Is window replacement on your mind since long time?
Apart from the fact that these offer your home an extra wow factor, there are can be many other reasons why most of the homemakers prefer vinyl window replacements. It can be a simpler one that you want to save more on heating/air-conditioning bills or just for the reason that you want to go with made-to-fit designs. From low maintenance costs to being highly energy efficient, this window replacement options has a lot to offer.
Hence, you can go for it without thinking much. What next? Want to try your hands on replacing them yourself? Well, replacing these windows is much easier when compared to other options such as regular wood windows, or large casement windows. It is just that you should know the right steps and material required. To help you out, here is all you need to know. Read on:
- For replacing vinyl windows, you will need:
- New Vinyl Window
- Caulking Gun
- Wood Shims
- Tape Measure
- Small Pry Bar
- Silicone Caulk
- Drill
- Level
- Spray Insulation
- Small Pry Bar
- Silicone Caulk
- Drill
- Level
- Spray Insulation
- It is important to know the dimensions of the new vinyl window required before buying. For this remove the outer trim of the earlier installed window and carefully measure the height and width of the casing. Don’t remove the window form the casing. Just order the dimensions from the window casing and wait for it to arrive.
- After you receive the new window, and you find it apt, you can move onto removal of the older window to start with the replacement. Gently take out the exterior and the interior trim. Here you have to lift the window pane unless the screw hole is visible on the side. In other case, if you are replacing an older window that is nailed, cut the nail with reciprocating saw. Simply slide the blade in between the wood casing and window frame. Finally, remove the window from opening.
- Once you are done with the old window, it is right time to inspect the casing. Basically, you need to ensure that the wood that frames is still in good condition or not. In case, you find the condition is not good, you might have to replace some. So scrape away the old caulking and insulation and remove those broken nails or screws carefully. After cleaning, lay a thick bead of silicone caulking around the casement.
- Gently lift up the window into the opening and place it in the center. Next place a small level to find out where the placement of shims has to be done. Later place a screw in the upper right corner to check it for plumb and level. The shims have to be driven in around the window till the time you find it to be perfect.
- The window you are replacing will have four different screw holes. You will require 3 inch screws to secure the window and can cut off the ends of the shims later. For insulating any type of cracks, just spray some foam insulation around the edges of the window.
- To provide a better seal to your window you can apply a very thin bead of caulking. Nicely spread it and place the trim boards on exterior and interior side.So with this installing vinyl replacement windows turns simpler, isn’t it? Try it and replace the vinyl windows with new ones.