If you’re installing new house windows, the process differs slightly from what you’re used to. However, it doesn’t have to be tricky if you prepare properly. First, measure the width of the window opening and the height from the sill to the top jamb. This is important because replacement windows must fit within the existing frame. Read on to learn more about house window installation.
Before installation, you need to do a few things to prepare for your new windows. Using a flat bar, pry the jamb liners free of the frame. Remove the parting beads and any other wooden stops holding the sash if you have original windows. This will help the window contractor be more efficient and make your house window installation go smoothly.
Removing the old window sash from the frame may require a special tool, but it’s usually simple. Take the upper sash out of the window, then pivot it up. Next, locate and score the stop holding the lower sash. Then, carefully cut it out. You can remove the sash from the window frame without the parting stop, but removing the stops is safer before installing the new window. This way, you don’t risk damaging the sash or the window frame. You can also install the window more quickly by not needing to strip the existing frame down to its rough framing.
When your contractor arrives, he or she will start by inspecting the window opening and measuring the rough width at the top, bottom, and middle. These dimensions will help your contractor order the correct window size.
The exterior of the window should be slightly thinner and shorter than these measurements. This allows for a tighter fit and helps to minimize air leakage around the window frame.
Next, the window is placed in place. The window is then sealed, caulked and insulated to further promote energy efficiency.
Once the window is positioned, the installer will use shims between the window and frame to fill in that 1/4-inch space. This allows the window to sit level and plumb without causing gaps that could cause air leakage or water damage.
The window is fastened in place using screws driven through the upper left and lower right corner of the frame. Then, the window is closed and locked. Alternatively, the sash can be pulled forward to allow the window to fall into position.
The installation process can be messy. Window frames are often disturbed, old paint and glue scraped away, drywall work removed and paint, varnish and sanding dust left behind. Over time, this debris can build up on the floors, carpeting and walls in your home, making it difficult to keep clean. The window installation crew will take care to clean up the mess, but you should also clear areas where windows will be installed so that there is no debris for them to pick up.
When cleaning exterior windows, use a squeegee in horizontal strokes to wipe each pane without leaving streaks. Rinse the squeegee blade after each pass. If the squeegee leaves marks, add a few drops of dish soap to the water and try again.
Window warranties are a great way to ensure you’re protected in the event that your windows experience problems. Oftentimes, these plans cover hardware, installation, labor, breakage and other issues. The length of a warranty can vary, but most manufacturer warranties last from one year to ten years. This depends on the company, so it’s important to read the terms closely before you purchase your windows.
For example, Renewal by Andersen of Long Island offers a lifetime warranty that covers product and installation defects. However, there are some exceptions to this warranty. For instance, it doesn’t cover windows that are installed in a rental or investment property. Also, some companies include exclusions in their warranties, such as if the home is within a five-mile radius of a body of water. This is especially true if you live on Staten Island. Thankfully, these exclusions don’t affect most homeowners. So if you have any questions about your window’s warranty, don’t hesitate to ask your contractor!
