The single largest source of energy loss in a home is its windows. Moreover, older homes with standard windows typically have higher-than-normal energy bills -- in part because of doors and windows that seal poorly or offer no insulation. In this segment, and the one that follows, host Paul Ryan shows how to replace an old, worn-out double-hung window using an energy-saving sash replacement kit ( figure A). According to window specialist Doug Anderson, the replacement doesn't involve replacing the frames, but rather changing out the sashes with a newer sash system that utilizes a more energy-efficient design (figure B) and tight seal. The system uses a tilt/take-out liner (figure C), making it easier to use and clean the window. The cost for a kit such as the one shown in our demonstration is around $250 per window. The cost of an all-new window with replaced wood frames would probably be about the same, but savings are incurred with the replacement kit since homeowners can install it themselves -- thus avoiding labor costs. The steps shown in this demonstration were for the particular sash-replacement kit shown. Individual steps may vary somewhat for different models. Read and follow any instructions that come with the window kit you select. Materials (figure D): Wood/Clad Tilt Pac™ 2-Sash window kit
Measuring tape
Sill angle-finder
Pry bar
Metal-snips or heavy-duty scissors
Hammer
Screwdriver or screw gun
Pliers
Steps: - In our demonstration, it was established that our window frame was square. Next, we measured the width of the sash opening in the old window. Measure the width from jamb to jamb.
- Measure the sash opening height. First, open the bottom sash. Place a piece of scrap lumber in the opening to hold the window up. Run the tape measure up the inside of the frame to the head jamb (figure E) and down to the point where the exterior side of the sash meets the sill (figure F).
- Tip: You can usually identify the bottom point by the existing paint mark.
- Use a palm-sized sill angle finder to measure the angle of the sill. Level the bubble, and read the angle on the finder gauge (figure G).
- These measurements for width, height and angle will provide you with the dimensions for the replacement kit you'll be purchasing.
- Once you have ordered and received your window replacement kit, you are ready to remove the old window sashes. First, remove the window stops. Using a utility knife, score the side-stop all the way down the length of the window, from top to bottom.
- Gently pry the old side stop off using the pry bar. The stops can be reused or you can replace them with new ones. If you intend to reuse the old ones, take care in removing them (figure H) so that they don't get damaged.
- Remove the sash-parting stop. Since this area will later be covered by the new insert, simply break these pieces out with a pry bar (figure I).
- After removing all of the old sash-parting stops, remove the upper sash by sliding it down and lifting it out (figure J). If your window has a pulley system, you'll need to cut the pulley rope before removing the sash.
- Remove the pulleys and weights from the window-frame cavity (figure K).
- Finish by filling the empty cavity with some insulation (figure L).
In the segment that follows, the window-sash kit installation is completed.
RESOURCES :
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ISBN: 0376012048
(January, 2002)
Sunset Publishing Company (Division of Time Warner)
Website: www.sunset.com
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Author: William H. Clark
McGraw-Hill Companies
Website: www.mcgraw-hill.com
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ISBN: 1561583405
From The Best of Fine Homebuilding book series.
The Taunton Press Inc.
Website: www.taunton.com
Save Energy, Save Money
ISBN: 0028642791
Authors: Alvin Ubell, George Merlis
Macmillan / Alpha Books
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Achieving Energy Independence -- One Step at a Time
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Author: Jeffrey R. Yago
Dunimis Technology
Solar Living Source Book: The Complete Guide to Renewable Energy Technologies and Sustainable Living
Model: 0916571041
Author: John Schaeffer (Editor), Doug Pratt (Editor)
(Real Goods Solar Living Sourcebook, 11th Ed)
Real Goods
Website: www.realgoods.com
The Solar Electric House: Energy for the Environmentally-Responsive, Energy-Independent Home
ISBN: 0963738321
Author: Steven J. Strong, William G. Scheller
Chelsea Green Publiishing Company
Wind Energy Basics: A Guide to Small and Micro Wind Systems
Model: 1890132071
Author: Paul Gipe, Karen Perez
(Real Goods Solar Living Book)
Chelsea Green Publiishing Company
Wind Power for Home & Business: Renewable Energy for the 1990s and Beyond
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Chelsea Green Publiishing Company
Marvin Tilt Pac Window-Sash Replacement Kit
Marvin Tilt Pac window-sash replacement kit was installed in DIY's Home Energy Savings workshop.
Marvin Windows and Doors
Website: www.marvin.com
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