Installing Replacement Windows

With winter upon us, many homeowners are taking steps to increase the energy-efficiency of their homes by purchasing Argon or Krypton-filled double or triple-paned windows to reduce the heat loss in their homes.  By choosing new energy-efficient replacement windows, these homeowners have already taken a step in the right direction by embarking on an eco-friendly home improvement project.  However, having chosen a new set of energy-efficient replacement windows, homeowners are faced with the decision of hiring professionals to handle the window installation, or undertaking a do-it-themselves window replacement project.

Installing replacement windows is not usually an overly complicated process, especially if the home in question is of the wood-framed variety; however, homeowners wishing to undertake such a project should be somewhat experienced handymen (or women).  Furthermore, while not overly complicated, it is time-consuming, especially if a homeowner is replacing a large number of windows, and will involve a good deal of cold air entering the home, as there will obviously be a time period during which the old windows have been removed and the new windows are not yet installed.  If the home in question is a solid-masonry home, this is a job best addressed by professionals, as these types of homes will mandate different tools and a more advanced skill set than most do-it-yourselfers possess.

Homeowners should begin by testing themselves with the installation of a small replacement window at the side or rear of their home.  This way, should the installation prove too difficult a home repair project and a professional installation appointment become necessary, only a small window will be missing until the professionals arrive.  Additionally, an open window at the rear of the home is less of a security concern than those visible from the street.  Once a window has been selected, homeowners need to start by reviewing the instructions provided with the replacement window to make sure that they have all of the necessary tools for the installation.

After reviewing the instructions and checking for the recommended tools, homeowners should keep in mind that the single most important part of replacement window installation is to be absolutely certain that the windows are perfectly square within the frames.  Many windows will automatically square themselves if they are closed and the sashes locked within the frame, but even if they do square themselves, homeowners should make sure that the gap between the window sashes and the window frames are equivalent on all sides.    

Once the windows are squared, and the gaps on all sides verified as uniform, homeowners should install the fasteners, but not fully.  With the fasteners installed enough to hold the windows, homeowners should test the windows to make sure that they function properly and are adequately sealed.  Only after this is verified should the fasteners be screwed in completely.  With the fasteners screwed-in, and the weather stripping sealed well, the gaps between the window frame and the opening for the window can be filled with insulation, and the window trim (exterior and interior) applied.  Exterior trim can then be caulked, and the first window of this home improvement project should be completed.