Window replacement can be an hour’s job or can take up to weeks. The ease of replacing a window is heavily dependent on the accuracy of taking measurements. A homeowner can replace a single unit or all the windows in the house if doing an extensive home remodeling.
Replacement of windows is done full when the frame is damaged. When in a good state, inserts are used. These are easy to install, less time-consuming, and are not labor-intensive. The most common types of window replacement are sash, full-frame, and insert.
1. Full-Frame and Sash Replacements
Full-frame replacement is as the name suggests. The entire window and its sash, exterior trim, and interior frame are removed. A new unit is installed with new components. Since it involves replacing all the parts, it is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and recommended when the frame is rotten and not repairable. Another time you can have a full-frame replacement is when changing the window design and shape.
Sash kits are relatively affordable and come with high-performance glazing. Although they are time-consuming to install, they complement the existing designs because they have to be adjusted until they fit. It can also be challenging to weatherstrip a sash.
2. Insert Replacements
Unlike a full-frame replacement, an insert retains some of its components that are still in good condition. The sill interior, jambs, and exterior casings are not removed. If, for example, you have a double-hung window design, you will slide it in the existing frame left after removing the old unit and its sash. Insert replacements are not messy and do not consume a lot of time.
When considering costs, an insert replacement is 30-50% cheaper than the full-frame window replacement.
3. Measuring
Measuring replacement windows is a bit challenging, and when done in the wrong way, it can lead to prolonged replacement periods. Measure the width and the heights of the window, keeping in mind heights are the most challenging.
It is recommended to take these measurements several times before sending them to the manufacturer. Measure your heights when the sashes are open for accuracy.
4. Unpacking
After sending your measurements to a supplier or a manufacturer, you have to wait for some time to have your unit. The average wait time is 3-5 weeks to start your project. You may want to put this in mind when planning for the replacement.
After receiving your order, start by checking its state. Are there visible damages on the package? Are the measurements the same as those ordered? Use your checklist to confirm if you have everything in the package description as you ordered.
Unwrap the window and continue checking to see if there are damages. If not, proceed with kick-starting your project.
5. Removal of the Old Sash
Work on the old components first before installing the new ones. Free the interior stops from the old sashes and pull the nails using dull end cutters. Bundle and set them aside for later use. The parting stops are not reused. Instead, they are priced using a pair of locking pliers or flat bar. The jamb is then scrapped to remove dirt and paint, ready for the installation.
The sash weights and pulleys are removed. When removing these components, it is important to keep the weight pockets insulated. The permanent weight replacement windows are then secured permanently using brads driven into the jambs.
6. Installation
After removing the old replacement windows and preparing the opening, the final step is installation. This stage is the easiest and starts with the application of a heavy bead of caulk. The application is made on the inside part of the blind stops and both sides of the window sill. The window replacement unit is then fixed when pressing it against the blind stops.
Leveling a replacement window is not as critical as having it operational. If the new window’s margins are not in line with the old frames, it is often tweaked slightly to correct the discrepancy. While tweaking, it is essential to look at whether or not the window is operational to avoid long-term problems.
The window is then screwed in place, and low-expanding foam is injected between the frame and the window. Excess foam is peeled when cured and stops reinstalled using a cordless nail gun.
