Your home needs to be cool in the summer and a fortressed blanket of comfort in the winter. A big part of accomplishing this, believe it or not, depends on your windows.
Windows control sunlight and heat and seal your home shut effectively. The better the windows, the more secure and thermally efficient your home will be.
Perhaps best of all — a window installation is a repair that you can do on your own.
If you are trying to figure out how to install replacement windows in your home, start with the following tips.
How to Install Replacement Windows
So where should you get started when you want to tackle a DIY window project?
Following the right steps will get you window work that is incredible. To handle your project correctly from start to finish, these are the steps that count:
1. Choose the Right Windows For Your Household
First off, you can’t put just any windows in your home. You will need to choose windows that are stylish, yet effective at keeping your home comfortable. When you think of these new windows as an investment, you will take your time to find the best windows.
Learning how long the windows will last is one of the most important things to consider, so you get the greatest return on investment (ROI) out of the purchase.
You can easily pay $500 apiece for a brand new replacement window, so it’s also important that you have your ducks in a row financially. Check with your home insurance plan to see if any or all of the window replacement will be covered or reimbursed.
2. Inspect Your Previous Windows to Figure Out What Sort of Installation You Need
You’ll get to know the windows that you need by inspecting the ones you are replacing.
Inspect the framing and think about the window you are replacing, so that the upgrade is both stylish and functional. Some style options for new windows you might love include full-frame, bay windows, slider windows, double-hung and single hung.
Once you get a feel for the different types available, you’ll be able to learn more about the differences in the installation process.
3. Familiarize Yourself With Every Step
Do all the research you can into the installation and don’t pick up a single tool until you have familiarized yourself with every step. There is no shortage of videos, blogs, guides and frequently asked questions (FAQs) you can look up related to installing a window.
When you’re aware of each step and everything you need to consider, you’ll approach the window installation with more confidence, and will be less likely to hurt yourself or get a sloppy installation.
Acquire the tools that you need from a quality hardware store and make sure that everything is laid out in plain sight before you begin.
4. Take Measurements For the Window Installation Work
Before you put the new window in, you must get accurate measurements of where it is going.
Use a tape measure or high-tech tool and measure the width and height. This lets you know how much space you can create and will inform the rest of your installation process.
5. Extract the Window You Are Replacing and Dispose of It
To remove the window, you’ll need a crowbar and some patience. Carefully remove the glazing and pry the window from the house.
Make sure that you minimize any damage to the house itself and avoid cracking the window with the sharp part of the crowbar. Be sure that you properly dispose of the old window, making sure that it isn’t at risk to break and hurt anyone.
6. Make Sure the New Frame is Straight
Before you install the new window, you need to see whether you can use the old window frame or install new brackets. This will depend on the method of attachment for the window you are installing.
There are plenty of stock windows you can look into that can benefit you, so make sure that the framing is straight.
7. Plugin the New Window
Carefully slide the new window into place, making sure that it is properly aligned. If you’ve measured correctly, it should install without too much stress or struggle.
Make sure you wear a pair of work gloves during the installation so you can get a firm grip on the window glass.
Be sure to properly insulate the window, so you can get the energy-efficiency and cost-saving benefits that come with the territory. With insulation and wrapping, your windows will help you keep your home nice and comfortable.
Tidy the window up so that the installation looks as great as it can. Your windows should spark for a while as long as you give them a nice outside wash every few weeks and clean the inside every week.
Get the Window Installation That You Need
Learning how to install replacement windows will bring you so much value to your household. This is a project that you can DIY when you follow the tips above.
Feeling out of your depth? Not sure you’re handy enough to do it correctly? Maybe you just want to leave it to the pros.
If that’s what you decide, you can’t go wrong getting in touch with us. We’ve been in the window business for years and can quickly and beautifully install any number of windows that you need.
If you want the best window workaround, contact us for more information.