Installing Vinyl Replacement Windows In A House
Despite the hefty fees some window replacement firms charge, learning how to install replacement windows only requires a few simple tools and skills. Check the state of your current window frames before deciding to learn how to install replacement windows on your own. The entire unit, including the frame, may need to be replaced if they are rotten or severely out of square. It might be necessary to hire a professional as this is a much bigger and more difficult task than installing a vinyl window insert. Due to its insulating qualities, new vinyl window replacements require less maintenance and provide energy-efficient features. After installation, they will run without a hitch for many years.
Step 1: Window Replacement Options
Full-frame windows and insert windows are your two options for vinyl replacement windows.
- Full-Frame Replacement Windows
- Change the entire existing window all the way to the building frame.
- When the aging and decaying window frames call for replacement.
- Because you have to remove interior and exterior moldings and perhaps the siding, this project is more difficult.
- Insert Or Pocket Replacement Windows
- Using smaller windows that fit inside the existing frames, merely replace the existing sashes.
- The current frames must be in good shape.
- Because your current trimmings and siding are left in place, this option is more DIY-friendly than full-frame replacements.
You can learn how to replace a window insert or pocket window from the exterior of a house by following the step-by-step instructions in this project. Some replacement windows provide interior and outside installation options. For information specific to your windows, consult the manufacturer's documentation.
Step 2: Measure For Replacement Windows
- Use a tape measure to measure the pocket opening's height and width.
- Instead of measuring between the stops holding the sashes in place, measure inside the current frame (you'll need to open the lower sash to get the measurement).
- Measure the window's height at the left, middle, and right.
- At the top, middle, and bottom, gauge the width.
- When ordering your windows, use the minimum height and width measurements possible.
- Wait until you have your new windows and have measured them all to ensure that they will fit before continuing.
Step 3: Remove The Old Window
The processes required to remove your window may differ because there are many window designs. However, for this project, it will be simpler to remove the old windows from the outside. In other cases, it is advisable to remove the sashes from the inside.
- Remove Storm Windows
Remove any storm windows you may have first. Some storm windows can be taken out of their channels by being lifted. Others might need the screws holding them in place to be removed. - Score The Window Edge
Use a utility knife to make a score along the storm window frame's edge, then take out the screws and pry the frame out using a putty knife or pry bar. For this phase, a paint multi-tool, sometimes known as a 5-in-1 tool, is useful. - Remove Sash Weights Or Springs
You might need to take off the sash weights or springs from older windows. If there are weights on your window, remove the ropes and allow the weight to fall inside the frame. The sash springs on your window should be gently removed. Near the top of the window, raise the sash. Possibility of plastic covers on the springs. Cut and remove them if you can. They will break off when the springs are released if you are unable to remove them. The screws holding the springs in place should be removed. - Identify Stops
Look for any stops on the current window. Old wooden windows have stops that hold the sashes in place, including internal stops, stops that separate the two sashes, and stops on the outside. Remove the inside stops if you're installing from the inside, but leave the outer stops in place. Remove the external stops but leave the inside stops in place if you're installing from the outside, like in the case of this job. - Score & Remove Stops
Where the stops and the frame meet, score the area with a utility knife. Perhaps you can pry them off. If the stops won't come off cleanly using a pry bar, they're probably embedded in the frame and will need to be removed with an oscillating saw. Be mindful of where the nails are and let the saw blade do the work. The lower sash and dividing stop should be removed after the top sash has been removed. - Fill Holes & Attach New Pieces For Stability
Where you'll screw the new window into the frame for stability, make sure there is solid wood there and fix any gaps with wood filler. Remove any rotten or broken wood you find and replace it with freshly cut wood. Utilise screws and wood glue to secure new components.
Step 4: Install The New Window
- Clean Your Window Openings & Apply Flashing Tape
The window opening should be cleaned. If necessary, use a shop vacuum to get rid of any dust or debris. Sill: Apply flashing tape. The bottom ledge on the inside side of the window should suit the length of the sill and extend up the stool's vertical leg. Make sure to push it into the stool's corner. - Ensure The Sill Is Level & Dry-fit Your New Window
Make sure the sill is level and that it is not bending. Shims can be used to level the sill if necessary. Make sure they are levelly positioned and fastened with screws and flashing tape to prevent movement. Prepare the opening and dry-fit the new window. A thin space should be left around the frame. Set aside the window. - Apply Caulk & Place The Window & Secure
At the inside head (the top of the frame), the stops, and the sill, apply a 3/8-inch bead of silicone caulk. Place the window in the opening, pressing it firmly against the caulk while resting it against the interior stops. Shims can be used to secure the window by positioning them over the already-drilled frame screw holes. Screws should be inserted through the shims and into the holes from the inside. - Check The Sashes & Ensure Your Window Is Even
Make sure the sashes are positioned equally in the frame. Use more shims if necessary to modify the frame of the new window at the meeting rails, which are the horizontal frame components on the sashes that come together when the window is closed. Verify the window is operating properly and that it is plumb (straight up and down). It should also be level and square. Shims can be used to make any necessary changes. Once everything is in place, trim any protruding shims. - Fill The Gaps & Measure The Height
Apply the window-recommended spray foam insulation into the spaces around the window from the outside. Don't fill the holes too much. Seek advice from the manufacturer's instructions. Backer rod weatherstripping can be used to seal bigger gaps, ensuring that your new windows for your home are watertight and airtight. Do not use batt insulation since it can absorb water. To size the sill adapter, measure the distance from the bottom of the window to the sill. - Cut Sill Adapter & Drill Weep Holes
To make the sill adapter the right width, use a sharp utility knife. Small perforations called weep holes allow water to drain. Drill two weep holes on the adapter's bottom, then secure it to the window. - Install Trim & Caulk The Interior
Use finish nails to install outside trim around the window frame. To avoid denting the trim, drive the nails all the way in using a nail set. Avoid concealing the weep holes when applying latex caulk to the trim's margins. Use wood putty to cover any obvious nail holes and paint the trim as necessary. To complete the installation, apply latex caulk to the interior trim.