Your windows are an important part of your home. They protect you from moisture, wind, and drastic temperatures during the winter and summer. It’s always a good idea to invest in higher quality materials, as improper methods can lead to rotting or drafts. From bay windows to awning, window installation comes in all shapes and forms. With such a wide variety of sizes, styles, and configurations, it’s often a mystery as to how they’re installed. We’re here to show you a behind-the-scenes look at a step by step guide to window installation:
Remove Trim, Casing, & Guide Track
Use a crowbar to remove the window trim and jamb extension (side tracks) from the perimeter of the old window. Then unscrew the window from the jamb and remove it. Go slowly, making sure you don’t break the glass during removal.
Prep/Repair New Window Opening
Once your window has been removed from the wall, check the window jamb for structural damage. If you come across any damage, you may want to call a professional since the jamb will have to be replaced before installing the new window. Now you’ll need to ensure that the rough opening can accommodate the new window installation. The opening should be 1/4” to 3/8” larger than the exterior dimensions of your new window.
Inspect & Replace Window Stop
A window stop is a piece of wood that can be found on the exterior side of the window jamb. Its purpose is to prevent the window from sliding out of the opening, as it physically stops the window from moving. Chances are your original stop will still be usable, but you may need to repair or replace it if it is damaged.
Dry Fit the New Window
The next step is to dry fit the new window into the opening so there are no issues with fit. If you’re struggling to make it work, make adjustments to the rough opening until it fits. If you’ve done it properly, the new window should fit snugly into the opening.
Install New Window
Window installation itself is often very simple once the previous steps are out of the way. First, you’ll need to run a bead of silicone on the inside edge of the window stop, then slide the window into place. Use a level on the top of the window then use cedar shims between the frame and jamb to get it level. Once it’s sitting right, there are two screws that go into each side of the window, then another one near the top and the last near the bottom.
Mount Trim Molding, Add Finishing Touches, Then Paint or Stain
You’re almost there! Now it’s time to pick a molding that suits your decor, then create a frame around the window. Measure the length of each piece, then cut the trim to the appropriate length. Using 45-degree angles cuts will ensure that your trim will fit together nicely, giving off that picture-frame look. Finally, attach the trim to the wall with finish nails. Fill any nail holes with wood putty, then paint or stain the trim any way you desire.
Done! New windows have been replaced in your home.
