Since getting an official business to replace your windows is expensive, a lot of homeowners decide they should do it themselves. Windows replacement Edmonton on your own can be a very rewarding thing to do. After all, you’re not just learning new things, but you’re spending a lot less money! When it comes to replacing a window on your own, the process is very similar to the one a professional company would use. The only difference is that you may lack the specialized tools that are sure to make the job a lot easier. Here at Canglow Windows & Doors, we’ve put together a guide that is sure to make the process of replacing your very own windows as easy as possible.
Replacement Windows Versus New-Construction Windows
Before starting the process, you of course need to choose the type of windows you’re going to use. And no, we don’t mean the actual design. We mean the choice between new-construction windows and replacement windows. Typically you’re going to want to stay away from new-construction windows. These are the units that typically are put in when a house is first built. If you were to try to put them in a house that’s not designed for them (like yours), you’ll need to do some extensive modifications to your actual house.
We recommend using replacement windows. They’re designed to fit into a pre-existing house with a pre-existing frame. You don’t want to mold your house to your windows, you need to mold your windows to your house!
Safety Considerations
Before working to replace your own windows, make sure you’ve turned off the electricity in your home. This is simply a safety precaution. Better safe than sorry! Also, if your windows are by any water lines, be sure to turn the water off as well. Last but not least, if the windows you are replacing are quite old, chances are they have sash weights. These need to be disposed of in very specific ways, so be sure to read up on it beforehand.
Metrics of the Project
Each window will take you about an hour each. Approximately 60 minutes. The materials you are going to need will cost you anywhere from $200 to $500, and generally most people find that this particular project requires a hefty amount of skill.
A-List of Equipment
- Speed Square
- Circular Saw
- Cordless Drill
- Because corded drills can be quite awkward to use and can cause unnecessary annoyances during the job.
- Step Ladder
- We recommend your step ladder be a six-foot step ladder.
- Laser Level
- Miter Saw (Electric recommended)
- Framing Hammer
- Tape Measure
- Utility Knife
- Box knives work best
- Caulking Gun
- Pencils (Carpenter pencils are recommended)
- Bubble Level (of any size)
A-List of Materials
- You’ll, of course, need the actual replacement windows
- Galvanized Nails (16d, 3 ½-inch)
- Shims
- Caulk
Instructions
First off, let’s define a few things. When we refer to a sash, we are referring to the part of the window that moves open and shut. When we refer to a stop, we are referring to the part of the window that prevents the previously mentioned sash from falling out of place. Stops are typically pieces of wood that are very thin and go on around the edges of a window frame.
Step 1 – Measure The Dimensions of Your Window
First of all, you are going to need to measure the width of your current windows. To do this, take your tape measure and measure from the inside of the left jamb to the inside of the right jamb. For those unfamiliar with what a jamb is, a jamb is simply the inside edge of your window frame. Because windows can bend and budge and warp over time, measure from all sorts of spots. If each of the measurements is within ⅛ of an inch of one another, you’re good to go!
Secondly, you’re going to need to measure the height. Do the same thing that you did previously, but do it vertically! Be sure to measure in multiple places once again.
Step 2 – Time To Remove The Trim and Stops
Now that you’ve completed your measurements, it’s time to remove the subtle pieces like the trim and stops. To do this, use the tools at your disposal. Be careful not to damage the structure around the window, nor the paint around it. You don’t want to have to repaint it all, because that’s just a lot more work! If some of the paint is on the trim pieces, use your utility knife to skillfully remove it. Act like a surgeon and complete the task with absolute accuracy! When it comes to removing the stops, do not destroy them! Keep them so you can use them later on.
Step 3 – Removing Support Parts
Step 3 is all about removing the supporting pieces. This includes any and all pulleys, sash weights, and cords. Be sure to remove the sash first to get access to all the supporting parts and mechanisms. To remove the sash, slide the outer part downwards to disengage the parting beads (to clarify, these are the components that keep the window in place). Once you’ve removed the sash, remove the parting beads as well. As these are specific to each window, you can get rid of these.
Before moving on to the next step, be sure to clean all exposed surfaces. This will make all further steps and actions a whole lot easier.
Step 4 – Dry Fit The Window
Take your new window and place it where your old window sat. Don’t attach it with anything just yet. Just feel everything out and evaluate how well it fits.
Step 5 – Attach The Window
Now that you’ve tested out the fit, go ahead and attach the window if you feel it fits perfectly. If it does not fit as perfectly as you’d like it too, we recommend going back to your supplier and buying a more accurate size. Either that or try shimming the window into place.
Step 6 – Removing Packing Supports
Before you finalize your window installation, be sure to remove all packing supports. You may even want to remove them before step five! These are purely for shipping and transport-related purposes.
Step 7 – Add The Caulking
Fill the edges with caulking and fit the desired trim pieces around the window. Screw-in all required bolts and screws. Remove any shims you may have used.
Step 8 – Test Everything Out!
Once the caulking has dried, test out the window! Open and close it a bunch of times. Try and move it! See if the frame shakes are moved at all.
Congratulations, you’ve replaced your window all by yourself! For more information on how to install windows, feel free to contact us. Here at Canglow Windows & Doors, we are committed to making things as easy for you as possible. Contact us today for a free consultation. No strings attached! Join more than 80 thousand happy customers today and give us a call!
If for whatever reason you are unable to replace your window yourself, feel free to give us a call and we’ll send our team of highly trained experts to your location.
