The right windows can dramatically improve your home’s comfort and curb appeal. But it’s important to choose a window manufacturer that offers options and customization that align with your vision.
Insert window replacement involves installing new windows within an existing frame, preserving interior and exterior trim. Also known as frame-in-frame replacement, it’s an option for homeowners who want to avoid removing their siding. Visit https://yourhomeexteriors.com/ to learn more.
When it comes to replacing windows, there are many decisions to make—style, color, material, shape, cost and installation tactics. But perhaps the most important consideration is how you’ll use the new windows. Whether you want to let in more light, improve air circulation or make the house more energy efficient, you need to decide which type of window is best for you and your home.
Replacement windows are a great way to make these changes without major construction. These windows slide into the existing frame of an old window, keeping the exterior trim and sill intact. You can choose between full-frame replacement windows, which require removing the entire wall system surrounding the window opening, and insert replacement windows, which simply replace the sash in the existing frame.
With both types of replacement windows, it’s crucial that the window fits properly. A window that doesn’t fit well will let in water, cold air and debris and cause damage to the frame and trim, requiring costly repairs or even total demolition and reconstruction.
To ensure that the new replacement window fits, start by measuring diagonally across the window to make sure it’s square. Then, loosely fasten the new window with screws in the lower left and upper right corners. This allows you to adjust the window if necessary until it’s perfectly square and aligned with the jamb opening.
Once the window is in place, check the fit with a bubble level and shims. If the window is leaning, add shims between the window and the sill to prop it up. You can also add shims behind the jambs to keep them straight.
Once the window is shimmied in place, apply caulk along the outside edge of the frame to seal it against the wall. Caulk can be purchased from a hardware store and can be applied with a putty knife or caulking gun. When the caulk dries, you can remove any excess with a utility knife or handsaw. Finally, install or reinstall any inside stops that were removed to accommodate the new window and paint the casings or stain them, if desired.
Replacement Sashes
The window sash holds both the glass and the frame that surrounds it in place. It is important for the sash to stay fixed in place and move up and down smoothly, but if this sash becomes damaged or fails, it can allow water and air into your home and can even cause structural damage to your house’s wooden windows.
While you can replace your entire window frame with a new sash, this can be quite costly. In many cases, repairing the sash instead is more affordable and can get your window back up and running.
When it comes to sash repair or replacement, the first step is to find out whether your sash can be saved by simply de-glazing it and using the existing frame. This is often the case with older, double-hung wood sash windows.
Once this has been confirmed, a bespoke timber window specialist will be able to create a brand-new sash to match your current one’s measurements. This can then be fitted to your window frame and should ensure that your sash will be firmly in place and able to move up and down.
If you’re planning on replacing your sash, the next step is to purchase a kit from an online or physical retailer. The kits will typically include everything you need to repair your sash. This will include a top or bottom sash, compression jamb liners for both sides of the window, a sill dam, and a head parting stop. They will also have a coil spring block and tackle that will replace the original balancing weights, ensuring that your sash stays in place and moves up and down correctly.
It’s important to note that while a sash replacement is easier to install than a whole new window, it should still be carried out by a qualified installer. This is because the installation process will require you to drill into your brickwork and your new sash will need to comply with building regulations. This means you’ll need to be issued with a FENSA certificate, or similar, from your local authority.
Replacement Glass
In many cases it is possible to replace just the glass in your windows, doors or patio doors rather than replacing the entire window unit. This is usually a quicker and less expensive option. However, it may not provide the long-term benefits or energy efficiency of a full window replacement.
Generally, a new window pane is inserted into the existing frame using either glazing compound or metal glass points. The glass is then set into a bed of putty or double-sided tape. This creates a weather seal to prevent air from entering the house around the pane of glass.
First, you must remove the old sash. This can be done with a pry bar, though some windows have parting stops that must also be removed. If you’re replacing a double or triple-paned window, it is important to keep in mind that there are different types of glass between each pane that should not be mixed up. These different glass types require different types of sealants, which are typically available from window professionals.
Once the sash is removed, it’s important to clean the frame before installing the new window glass. This will help ensure that the new window is installed properly, and it’s a good idea to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the interior and exterior edges of the frame to ensure a tight fit.
Next, you need to measure the width and height of the window opening. You’ll want to subtract 1/8-inch from each measurement to use as the size for your new pane of glass. This will allow the window to be inserted with ease and provides room for seasonal expansion and contraction.
Once you have the measurements for your new glass, take them to a home center or hardware store and have them cut. When installing the new window, follow the old carpenter’s adage: “Measure twice, cut once.” This will ensure that the pane is a snug fit in the frame and reduce drafts.
If you’re replacing a double or even triple-paned window, don’t forget to check your warranty. Depending on the window brand and your original purchase date, this work may be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Replacement Frames
If the existing window frame is in good condition and you’re only looking to change the glass, then insert windows may be a smart choice. This method of installation, also known as “frame-in-frame replacement,” allows new windows to be inserted into the existing window opening, preserving interior and exterior trim and structure. To do this, the old sash, operating hardware and covers are removed and the window frame is anchored, insulated and sealed. This type of replacement is available for double-hung, casement, picture and awning windows.
One of the biggest benefits of this option is that it reduces costs because your home’s overall construction remains intact. Another advantage is that less work needs to be done to the surrounding trim, siding and brickwork. However, you will be limited in your ability to change the size and shape of the window and it won’t be as energy efficient as a full-frame replacement.
In order to install a new window, your contractor will first need to take measurements of the existing frame and casing. This will ensure that the new window fits properly and doesn’t create any leaking or drafts. The next step will be to remove the existing sash and frame components, using a pry bar to loosen the nail fins that hold them in place. This will allow your contractor to check for any rot or damage. If they find any, your contractor will need to repair or replace them before installing the new window.
The new window will be installed into the window rough opening with shims to help keep it secure and even. A foam backer rod is then inserted into the gap between the window and casing. It’s then caulked to seal the gap and prevent air leakage.
This style of installation allows your contractor to check for any problems with the existing window frame and sill, including rot or water damage. It also ensures that the new window is a proper fit, which helps improve energy efficiency and reduce maintenance requirements. In addition, full-frame replacement allows for the installation of modern spray foam insulation that can drastically decrease noise infiltration, lower your energy bills and increase your home’s comfort.