Installing House Windows is not a simple process but with the right approach and tools you can end up saving yourself hundreds of dollars over a contractor installation.


Step 1 – Measuring your house windows
This is the most important piece of the process. It is key that you have accurate measurements before attempting to order a replacement. Make sure to measure at the top, bottom and at least 2 or 3 places in the middle. This will allow you to see if settlement of the house as make the current window an irregular shape. Once you have the dimensions talk to the hardware store rep and explain to him what the measurements are and how you achieved them.

Step 2 – Remove the old window.
While removing the old window make sure to note how it was attached to the house. Ideally you will want to install the new window the say way. Once the old window is removed, make sure that the opening is square and level. Adjusting the window opening now will save you time later when trying to put the new window in. Most openings can be resquared by planing down of the wood surfaces that are out of align.

Step 3 – Installing the new window. In a perfect world, the new window will just pop into the opening and fit like a glove. In most cases you make need to use shims to prop one side of the window to make it level or both sides if the opening is just a bit too large. Depending on the opening size you may need to shim at the top of the window as well.

Step 4 – Fastening the new window
Most replacement windows will come with a wood frame, if this is the case you can simply fasten it to the house with wood screws. Other types of windows can be fastened by wood blocks that keep the window in place.

Step 5 – Seal your window from the elements
The last step and energy saving one at that is to caulk around the window to provide a barrier to the elements. Caulking not only waterproofs the window but provides a barrier where heat cannot escape to the outside. If you have a large gap between the window and the side wall you can also think about placing some small strips of insulation in between the two surfaces.

Not many people choose to install their own house windows, but if you are savvy enough and have the patients it can be a cheap and rewarding experience.

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