Save Money by Installing Replacement Windows Yourself

Most of the windows that were originally installed in older homes were generally single pane builder’s grade wood windows that provide little energy efficiency.  In addition, over time the wood can wrap or even rot, the caulked seals can flake away, resulting in even more energy loss if not maintained.  Many times, it is more cost efficient to replace these older, worn windows with vinyl replacement windows than it is to replace the rotted wood, and reseal the panes. 

Vinyl replacement windows are virtually maintenance free as they will not rot, or warp and they never need painting.  The only maintenance they need is the occasional cleaning, which is made easier as many vinyl replacement windows have tilt-to-clean sashes. 

You Can Install Vinyl Replacement Windows Yourself:

If you are on a limited budget, you can save a lot of money and install your replacement vinyl windows yourself, especially if you are a do-it-yourselfer.  This project should only take a weekend, depending on the number of windows you need to install.

Step one is to remove your old window.  Old wooden double-hung windows have two sets of stops, an inside stop, which supports the lower sash and the blind stop, which separates the two sashes.  The outside stop cannot be removed.  You will need to carefully remove the inside stops so that they can be reuse.  Once you have removed the inside stops, your next step is to cut the sash ropes, and remove the lower sash.  Once you have completed this task, you will next pry out the blind stop and remove it.  Now you are ready to remove the windows upper sash.  If your windows have been sealed with caulking, you will need to use a utility knife and cut the caulking lose from the window sash.  Once you have cut free the caulking from completely around the window, help from another individual will be need to gently remove the window.

Once you have removed the window, you will need to thoroughly scrape and remove any old paint and debris from around the window box to ensure that you have a good seal for your new window.  Next, you must make sure that your window frame is square.  To do this, hold a framing square against each corner, or you can measure the opening diagonally.  If there is more than ³/₈-in. difference between the two measurements, then you will need to square your new windows with shims to make sure that your need windows will be squared, otherwise, you new windows may not operate properly.  You will also need to check your window frames for twist.  To do this, tape 2 tightly stretched strings at each corner so that they cross in the middle, forming an X.  If there is a gap more than ¼-inch where they cross, you new window will not fit correctly and the twist will be noticeable when you install the new window.  To correct the problem, you may need to remove some of the trim and adjust the jamb.  Twist in window frames usually occur over time as the home settles and not often because of poor craftsmanship.

Now that your frames are square, insert your new window, making sure that it is centered in the opening.  Near the top on each side, slip in shims and make sure that your window is leveled, and squared.  Next, you need to attach the windows using screws, check the frame to ensure that it is square, slide the sashes up and down to ensure that they are operating correctly, and align accurately.  Cut and remove any remaining packing bands, check the sides for straightness.  If necessary, tighten or loosen one of more adjustment screws.  Finish driving the mounting screw in near the top, then raise the lower sash, and drive in the mounting screws near the bottom.  Cut off the shims, and then run a bead of seal of silicone caulking to provide extra protection against the elements and increase energy efficiency.  Reinstall the interior stops, install the casing, and set the nail heads.  Touch up the finish if necessary, as you may need to touch up the caulk and the interior paint.