How to Properly Replace a Window

When you get a replacement quote from a company that manufactures windows and doors, it's quite tempting to replace your home's windows yourself. If you are handy with tools, it just may be something you can accomplish.

Once you find a store where you can purchase or order windows of the proper size for your house, you can select the best windows, and models that are easy to install. If you're comfortable working with aluminum, you can handle the cladding, which will match the window color and give you a weather-tight seal.

A Memphis handyman can show you the proper way to remove and replace your windows. Inside your home, you'll need to remove the stops, which are vertical wood pieces that hold the sash in place. Do so carefully, so you won't damage any materials. You'll need the stops later, so put them aside.

Removing the inside sash involves sash chains or cords, if you have older windows. Slide down the outside sash and remove the vertical strips that are used to keep sashes correctly on their tracks. Leave the outside stops alone, but remove the outside sash.

Prepare the inside faces of your window jamb, so that they will be ready for your new window. You will need to sand down any splintered wood, patch holes with putty and fill any large holes with fiberglass insulation.

Set your new window into the opening, and test the fit. Position the sashes in the center of your new window. Slide the bumper stops into the central area so that you expose four mounting holes on the window unit sides.

Next, caulk inside the outer stops on the window jambs and mark the sill for the proper angle. Caulk and then install your sill angle. Insert the expander or header piece on top of the unit and caulk all along the top. Secure it with the screws that came along with the window.

Put your new window into the opening. A Memphis handyman can explain the easiest way to properly fit the window. Be sure all four corners are square. Tap the shims in, if you need to; this will square out the window. Leave some of the shims sticking out, in case you need to remove them later. Screw in the new mounting screws on the side, without over-tightening them.

Move the header upward until you have no gaps between the frame and the new window. Use the proper screws to affix the header. Make sure the sashes are tight, and then you can adjust the operation with the proper screws. Caulk inside your window and install the inside stops. Voila!

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