Window Installation

{{Infobox
|title = Installing Windows
|image        = [[File:Space holder.jpg|215px|alt=Block Glass Windows]]
|header5 = Installing Windows
|data6   = Installing Replacement Windows
|header7 = Description:
|data8   = Proper installation of a replacement window is as important to the overall success of the window's performance as is any other element of the window's construction. 

There are a wide range of installation techniques involved in installing replacement windows. Installation methods are dependent on the window's framing material, size, home construction and window style.

== Window Installations ==
Some homeowners prefer to install their own replacement windows while others rely on the window dealer to take care of their replacement windows' installation. Whichever decision is made, it's important that the homeowner understands the process of installing new replacement windows. 

=== Insert Replacement Units ===
Insert replacement units are ready-to-install windows which slip right into an existing opening. Most replacement windows are not full-frame windows which are generally designed for new home construction -- they are built to fit into existing window openings. They are available as custom-built replacement windows or in standard sizes and are available as [[wood windows|wood frames]], [[vinyl windows|vinyl frames]], [[fiberglass windows|fiberglass frames]], [[composite windows|composite frames]], [[vinyl windows|vinyl frames]] and [[aluminum windows|aluminum frames]]. They can be as wide as 68 inches and as narrow as 12 inches. 

Insert replacement windows are available in many different window styles including both [[operating windows|operating]] and [[non operating windows|non operating]] styles. Instructions for installing insert replacement windows are applicable to  [[double hung windows|double hung]] and [[single hung windows|single hung]] windows, [[horizontal sliding windows|sliding windows]], [[casement windows|casement windows]], [[bay windows|bay]] and [[bow windows|bow]] windows, [[special shape windows|special shape windows]] and [[picture windows|fixed frame windows]]. 

Insert replacement window units are available as insert replacements, sash kits and full frame units. 

==== Insert Replacement Window ====
An insert replacement window, also called a "pocket window" consists of a fully assembled window that sits in a ready-to-install secondary frame. The insert replacement is fastened to the old side jambs after being slipped into the existing window opening. New jambs and liners are added, creating a smaller glazing area than was previously presented. 

== == Sash Replacement Kits ====
Sash-replacement kits give an old window frame new movable parts such as jamb liners and a new sash. The jamb liners are fastened to the side jambs of the window opening and then the new sash is slipped in between. This option is possible when the window opening is square and level. 

==== Full-Frame Replacement Windows ====
Full-frame replacement windows have a complete frame that includes side jambs, a head jamb and a sill. It is similar to inserts and but is the only option when the old window frame, jambs or window sill are rotted. To install a full frame replacement window the window opening must be stripped down to its rough framing, both inside and out.

=== Measuring for a Replacement Window Installation ===
Accurate measurements for a replacement window installation are one of the most important components of a successful replacement window installation. Measuring accurately for window-replacement installation involves measuring the width, height, sill slope and frame dimensions of the existing window.  

==== Measuring Window Width ====
Measuring the width of a window's width is accomplished by measuring the inside width of the old window frame across the top, middle and bottom, jamb to jamb. The smallest of the 3 measurements will be the width measurement. 

==== Measuring Window Height ====
The frame's height is measured from the top of the sill to the underside of the head jamb at the left jamb, in the middle and at the right jamb. The smallest of the 3 measurements will be the height measurement. 

==== Measuring Frame ====
To ensure that the frame is square it must be measured diagonally, corner to corner. Both measurements must match. Replacement windows can be shimmied to fit any out-of-square measurement that's a quarter inch or under, but anything that's over ¼" may require a frame adjustment. 

==== Measuring Window Sill Slope ====
The slope of the window sill is measured using an angle-measuring tool.

=== Remove Old Sash ===
A replacement window installation begins by removing the old sash. Old interior wooden stops must be pried off or unscrewed from the lower sash and the parting beads freed from the upper sash. (If a sash was previously replaced using a sash replacement kit, it can be removed by pressing in on the jamb liners and pulling the top of the sash forward. One side of the sash can then be pivoted upward to free it from the jamb liners).  

==== Remove Jamb Liners and Wooden Stops ====
Vinyl or aluminum jamb liners can be pried up with a flat bar to pry them free. Wooden stops must also be removed from the window frame while leaving interior and exterior casings intact.

=== Frame Preparation ===
Preparing the frame for the window installation involves patching and caulking the existing frame, removing the sash weights and sealing the holes and sash-weight pockets with foam.

==== Patch the Frame ====
This is the opportunity to patch any cracks or holes in the frame with exterior grade wood putty. The jambs must then be sanded smooth and the surfaces primed and painted. 

==== Caulking ====
Caulking should be applied to the blind stops on the top and side of the frame and the exposed inner face of the exterior casings. Caulking should also be applied along the [[Window Sills |windowsill]]. 

==== Sash Weights ====
The original sash weights  are removed by unscrewing the access panels on each side jam and pulling out the weights from their insulation and pockets.

Existing fiberglass is removed from the weight pockets and  3/8-inch-diameter holes are bored through the sill and head jam, one near each end and one in the center. 

==== Sealing with Foam ====
Expanding polyurethane foam (or another minimally expanding, low pressure foam)is sprayed into the holes and the sash-weight pockets in the side jambs. The holes should fill completely with some of the foam oozing out. After the excess foam hardens (about six hours) it must be cut or broken flush with the frame  before the sash-weight pocket panels are replaced.

=== Set the Sash ===
The installer works inside the room to set the bottom of the insert replacement onto the sill from where he can tip it up into the opening. The window is then pressed tightly against the blind stops or exterior casings and can be screwed into the framing and upper jam. Screws should be placed loosely, just far enough to allow the window to operate. The sash can be closed and locked and the installer can adjust the unit as needed and trim the shims. 

=== Filling the Gaps ===
The gaps between the casing and the window frame can be caulked or stuffed with foam rubber backer rod on the window's exterior. Minimally expanding foam can fill the gaps around the window on the window's interior. 
 
=== Finish ===
The window sash and frame can be primed, painted and stained. 


=== Tips for Replacement Window Installations ===
Some handy tips make replacement window installation allow for a more professional and  efficient job. 

==== Water Infiltration ====
To avoid water infiltration the installer should be sure that he doesn't cut through the felt or housewrap when he's removing the old window. It's important to flash the rough opening to prevent water from entering the building cavity. Top quality products should be used for the flashing system as well as the caulking and weatherstripping. These materials should all be compatible with each other.