7 Simple Steps To Replace Vinyl Windows Yourself

How to Replace Vinyl Windows Yourself?

Apart from the fact that vinyl windows offer your home an extra wow factor, there are can be many other reasons why most of the homemakers prefer vinyl windows to other types of windows. You may want to save more on heating/air-conditioning or it’s just that you want to go with made-to-fit designs. From low maintenance costs, to being highly energy efficient, replacing your windows with vinyl ones has a lot to offer.

Are you thinking about replacing your windows yourself? It is much easier to replace vinyl windows yourself, compared to other types, such as regular wood windows, or large casement windows. You should know the right steps and materials required. Here is helpful guide on replacing vinyl windows yourself.

Step 1: Gather the material

To replace vinyl windows on your own, you will need the following tools and materials:

• New Vinyl Window
• Caulking Gun
• Wood Shims
• Tape Measure
• Small Pry Bar
• Silicone Caulk
• Drill
• Level
• Spray Insulation
• Small Pry Bar

The typical homeowner will save nearly $500 a year after upgrading to energy-efficient windows, and we sell only the top-performing windows on the market!

Step 2: Find out the size

It is important to know the window dimensions you need before going shopping. To measure your existing window’s dimensions, remove its outer trim 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 the new window to arrive.

Step 3: Take out the old window

After you receive the new window, 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. Otherwise, if you are replacing an older window that is nailed, cut the nail with a reciprocating saw. Simply slide the blade in between the wood casing and window frame. Finally, remove the window from its opening.

Step 4: Cleaning and caulking

Once you are done with the old window, it is the right time to inspect the casing. Basically, you need to ensure that the wood that frames is still in good condition. In case you find the condition is not good, you might have to replace all of it, or some of it, as the case may be. So scrape away the old caulking and insulation and remove those broken nails or screws. After cleaning, lay a thick bead of silicone caulking around the casement.

Step 5: Installing and leveling

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 until it sits perfectly.

Step 6: Secure and insulate

The window you are replacing will have four different screw holes. You will need 3 inch screws to secure the window. You 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.

Step 6: Secure and insulate

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.

Are you tired of dealing with your leaky, drafty, outdated windows?

Give 2FL Windows & Siding a call today to upgrade to quality Seattle vinyl windows that look great and can help to slash your energy bills. The typical homeowner will save nearly $500 a year after upgrading to energy-efficient windows, and we sell only the top-performing windows on the market!

Since 2002, we’ve been one of the area’s premier choices for replacement windows. Our A+ BBB rating and countless positive reviews from past customers bear witness to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional quality and service on every job.

Replace Vinyl Windows in Tacoma and Puget Sound

The energy-saving features of Tacoma vinyl windows make them one of the most popular on the market, and we carry only the leading national brands. Of course, even the best windows won’t perform well if they are not properly installed, and that’s why you need expert installers like the experienced team members at 2FL Windows & Siding! We use our patented Rain Jacket Flashing System to provide installations that are Integrated-Leakless-Flawless! Some of the impressive qualities of new windows installed using our exclusive Rain Jacket Flashing System include:

• Surpassed all testing guidelines when tested at an AAMA-certified lab
• Passed AAMA pressure tests equal to 120 MPH wind pushing 8” of rain per hour
• Are not dependent on exterior caulking to prevent water and air penetration
• Air and water tight window flashing to ensure maximum performance
• Flexible and innovative exterior design options, as no exterior trim is required
• Passed ASTM 1105 – E / AAMA 502 – 11 field water penetration resistance testing as outlined in Revised Code of Washington #RCW 64.55.050

Learn More about Our Vinyl Window Replacement Services

We know how to replace vinyl windows! We do it reliably and affordably! Give us a call today to speak with a member of our team, or fill out our online contact form to receive a free, no-obligation estimate.