DIY New Windows in an Old House

Window replacement in older frame houses presents a challenge for an industrious owner with basic carpentry skills. Window manufacturers have taken steps and developed products to aid both the consumer and contractor in the design, installation and service of replacement windows.

The most familiar type of window has an upper and a lower sash that slides vertically in separate grooves. This is called a double-hung window. The simplest type of window is single-hung, in which the top sash is stationery, and the bottom sash slides in a groove. Double-hung or single-hung windows can be replaced with a production product called "TiltPac," available from Marvin Window. Use of a production replacement, like TiltPac, eliminates the need for expensive exterior trim and cladding work. It also minimizes the amount of interior damage created when undertaking window replacement. To replace windows in an older home, begin by measuring the glass size of both upper and lower sashes. Then measure the size of the entire opening from side jamb to side jamb. Determine the type of glass that will be used--for example, single glazed, insulated, UV Argon filled, or impact glazing. Then make the selection on window sash construction: wood, vinyl or aluminum clad. Color is selected if aluminum is being used, or the color of paint to be applied if wood (generally pine) is specified. Order the windows. To remove the old windows, take off the window stops. These are the trim pieces that hold the upper and lower sash from falling into the room. Reserve the stops for use with the new windows. This will allow the lower sash to be tilted in and removed. Sometimes side runners or window weights have to be removed as well. Then, remove the upper sash. You will have an opening with no window in it. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer for new window installation. You will be required to screw in new side runners and springs kits. These are provided with the replacement windows. Keeping everything in line per the instructions, the new windows are now attached to the runners by pushing back each spring-loaded side so the window side groove fits into the new runner. Install both sashes and test them to see how they fit and lock. Some adjustment may be required for sills that are out of level and frames that are out of square. Adjustments are included with the runner accessory kits. Replace the stops with the old stops that you have reserved, or with new millwork. Edge gaskets will insure a secure fit and tight insulating. Paint or stain the interior or exterior as desired. Installing the first replacement window will seem a bit tricky, but the process for each is the same, and after a few this type of replacement will be a breeze. Pella Window and Door also supplies replacement windows designed for the older home where a complete pre-hung replacement is required. The complete window and frame replacement has its advantages. Some TiltPacs don't seal to 100 percent efficiency, while in-house manufactured units give a 100 percent factory seal. When opting for a complete pre-hung replacement, the entire window frame and sash must be removed. This involves removing interior window casing, exterior window trim and exposing the rough frame opening. The entire new unit is placed in the opening, attached per the manufacturer requirements and edge insulated. Both the interior and exterior of the window opening must be re-trimmed, caulked and finished. This type of replacement allows the owner to change window style and types. Double hung windows can be replaced with casements, or a three-wide casement can be replaced by a single picture window.