornice are different colours, tape along the cornice to avoid slip-ups.
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