Preparing Your Home for Window Replacement
Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer or you hire a professional, window replacement is an important project that requires planning. Before the installation begins, it's essential that you do some preparation work to protect your home from dust and ensure that the team will be able to complete their job without any issues.
Selecting a Brand of Window
If you're going to be installing new windows yourself, it's best to pick a brand that is reputable and well-known for its quality and longevity. The top replacement window brands include Pella, Anderson, and Milgard, and they all offer a variety of style options and materials to fit your needs.
Before you decide on a brand, it's a good idea to do some research into its history and reputation. You may also want to consider the type of warranty that will be offered by the company.
A brand's warranty can be a big factor in choosing the right window replacement for you. Some brands offer lifetime warranties that can cover all the replacement parts of the window should anything break. Others offer prorated warranties, which can be more affordable and can transfer to a new homeowner.
Installing Window Units
For a smooth, easy installation, you need to have the opening of the original window in your home cleaned out. This will help the new replacement window fit snugly inside the existing frame. You can do this by removing the old window, cleaning it thoroughly, and then replacing it with the new one.
You can use a paint brush to remove any dirt from the opening, or you can clean with a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth. You can also scrape away any chips or stains from the glass to ensure a perfect fit.
Then, measure the depth of the window opening from outside to inside. This measurement is crucial for the new window to be installed properly, so make sure to follow it closely.
There are three types of window installation: sash kits, insert replacements, and full-frame units. The latter are particularly difficult on stucco or brick homes, and it's best to hire the best window company for this job.
Sash Kits
A sash-replacement kit gives an older window frame new movable parts, including jamb liners and sashes. This kind of window is easier to install than a full-frame window. Instead of drilling holes through the frame, screw through the shims that are slipped behind each jamb. This will prevent bowing, which can lead to leaks and drafts.
In addition, the sash kit is a cheaper option than a full-frame unit. It also offers the benefits of less work for you, as you don't need to sand or paint the window.
Installing Sash Replacements
To install a sash replacement, first remove any existing fiberglass from the weight pockets in the side jambs of the frame. Bore 3/8-inch-diameter holes, one near each end and one in the center. Fill any gaps with elastomeric caulk. You can also spray foam into the sash-weight pockets to increase insulation and reduce drafts. Check out this post that has expounded on the topic: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Window.