December 20th, 2019 | Updated on June 25th, 2022
Complete home window replacement requires the right tools, time and attitude for your DYI project. Installation of a window on your own will require that you have the exact measurement which matches the old window. For instance, a square window opening will require that you fix it with a rectangular window; this will require you to take a precise measurement of the window.The slightest deviation from the original size of the opening might result in disorderly window installation.
If this happens, then you might lose so much heat to the environment, absorb drafts and condensation that might hike your energy bills.Tools that can come in handy when replacing your window include a utility knife, pry bar, pliers, hammer, lever, drill and drill bit, paintbrush reciprocating saw, among other tools. To achieve a perfect Total Home DIY window replacement, you should know how to use these tools ideally as they help you make a smooth and flawless finishing for your new window.
Some materials that could come in handy in replacing the window include nails, wood putty, sash replacement window, caulk, and paint.
1. How To DIY Window Replacement
Start by measuring the existing window opening, which will help you determine the exact size of your new window. Measuring begins from the left to the right jambs, which are located on the top, middle as well as the bottom of the window.
The shortest measurements that you will take is that of the width as well as the window height. Make sure that you have exact measurements that fit well with the opening to have a neat window finishing.
2. Removing The Head And Trim Stop
By scoring the trim where the trim of the new window meets the existing window casing, the seams of the wood are least likely to split when removing the trim pieces.
When fixing the window, slide a flat pry bar behind your window, which stops the inside and helps in removing the parts that remain after the work is done.
Using a pair of pliers pull the scoring head stop gently, which could be used later for other functions. Sometimes you might need to remove the excess surrounding trim; to achieve this, use a utility knife which slices through paint and caulk that is located between the interior casing and the wall.
To achieve a finished look, you can use a plier to gently remove the nails that would be at the back of the piece of the door. By eliminating the pins, you are guarding your window replacement against future splits or cracks in the future.
3. Removing The Jamb Liner
By lowering the lower sash to about 6 to 8 inches, you can pry back the old jamb liner effectively. You should also repeat this process with the upper sash for a completely fresh look.
Go ahead and fold the jamb liner to about 90-degrees, repeat the process with the upper sash while folding the jamb liner across the top part of your window sash.
You can now remove your old window and replace it with your new window using proper lifting skills that do not hurt your back.
4. How To Remove The Window.
The jamb liner and the old window sashes should be removed as one unit. In this case, you may need to ask for assistance if the windows and doors you are removing are large.
With the person helping you standing outside to receive the windows, begin praying to the outside. To do this hit the window jambs using a hammer.
Once you have loosened the screws, and the window is loosely fixed in in its frames, go outside to your helper and together pull it out. Take care when lifting the windows and doors so that you don’t harm yourself.
5. Fixing A New Jamb Liner.
You are supposed to fix a liner bracket after every four to five inches along the frame. Ensure that the bracket is perfectly levelled before nailing it down.
After that, fix the jamb liners perfectly on the liner brackets ensuring that the liners fit well into their place.
Installing Sashes.
Fix the sash perfectly in the exterior track of the window frame’s liner. Close and open it to be certain it operates without sticking, and then go on to install the lower sash and repeat the same test process.
