How to Remove Double Paned Windows From a House

Removing the window yourself rather than hiring a professional can substantially reduce the cost of repair.

Double-pane windows are considerably more expensive than single-pane windows, but the additional expense provides an increase in energy efficiency and a reduction of noise pollution from outside the home. The process of removing a double-pane window is substantially similar to removing a single-pane window, but perhaps the most significant difference is that double-pane windows are heavier. Enlist the help of an assistant when removing a double-pane window if possible.

Things You'll Need

• Small pry bar
• Utility knife
• Reciprocating saw
• Hammer

Instructions

1. Pry the interior trim away from the window frame with a small pry bar to expose several nails on both sides of the window. Slice through any paint between the wall and the trim with a utility knife if necessary. Pry the trim away from the wall gradually if you intend to reuse it.

2. Pry the exterior trim away from the window frame with a small pry bar if applicable. Examine the exterior edges of the window. Some double-pane window designs have a lip around the edges that is secured to the home with nails. Remove any nails with a pry bar.

3. Cut through the nails with a reciprocating saw to release the window from the wall studs.

4. Inspect the narrow slots between the house and the edges of the window for window shims. Window shims are thin spacers, typically made of wood or plastic, designed to level a window within its frame if necessary. Remove any shims by tapping them out of the wall with a hammer and the pry bar.

5. Pry the window out of the wall gradually with the pry bar and lift the window out of the wall with the help of an assistant.

References

• Ten Pound Books: Home Improvement Guide: Creative Publishing International