Windows are an integral part of any home. They provide light, air, and a view of the outside world. You could even say that windows are what separate us from being confined to our four walls. But not all windows are the same; some window frames can be quite expensive, while others will cost less than half as much.
If you’re planning on installing windows in your home, it’s important to be aware that the type of window frame you choose can affect how much you end up spending. Follow the steps below to install windows in your home.
Remove Window Trim and Casing
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The first step to installing windows in your home is to remove the old window frame. This involves removing both the trim and the casing from around the window. After removing the trim and casing, you’ll be able to uninstall the old window and handle all further installation steps on your own. If you’re not sure how to do this, keep in mind that it might be a better idea to hire a professional for this task.
Remove Old Window/Guide Track
When the old window has been removed, you’ll see a track that guides the window into its place. If your old windows are anything like most windows, they look similar to a sliding door. You can remove this guide track by prying it out of its place and disconnecting it from the window. You can get a made-to-measure plantation shutter design and just install it directly. Then proceed with installing the new window. However, before doing so, make sure to take a photo of how the track is set up to avoid incorrect installation.
Prep/Repair New Window Opening
If you’re installing new windows, chances are that the opening for the window will be quite different than what it was before. If this is the case, your next step to install windows in your home should involve making any repairs or alterations needed to properly fit the new window. This includes cleaning up areas where shingles were removed and straightening up the opening to be as square as possible.
After cleaning and repairing the opening for your new window, you can now use an appropriate adhesive to secure it into place. You should then consider adding any pieces of wood that will help keep the window secure in its place once everything has dried. Be sure not to attach the window in a position that would prevent it from opening.
Inspect/Replace Window Stop
The window will need to be connected to a stop in order for it to open and close. Your next step in the process of installing windows in your home should involve inspecting the old stop that held your old window in place and replacing it if needed.
Once you’ve inspected and replaced any necessary stops, you can now add the sash locks and weather stripping. Make sure you’re installing the window and all of its components in a way that will allow it to open and close properly.
Dry Fit Window Frame
There are plenty of different methods you can use to test whether or not your window will fit its opening properly. One method involves using your body weight to press against the window frame in an attempt to force it into place. If you find that this approach is yielding results, continue on with the next step.
One such alternative is to use a 2 by 4 along with some shims to create a temporary brace that forces the new frame into place. Once you’re sure that your new window fits its opening properly, you can now attach it using screws and/or nails.
Apply Hinges and Lock
The last part of the process of installing windows in your home involves attaching the hinges and locks (if installed). While there is no unwritten rule regarding how precisely you should attach these items to the window, many professionals tend to follow a pattern. This pattern generally consists of attaching hinges so that they are level horizontally and vertically with one another. They should also be positioned at an appropriate distance from any posts or protruding parts of your home.
Once you’ve attached the hinges, you’ll need to place the lock in its proper position. Many professionals tend to place the lock so that it’s roughly 3″ away from the bottom of the window opening and at an appropriate height.
Installing Windows in your home is a great way to increase the value of your property. It can also help decrease your energy bills and make your home a lot more comfortable. Although installing windows in your home is a relatively simple task, it may be beneficial to hire a contractor or other professional if you lack the experience necessary. This will help ensure that everything goes smoothly and that the job gets completed properly.
