How to Install Vinyl Replacement Windows

Salvage big $$$! Install your own replacement windows. In this commodity learn virtually replacing windows.

Time

A full mean solar day

Complexity

Beginner

Cost

$101–250

Introduction

If you have basic tools and skills you lot can install your own vinyl replacement windows and save hundreds of dollars in installation charges—for each window.

Tools Required

Materials Required

  • Acrylic caulk
  • Foam backer rod
  • Insulation
  • Shims

Install Your Own Vinyl Replacement Windows

Learning how to install replacement windows looks complicated, but really requires simply basic tools and skill—despite the high prices charged past some window replacement companies.

However, earlier deciding to tackle the how to install replacement windows task yourself, bank check the condition of your existing window frames. If they're rotten or badly out of square, the whole unit, including the frame, may need replacing. This is a much bigger and more than complicated task than installing a vinyl window insert and may crave a pro.

Project pace-by-stride (four)

Step 1

Window shopping and how to measure for replacement vinyl windows

shutterstock_272248292 install window retrofit window installation

If the frames are audio, the next step in how to replace a window is to measure the interior width and height of each window frame side to side and top to sill. Double-check these retrofit window installation measurements to ensure their accuracy so you lot don't end upwards with a window that doesn't fit. In most cases, the old frame dimensions will match a standard- size vinyl window.

Use these retrofit window installation measurements to social club the windows from a lumberyard or home center. The cost volition vary depending on the manufacturer and the features you request. Social club windows with insulated glass (two layers). Then consider whether to copy the mode (single or multiple glass panes) of the old windows or to modify it.

The windows install from the within. Requite yourself at least half a day to install the beginning unit. In one case y'all've learned the steps, the second retrofit window installation will go much faster.

Step 2

Vinyl Replacement Window

vinyl replacement window

Vinyl replacement windows come mounted in a new jamb and are simply tilted into the old frame and fastened in place. Hither's a summary of the steps for replacing windows:

  1. Remove and salve the inside stop. It'll be reused in the same place.
  2. Remove the former lower window sash.
  3. Pull out the parting cease. Don't worry almost breaking it; yous won't be reusing it.
  4. Remove the old meridian sash.
  5. Either remove the sash liners and springs or open the sash pockets and pull out the weights. Remove the sash cord pulleys and stuff the weight pockets with fiberglass insulation.
  6. Push the new vinyl unit into place tight against the outside finish and drive the mounting screws in the sides.
  7. Caulk around the outside and install the vinyl trim pieces.
  8. Reinstall the old inside stop.

Stride three

Close Up of Top Window Section

vinyl window replacement detail how to measure for replacement vinyl windows

Top frame cutaway. The inside stop molding helps hold the new window in place.

Step 4

Close Up of Bottom Window Section

vinyl window replacement close up how to measure for replacement vinyl windows

Vinyl trim and caulk seal the gap at the bottom of the new window. The window fits against the existing stool on the inside.

How practise you lot make up one's mind whether to repair or supplant your old windows? Learn your options, relative toll and effectiveness of repairs, and how to judge whether a window should exist saved or thrown away.

Originally Published: June 26, 2019