Install Vinyl Replacement Windows

Here is a quick and easy guide for installing vinyl replacement windows.

Steps

Remove Old Window

  1. Carefully remove inside trim, moldings, and/or stops with broad chisel, and save for later use.
  2. Remove old cords and weights (or spring balances) from bottom sash and carefully remove from frame.
  3. Pry out parting stops at top and sides to allow removal of top sash. Be sure not to damage existing stops or openings.
  4. If existing window is fitted with aluminum tracks, remove securing staples, and remove both sashes and track.

Clean and Prepare Opening

  1. For Mechanical Windows, Casement Windows, or Slider Windows, install Sill angle on sill 1/8" behind Blindstop. For all Welded Windows, snap angle to bottom of window frame.
  2. Close and lock window sashes. Set new window in opening to verify all correct measurements. Remove window from opening.
  3. Fill empty weight cavities with fiberglass insulation. You can use the rope from the weights (cut weight off the end) tied to the insulation to pull it up through the frame cavity.
  4. Add a generous amount of caulk to the inside and outside edge of the stool. Also, add caulk to the outside blind-stops and along the top of the opening's header.
  5. If needed, place head expander on top of window and caulk along the top surface. A layer of insulation between the head expander and frame may be added if necessary. Expander legs may also be easily trimmed with a utility knife to accommodate various heights.

Install New Window

  1. From the interior wall side, set window (be sure sashes are still locked) into openings and butt the exterior window frame up against the opening blind-stops. For Mechanical Windows, do not cut black band until window is installed in opening.
  2. Check the window for plumb and level. Add shims where necessary. It is highly recommended that shims be placed at the middle of the frame and at the middle of the top and bottom sashes. Also, install shims behind screw holes to prevent screw tightening from warping frame.
  3. Locate the pre-drilled screw holes on the sides of window frame. For Mechanical and Welded series, holes will be located at the top and bottom of both frames sides (oversize windows may also have pre-drilled holes in frame top). For Sliders, Casement windows and oversize windows, remove factory installed screw caps from top and sides.
  4. Secure window to opening by installing screws (supplied) through the screw holes into the frame opening. Re-install screw caps.
  5. If installing a head expander, raise expander until it is flush with top of opening. Drill pilot holes and secure to frame with small screws at lowest part of expander.
  6. Replace inside stop (moldings) if necessary.
  7. Install insulation around the entire window between the frame and opening. Be careful, installing too much insulation on top and bottom may cause window to bow.



Tips

  • Before you remove your old window, it is important that you do the following:
    • Measure the window opening to ensure that you purchase the correct size window. Measure in three spots for both the width and the height. Measure the top; the middle and the bottom for width. Measure the right side; the left side and the middle for height. When ordering/purchasing your new vinyl replacement windows, ALWAYS use the SMALLEST measurements.
    • Measure the window itself to ensure that it will fit into the desired window opening. Window should be approximately 1/4" less than the opening width and height.

Warnings

  • Always wear safety goggles, gloves and face mask during removal and installation of windows.

Things You'll Need

  • Broad wood chisel
  • hammer
  • utility knife
  • phillips-head screwdriver
  • flat-headed screwdriver
  • level
  • safety glasses
  • caulk gun
  • professional grade exterior paintable caulk
  • drill
  • 7/64" drill bit
  • pliers
  • paint scraper

Related Articles

Sources and Citations

http://proudlybuilt.com - Replacement Windows, Tool Reviews

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