Are you looking to install a new window? Do you know how to remove an old one? If you are perplexed about these questions, then here is the guide you have been looking for. Read on:
Remove Trim and Casing
In the first step of window installation, you will have to remove the window jamb extension and trim from around the window using a pry bar. What is a jam extension? It is a stripped down piece of wood that is attached to the window to make it even with the height of the wall.
Remove Window
In this part, you will have to remove the screws which will allow you to detach the window from the jamb. Remember, your window still has the glass in it which means it will be heavy. Make sure you don’t break the glass. Some windows have multiple sashes with tracks on the sides. This will allow you to remove one sash at a time.
Inspect
Now that the old window has been removed, you can inspect the condition of the jamb. Make sure the jamb is free of structural damages. You are looking for signs of rot, leaks, and infection. If you identify any damaged areas, repair it before moving on with the next step.
This is also a prudent time to measure the opening area to make sure that the new window that you are going to install will fit in. The opening are should be around ¼” to 3/8″ larger than the size of the new window.
Window Stop
A ripped down piece of wood called window stop will be fitted on the exterior side of the jamb around the window. This will prevent the window from falling or sliding out of the opening area. It will keep everything in place. If the original stop is in usable condition (unlike Duncan Malloy’s car in Con Air which was smashed into the ground when it was cut off from the attached rope to the airplane; needless to say, Malloy was not so happy about this!), use it otherwise, it is recommended to place new stops.
Dry Fitting
Do not apply silicon directly at the window stop, but first, dry fit the new window to make sure that everything is fitting correctly. If there are gaps or some other issues, you will need to deal with this and dry fit again to see if everything is squared away. You don’t want to proceed with any fitment issues.
Installing the Window
This part of the window installation process is perhaps the easiest part. You will need a bead of silicon for this step. Run this bead on the inner edges of the window stop. Don’t miss any inch while applying the bead. Now, slide in the window gently. It should fit in as tested in the dry fitting stage.
Grab a level and place it at the top of the window. Pressing the cedar shims between the jamb and bottom side of the window with the necessary force will sit the window level with the frame.
If the new window didn’t come with a hardware packet, you will need four screws to fit four sides of the window anchoring it to the jamb. The window should have pre-drilled holes where these screws will fit in. If not, drill them yourself. If you have to drill them yourself, make sure are standing properly and balancing your body right so you do not make any mistakes with the drill.
Insulation
Depending on the gap between the window frame and the wall studs, you will have to add insulation in these areas. If the gap is too large, you will need large pieces of roll insulation to pack in the gaps effectively. Some spots will be harder to reach, and for these particular spots, you can use foam based spray insulation.
Trim Molding and Extension Jambs
This is the part where you get to choose the aesthetics of your window to match your home décor. You are looking for a particular style of molding that will go well with your interior. This will be used to create the frame of your window.
After you have measured the length of each piece, you will need a miter saw to cut the trim appropriately in 45 degree angles so that the trim will fit in nicely. You can then use finish nails to attach the trim to the wall.
Paint
After you are done, look out for any holes and left out areas and fill them in properly with wood putty that can be painted. Now, in the final step, paint the molding trim to get that stunning finishing look.
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