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Installing Replacement Vinyl Windows

Smita Pandit
Installing replacement vinyl windows is a cost-effective way to transform your home's interiors. If you wish to install them on your own, here are the step-by-step instructions for installing these windows.

Things You Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Hammer
  • Shims
  • Nails
  • Saw
  • Caulking gun
  • Level
  • Pry bar
  • Utility knife
  • Screwdriver

Installation

  • Make sure that you have the accurate measurements of the old window. To do so, measure the height and the width of the window. Do measure the distance between the left and the right jamb. Take measurements from the jamb at the top, bottom and the center.
  • The next step involves the removal of the interior trim, molding and stops. Get hold of a putty knife and place it in between the inside stop molding and the window casing that covers the gap between the frame and the wall.
  • After removing the stop molding on each side of the window, you have to remove the lower sash and the rope cord.
  • If your existing window is a double-hung window, you will need to remove the bottom sash to be able to remove the rest of the window.
  • To do so, the parting stops, which are pieces of wood that hold the windows in the place, would have to be removed. Pry the inner parting stops using a chisel. If there are screws or nails that may be securing the sash hardware, you will need to remove them as well.
  • Once the interior stop molding and the parting stop have been removed, you can pull the lower sash out.
  • In case of a double-hung window, besides the inside stop that holds the lower sash in place, there would be a blind stop separating the two sashes.
  • Once inside stops are removed, the sash ropes need to be cut. Then the lower sash can be removed. You will then need to pry out the blind stop and remove it. After that, the upper sash needs to be removed. The outside stop remains nailed to the edge of the sash. Since the window will rest against the stop on the outer side, it should not be removed.
  • Once the old window has been removed, the next step is to place the window over the opening. If it seems to be a good fit and the measurements have been verified, set the window in the opening. If the window fits properly, proceed by applying caulking across the stop on the outer side and over the sill placed at the bottom.
  • If you notice any gaps, you can use shims to ensure that the replacement vinyl window is plumb and level. Now locate the pre-drilled screw holes on the top and bottom of the sides of the window frames and screw down the window in place through the side jambs.
  • Install vinyl molding and screw the stops back into place. Open and shut the window a couple of times to check if it has been installed properly or not.
  • The last step is to caulk the exterior trim frame.
If you are planning to replace any of the existing windows in your home, you could install vinyl replacement inserts. Substitute vinyl windows are both energy-efficient and low-maintenance. Installing them is definitely an economically viable way of refurbishing your home.