How do I Anchor a Bay Window?
Bay windows add beauty, natural light and can increase the insulation in a home. A correctly anchored bay window is important for the structure of the window along with the safety for kids, pets and others who enjoy the view from the inside and outside of the home. Keep in mind, however, that a bay window is very heavy and the anchoring process requires at least a couple people. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Crowbar
- 1 x 4in. board
- Long screws
- Level
- Flashing
- Cable clamps
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Instructions
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1
Measure the opening for your bay window. Use a tape measure to get the exact length and width of the opening. Purchase a new bay window that will fit the measured opening.
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2
Prepare the area where the bay window is to be placed by removing any current windows, sashes, rotted material and nails or screws. Use a crowbar to remove the sash stops around the window. Pry the tracks loose on the sides of the windows. Lift the tracks and the window out as one piece. Remove any screens or storm windows. Pry the window sills and any rotten wood away from the window using the crowbar.
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3
Set in place a 1 x 4" board and trim to fit the space at the bottom for the bay window to sit. This should be a smooth and level surface and is the first step to a secure anchor of the window. Use long screws and a drill to screw them down through the board, shims and house frame.
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4
Apply flashing to the outside and sides of the window opening before you put the window in. Flashing is a tape with rubberized backing. This will make the window water tight when it is installed.
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Take out the window sashes and glass from the new bay window. This makes it easier to lift and put into place.
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Slide the frame for the window into place and secure with long screws in both the top and bottom of the frame. Use a level to make sure that the frame is even. If it is not even, insert shims underneath the frame to make it level.
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To help anchor the window, place cable clamps on the outside of the home to the header above the opening. These clamps securely hold a support cable to anchor the window. Repeat on the other side. Thread the cables through the clamps and fasten tightly.
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Reinsert the sashes back into place of the bay window. Place the center portion of the bay window back into the frame. Put the left and right windows back into the frame. Check to make sure the window is still level. Add shims to balance the frame if needed. With the bay window anchored tightly in the opening and the cable clamps closed tightly, you can continue to completion of the roof over the bay window.
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References
- Photo Credit bay windows image by Aaron Kohr from Fotolia.com
