DIY Home Improvement: How to Install a Replacement Window
Tools & Materials:
Pry Bar
Box Cutter/ Utility Knife
Caulk Gun
Chisel
Tape Measure
Drill
Screwdriver
Hammer
Square
Caulk
Shims
New Window
Important Note: All measuring, removing, and installing of your windows should take place from inside your home. Not only is it much easier to install your windows from inside, it is also much safer.
1. Measuring
You will need to measure your old windows to figure out what size replacement window you will need to purchase. It is important to use your windows smallest measurements when purchasing your replacement window or else the new window will not fit. You can also bring your measurements to the store you will be purchasing the replacement windows from and they will help you pick out the best window for your home.
First measure your windows width. To do this accurately you will need to take the measurement from inside the window jam at the top, middle, and bottom of your window. While it may seem like these measurements should all be the same, they are often not due to fluctuations in old houses. If they are not the same use the smallest measurement.
You will now need to measure your windows height. Like when you measured the width you will need to measure only the window so measure from the window sill up to top jam of the window. Repeat this process on both side of the window and the middle, once again using the smallest measurement when picking out your new replacement window.
2. Remove The Old Windows
This process will vary depending on the type of window you currently have, though the basic steps are the same adjust as needed.
The stop pieces are the main pieces that keep your windows in place. The first thing you will need to do is remove the inside stop piece from your window. Make sure you do not damage the stop because you will need to reuse the stop when installing your new window. You can remove these by sliding your chisel in and hitting it with your hammer.
The next thing you will need to do when removing the old window is to remove the interior sash. You may notice weights of cords at this point in the process, if you do simply cut any cords or weights that you see. The weights will fall into their wells and can be left there.
You will now need to remove the exterior sash from the window as well as the parting beads. You can do this the same way you did the interior sash.
Important Note: Make sure to leave the outside window stop intact or else your new windows will fall outside the house when installing them!
The final step in removing your old windows is preparing the window frame for the new window. Sand down any uneven parts to the sill and fill in any holes that may have occurred with caulk. Any holes or gaps in your window will cause major weatherproofing problems and cause major damage to your home.
3. Install Your New Windows
The most important thing to do when installing your new windows is to make sure they are plum. Plum simply means level and squared. If your windows aren’t plum water and air can seep through. Windows that aren’t plum will also have difficulties opening and closing. This is also a good time to consult your replacement windows installation instructions, as many times different windows have different procedures for installation. This installation instruction is for most basic windows.
If you plan on installing insulation at the bottom of your window you need to do it before completing the following steps,
Before you do any installing of the window, place the new window into the window area and assess the situation. You will then want to put the window sashes in the center of your window. Almost all windows have four mounting holes, you will need to move the bumper stops towards the center of the window so that the mounting holes become visible. Remove the new unit from the window area.
It is now time to install the header at the top of the window unit. You can install it by using caulk and any screws that would have come with the replacement window unit. Note: Headers often called expanders
The next step is to place the window unit into the opening. Make sure to use your square and check every corner for squareness. Remember if your window isn’t square and plum, it will not work! If the window is not square use your shims to adjust the window as needed. After you have made the window square, you will want to use mounting screws to screw the unit into the side jams. Your new window should come with mounting screws to do this.
You will now need to move the header up to the top of the window unit and secure it to the frame with screws. You are now almost done. Test the window sashes by moving them up and down. Is everything sliding smooth and correctly? If it is move on to the next step, if it isn’t there are adjustment screws that can be adjusted. Fiddle with them until you get the window to move smoothly.
Once the window is moving correctly you will need to reinstall the inside window stops that you saved when removing your old window. You can reinstall them using caulk and small screws. To completely weather proof the windows you will want to caulk up all edges of the window and fill in any gaps with insulation foam.
If you need further help in installing your windows there are some great books on the market to help you. Black and Decker’s Complete Guide to Windows and Doors is a great book that will not only help you with installing your replacement windows, but it also has great information on how to pick the right windows for your home. Build Like A Pro: Windows and Doors also has a lot of great information.
