Are you thinking about taking on a good do-it-yourself home
improvement project? With some simple tools and a few tips from a
professional installer, you can take on the job of installing your own
vinyl replacement windows.
Advantages
The
newer vinyl replacement windows have many benefits to offer owners of
older homes. First of all, it's all but impossible to find stock windows
at your local lumber yard or home improvement center that fit the
measurement of the openings from your old windows. Since the newer vinyl
replacement windows are made-to-order, the size you get will be a
perfect fit.
Another advantage to considering vinyl replacement
windows is, you don't have to cut the window existing opening bigger to
accommodate a larger window or patch the inside walls and siding because
the new window is smaller than the old opening. Since the new
replacement windows will be built to fit your existing openings, no
other major alterations need to happen. Usually, a little caulking and
some minor touch-up painting is all that's necessary.
Some other
important advantages of installing new vinyl replacement windows are
also inviting. You can expect some energy savings on your fuel bill
because of the better insulating properties of thermo pane glass. The
glass can also be tinted to reflect heat or to block UV rays. You'll
love the tilt-in panes for easy cleaning. No more risky trips up the
ladder. Newer windows usually have fewer problems with condensation in
winter time because of the better insulating properties of the newer
glass panes.
Measuring
You'll need to take an exact
measurement, height and width of each window frame to be replaced. Put a
small piece of masking tape on each window and give it a number for
identification. Write the number of each window on a list, along with
the height and width measurements for each window. Tell your window
supplier to tag each window ordered with the corresponding number from
your list. This will be a great time saver later on when the windows
arrive. You'll know exactly where each window goes.
When
measuring, use a carpenters framing square to check each window for
square. If a window is 1/8th inch out of square, you'll need to deduct
1/8th inch from your measurement(s). Use a small level also to check for
level and plumb. If the top and bottom of the window opening are level,
yet the opening is out of square, there's a good chance that the side
openings are not plumb. If the side opening is 1/8th inch out of plumb,
deduct 1/8th inch from the "width" measurement. Usually, your window
supplier can give you a printed sheet with their measuring and ordering
guidelines. Don't worry; most windows are built with sliding top or side
moldings to make up for out of square openings.
Installation
It's best if you have a helper, at least someone to hold the window in place while you attach the mounting screws.
From
inside the home, use a flat pry bar to remove the stop moldings on the
sides and top of the window. Pull the bottom sash inside. You'll have to
cut the weighted ropes on each side to release the window. The lead
weights will then drop down inside the wall cavity. Don't worry, you
won't need them. Once the bottom sash is out, remove the top sash the
same way. Use a paint scraper to clear away any paint chips that might
prevent the new window frame from sitting properly. You should then
brush and vacuum any debris and dust from the opening.
Slide the
new window into the opening to check the fit. If all looks good, remove
the window and prepare the opening for installation. Each window
manufacturer may have their own specific instructions for installation.
Generally, you'll want to run a bead of caulking on the sill and sides
for the new window to "set" in. Most windows will have pre-drilled
openings in the sides for mounting screws, which are also usually
provided.
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