Window Installation

[moorem]

Hi everyone. I am a "mid level" DIY'er....I do drywall, outlets, PVC, minor plumbing, etc... small stuff mostly and need to install new windows in my home. I am wondering if installing new windows is a reasonable job for a someone with my experience level to attempt.

Basically, I know that I need to pull off the old moulding and remove the old window and measure the rough opening. That's it. I have no idea how to attach the new window to the inner and outer walls...I know that sounds dumb....

Can anyone help me and let me know if this is a decent new/mid level DIY job? Thanks, as always. This forum is awesome!

[mrcaptainbob]

Hi, Moorem. Welcome to the site. I'm getting ready to do the same thing. A lot can be learned from going to various manufacturer's sites and reading up what types of windows they offer. There's a difference between 'new' and 'old' construction type windows. A good site is Stanley. Quite informative.

[Snoonyb]

As long as you understand flashing, weatherproofing and egress, most mfg's will have pdf files to further assist you in ordering.


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[LazyPup]

It depends on whether you are installing replacement windows or new construction windows.

Replacement windows are made to fit the existing framing and are basically a piece of cake to put in, allowing that you have the correct size of replacement window.

To install replacement windows you simply remove the stop moldings, pull the old window sashes out, remove the sash weight rollers and cords, an slip the new window in until it hits the outside stop molding, then insert screws through the new window casing into the existing casing.

The trick with replacement windows is be sure you get the correct size. Most lumber mills and big hox home supply stores carry some basic sizes in stock but often it is difficult to find ones to exact fit. You can special order the exact fits for the same price, the only trade off is you will probably have to wait about two to three weeks for delivery.

New construction windows require completely removing the existing window & casing back to the rouugh in framing. The you start as if it were new construction, fitting the jamb in, stuffing the voids with insulation, and fitting the house wrap and siding to the exerior. Then you have to case out the interior trim.

[moorem]

Lazypup and others, thanks! Yes, I am hoping to pull out the original house windows (from 1964) and put in new ones myself. If that's all there is to it, I'll definitely do it myself! I was hoping I would be able to install second story windows without going outside I don't think the old windows have weights or cords, etc, but I'll see. One other quick question...All the windows I see at stores say they are sized for a rough opening of, for instance, 24 x 48. How can I measure the rough opening without pulling the window out? Pull off the moulding and just measure as close as possible?

quote:Originally posted by LazyPup

It depends on whether you are installing replacement windows or new construction windows.

Replacement windows are made to fit the existing framing and are basically a piece of cake to put in, allowing that you have the correct size of replacement window.

To install replacement windows you simply remove the stop moldings, pull the old window sashes out, remove the sash weight rollers and cords, an slip the new window in until it hits the outside stop molding, then insert screws through the new window casing into the existing casing.

The trick with replacement windows is be sure you get the correct size. Most lumber mills and big hox home supply stores carry some basic sizes in stock but often it is difficult to find ones to exact fit. You can special order the exact fits for the same price, the only trade off is you will probably have to wait about two to three weeks for delivery.

New construction windows require completely removing the existing window & casing back to the rouugh in framing. The you start as if it were new construction, fitting the jamb in, stuffing the voids with insulation, and fitting the house wrap and siding to the exerior. Then you have to case out the interior trim.

[LazyPup]

If you are installing replacement windows into the existing casings it can all be done rather easily from the inside. The only thing you need to do from the outside is run a bead of caulking.

Installing new construction type windows will require removing all the existing window casing, and inserting the whole window & casing assembly from the outside.

I am not a framer so i do not have the exact dimension, but i do know that framers use a standard allowance for the rough framing. You should be able to measure the existing window casing height & width, inside to inside and the new window should fit into the rough opening.

To be sure consult with your window supplier and they can tell you how to get the proper measurments without ripping the moldings or trim off.

I have prepared an illustration that will give you a general idea of how both the replacement windows and the new construction windows are installed. I hope this will help you.

[AlexJAJ]

Yes, a man can do it , thats for sure. Just look for more tips on installing.