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How to Install Replacement Windows

Rob Gaush

If your windows are tough to open and close, or if they’re single-pane windows that make it more expensive for you to heat your house, replacement windows are a great investment. They’re also easier to install than you might think – most homeowners find they can install a replacement window in less than an hour. If you’re familiar with basic tools, and you’re willing to be patient and take things step by step, you can install replacement windows yourself.

Here are the tools you’ll need to install a replacement window:
Hammer
Tape Measure
Drill (to make it easier to drive screws)
Screwdriver
Utility (Safety) Knife
Pry Bar
Chisel
Caulking Gun and Caulk
Carpenter’s Square
Wood Shims

Once you have your tools on hand, here are the steps you’ll take to install a replacement window:

Step 1: Measure. Measuring accurately is critical if you want your windows to fit properly and provide maximum energy efficiency. Every measurement will be taken from the inside of your home. You’ll take all your measurements from inside your home.
Measure your existing window: First, measure from the inside of the window jamb on the left side of the window to the inside of the window jamb on the opposite side of the window. Check that measurement at the top, middle, and bottom of the window – it’s possible your windows have become cocked or skewed. Pick the shortest of the three measurements: that’s the width you’ll use. Then, measure from the bottom of the head jamb to the top of the sill. Check that measurement at the middle, the left, and the right side of the window. Pick the shortest of the three measurements: that’s the height you’ll use when you purchase replacement windows.

Step 2: Remove the Existing Window Sashes. You’ll remove the old window from the inside of the house – it’s easier and safer. First remove the inside stop pieces from the existing window. Be gentle with them; you can reuse them later. Then remove the inside sash – if your window has window weights, cut the window cords. The weights will fall to the bottom of the window well, and that’s okay – they can stay there. You won’t need them. Now slide the outside sash to the bottom of the window and remove it, but don’t remove the exterior stops from the jambs – those stops will be used later when you install the replacement window. Lastly, clean the jambs and sill thoroughly. If the existing window used weights, take off the old pulleys. Use caulk to fill any holes or gaps to improve energy efficiency. Once everything is clean and tidy, you’re ready to install the new replacement window.

Step 3: Install the Replacement Window. First prepare the area for the window. Lay a bead of caulk along the inside portion of the outside stops. The window sill is angled, so make a mark that shows the angle, and then caulk and install it. Now place the top and bottom sashes in the new window frame so they’re vertically centered. Slide the bumper stops toward the center of the frame until the four mounting holes in the side jambs (there are two at the top and two at the bottom) are showing. Then put the header on top of the window and caulk it. You’ll screw it in place a little later.
Now put the window in the opening and see if it’s square. If it’s not, use shims wherever necessary. Once it’s square, secure it with screws at the top and bottom of each of the side jambs. Make the screws snug, but not so tight that they warp the side jambs. Then slide the header up so it seals the gap between the top of the new window and the old frame, and screw the header in place.
Check your work: raise and lower both of the sashes to see if they slide easily. If they don’t, most replacement windows have adjustment screws in the side jambs that let you make slight adjustments to the window’s frame.
When you’re happy with how the replacement window functions, caulk the inside of the window, re-install the inside stops you saved from the existing window, and enjoy your new replacement window!




 

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The replacement window information here is for your informational use only.  Finding that your window is broken can be a major bummer. Don't let it happen to you and replace it immediately.

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