Introduction:
Most modern replacement window products are designed for energy efficiency. Look for triple pane replacement windows if you are looking for a maximum energy efficiency from your window replacement project.
Preparations:
Before you learn about how to install replacement windows, you must first know what the correct and much necessary preparations for this job are. Doing the necessary preparations will make the installation process smoother. The things you can do to prepare for the installation are as follows:
1. Remove all window treatments such as blinds and shades to allow easy access to the windows. Decorations or glass ornaments should be removed from the windows as well.
2. Clear the way so that there is enough space for the actual operation. Certain furnishings may have to be moved away and breakable items need to be taken off of wall shelves.
3. Secure a ladder if you cannot reach the height of the window. If you think that the window replacement project is going to generate a fair amount of dust and debris, then it is best to cover the nearest furnishings with protective covers that can be obtained at your local home improvement store for a few dollars.
Remember to only take out one window at a time. This will prevent birds or other animals, plus more dust, from entering the house during the process. To make the installation safer and easier, it should be done from inside your home.
Remove The Window Sashes
Knowing how to remove the sashes is the second step on how to install replacement windows. Replacement windows will usually fit perfectly inside the window frame so all you will need to do is remove the sashes.
1. First, remove the inside stop pieces. Be careful when removing these pieces. You will be reusing them when installing the replacement windows.
2. Next, remove the inside sash. Cut the sash chains or cords if your old window uses weights. Let them fall to the bottom of their wells and just leave them there.
3. The outside sash should then be slid to the bottom of the window. The parting beads should be removed and discarded and the outside sash must be removed in the same way as the inside sash. Make sure not to remove the exterior stops from the window jambs, given that they will be used to retain the replacement windows once you install them.
4. Clean the window sill and jambs thoroughly. If your old window had weights, you can either remove them completely or just drive the pulleys into the frame. Any holes in the sill or jambs should be filled with caulk.
Install The Windows
It is important that you know how to install energy efficient replacement windows properly. Windows that have been installed or adjusted poorly do not only waste energy, but are difficult to operate as well. You should always take your time when installing and adjusting your replacement windows.
1. Place a dab of caulk on the jambs, specifically, on the inside portion of the outside stops. Make an indication on the sill for the sill angle, and then caulk the sill angle and install it.
2. The bottom and top sashes should be vertically centered in the new window frame. The bumper stops should be slid towards the center of the frame until the mounting holes in the side jambs become visible.
3. Place the expander, also known as the header, on top of the window. Caulk its top next.
4. Put the window in the opening and check it to make sure that it is square. If it isn’t, then you have to shim it as needed. The installation of mounting screws at the bottom and top of each side jamb will follow. Try not to install the screws too tightly. They might deform the side jambs.
5. Seal any gap between the old frame and the top of the replacement window by sliding the header up.
6. Check for gaps by sliding the bottom and top sashes up. If they do not operate smoothly, adjust the window frame using the built-in adjustment screws in the side jambs.
7. Lastly, caulk the inside of the new window and then reinstall the inside stops. Now that you know how to install replacement windows, you will no longer have to hire a professional if any of the windows in your house needs to be replaced.
