How to Install Double Hung Windows
Replacing a broken or old window with a double hung window is a good way to add value to your home. Depending on how large the project is, at an average you can install a double hung window in as little as one day or one weekend. There are two types of double hung windows: one that is made with wood framing and the other made with vinyl. The latter is a more popular choice due to its low maintenance. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Prybar
- Hammer
- Nails
- Saw
- Vinyl Double hung window
- Caulking gun
- Caulk
- Straight edge
- Carpenter's square
- Level
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Instructions
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How to Measure a Window Opening
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Measure the the window opening properly and accurately. Since vinyl windows are made to measure, it is almost impossible to return them. So, measurement is an important step prior to installation.
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2
Measure the width of the old window opening by raising the lower sash followed by taking the measurement of the width near the top of the window, the middle portion and close to the bottom part.
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3
Take the height measurement by measuring from the head jamb to the sloped sill which is just past where it meets the inside window stool.
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4
Write down the measurement of each window to replace. Do not assume that all windows are exactly the same in size. Label each location with a blue tape and write a number on them, then write down the corresponding measurement on a piece of paper by each number.
Installing Vinyl Double Hung Windows
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Remove the old window to be replaced. Use a prybar to take off the inside stops. Do this carefully so you can still reuse them. Remove the lower sash by cutting the sash ropes, then remove the blind stop by using a prybar. Remove the upper sash by prying it off as well.
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Place the replacement window in the opening. Get an extra helping hand if you need additional support. If the location is on the lower floor, you can have one person assist you from the inside while you work on the outside. Make sure that new window fits snugly between the stool on the inside and the outside stops of the old window on the outside .
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Use a piece of lattice or a door stop to support the bottom of the new window, provided it is flat. Some vinyl double hung windows have sloped portions that protrudes at the bottom that match the sloped sill of your old window. To deal with this, set the window in the opening, then measure the gap between the front bottom edge of the window and the sloped window sill.
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Create supports for all your windows at one time if desired by planing the edge of a board at an angle that roughly matches the slope of the sill, then place a strip of wood to insert into the gap.
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Install the support strip, cut it to length and then nail it in place directly below the point where the front edge of the new window will be placed.
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Check that the new double hung window is at the center of the opening. Ensure that the window is square by utilizing the carpenter's square. Place shims behind the screw holes in the jamb, then screw the window in place. Replace the inside stop.
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Go inside to check the window if it is working as it should. Return outside and apply caulking to seal.
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