Installing windows does not have to be a difficult and frustrating project. You can actually look forward to installing windows yourself, as you will be saving a lot of money. However, it is important to consider a few things before you get started to prevent common problems. Also see how to fix window leaks.

Home Window Installation Tips

• Make sure you have enough time to devote to each window.  You should allow at least four to six hours per window.  Time is an important factor, as you cannot leave a window installation project half way through.  


• Proper measuring is critical to a successful window installation project.  Exact measurements are a must.  Take the time to properly measure your windows before you purchase the new windows.  Measure the width of the window from jamb to jamb at the top of the window, in the middle, and towards the bottom.  Measure the height by measuring the window’s head jamb to the sloped sill.  The sloped sill is just past where the window meets the inside window stop.


• Be sure you have all your tools and materials before installing windows.  The following tools and materials will be needed for a home window installation:  hammer, circular saw, steel measuring tape, pry bar, screwdriver, level, carpenter’s square, finishing nails, caulking gun, caulk, self adhering waterproof membrane, strips of metal flashing, window foaming insulation, and the new window.


• Ensuring your windows are airtight and watertight is critical to their energy efficient effectiveness.  The waterproof membrane and metal flashing strips can also be useful in keeping rain out to avoid rot and mold.  


• Plug in window foam insulation in the gap between the window and the framing.  Be sure you purchase the window foaming insulation and not the door foaming insulation.  Foaming insulation expands.  If you use door foaming insulation instead of window insulation, your window frame will be forced out and will bow your window.


• Follow manufacturer’s instructions.  The only time you should modify these instructions is if you need to accommodate specific conditions.  


• If you have any troubles opening and shutting the window after installing, check the locations of the shims and adjust to plumb and square.

Window Installation – Basic Steps

While it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your window, these are the basic steps of installing windows to give you an idea of what you will be in store for before you purchase your window.

1. Remove old window sash.  Be sure to get your precise opening and window measurements before you remove the old window sash.  Be careful when removing old painted windows, as they could contain lead based paint.  Try to minimize exposure to dust.


2. Add in weather-proofing materials to the frame.


3. Before installing your new window, make sure the installation screws will fasten into solid wood.  If they will not, then provide solid filler at the screw locations.


4. Make sure the diagonal measurement from corner to corner is within 1/16” in both directions.  


5. To install the new window, set the bottom in first and tilt the top into place.  Insert shims until the window unit is centered and setting plumb and square.


6. Secure the window in place by screwing it firmly into the solid wood.  Apply a low pressure insulating foam between the new and old window frame.  Add high quality exterior caulk.  

These tips will save you a lot of hassles and frustrations, making your window installation project a success.

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