Egress Window Installation

Installing egress windows is a snap to do on your own as a homeowner.

Installing egress window replacements is an easy thing to do. Just as with the installation of any modern aluminum window, there are eight to nine essential steps that must be done correctly to complete this task. It only takes one to two hours for completion and then a mandatory 24- to 48-hour period for your caulking to set securely before you can use the window area again. Take your time, and soon you will have your own inexpensively installed but fully functioning window to use and enjoy in your own home.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Utility knife
• Putty knife
• Workman's table
• Caulk
• Caulk gun
• Wooden shims
• Level
• Drill
• Hammer
• Nails or screws
• Old painters stick
• Small damp rag

Instructions

1. Measure the width and length of your window opening and order the windows.

2. Clean the window opening with a damp rag and a utility knife to clear out any old caulking.

3. Lay the new egress window sash flat and bend in the metal flanges along the sides. You will use this to attach the sash to the window framing area.

4. Bead caulk around the metal flange areas with a caulk gun to form a secure seal once you put the new egress window sash into place.

5. Place the egress window sash into the window opening, or buck area as it is also called. Check for straightness with a level. Have a friend help you adjust the window using wooden shims.

6. Check that the window is not only level but as flush or plumb with the wall area as possible.

7. Hammer the nails included with your egress sash kit into the metal flange areas. Place the nails 4 to 6 inches apart all the way around the new egress window sash. If screws were included instead of nails, use a drill to put the screws into place in the exact same manner.

8. Bead caulking along the exterior of the newly installed egress window sash. Smooth the caulking out with an old painter's stick and clean up any blotches on your walls quickly with a damp rag. Allow this caulking and the other caulking to dry completely for 24 to 48 hours before resuming use of the window area.

Tips & Warnings

• Using a friend to help you put in the wooden shims and check for levelness and plumb can help you avoid costly errors that may lead to air gaps that might make utility bills increase in the winter season.