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  • Window Replacement: Removing Old Windows and Building New Frame
  • From "Weekend Handyman"
    episode WKH-304


    PHOTO

    In this week's episode of Weekend Handyman, host Paul Ryan rips out an old window, and ...
    PHOTO

    shows you how to replace it with a new window ...
    PHOTO

    that is functional, beautiful and energy efficient!
    Time: 16 hours over two days.
    Difficulty Rating: This project rates a 4 out of 5 on the Weekend Handyman difficulty scale.

    Materials:

    For Removing Window and Frame --

    Safety glasses
    Ladder
    Utility knife
    Pry bar
    Hammer
    Safety goggles
    Gloves
    Reciprocating saw

    For Framing Rough Opening --

    Safety glasses
    Ladder
    Tape measure
    2" x 4" pieces
    Safety glasses
    Impulse framing nailer
    1" x 4" pieces
    Miter saw

    For Installing the New Window --

    Safety glasses
    Ladder
    Utility knife
    Pan flashing
    Flashing tape
    Self-adhesive sealing tape
    House wrap
    Caulk gun
    100-percent silicone caulk
    Minimal expanding foam insulation
    Hammer stapler
    1-1/2" galvanized roofing nails
    Shims
    Aluminum drip cap

    For Installing the Window Insert --

    Safety glasses
    Ladder
    Pry bar
    Shims
    2' and 4' levels
    Tape measure
    2-1/2" screws
    Silicone
    Insulating foam
    1x material
    Impulse nailer
    Paint
    Paintbrush
    advertisement


    PHOTO

    Figure A
    PHOTO

    Figure B

    Removing the Old Window

  • Unscrew and pry out the old storm windows. Take care not to shatter the glass.

    Tip: Whenever you're doing a project that will stir up lots of dirt and debris, it's a great idea to rent a dumpster. A medium size yard dumpster rents for approximately $125, and be check with your local rental company for rental periods.

  • Disassemble as much of the windows as possible (figure A). While cutting out the weights, be sure to hold on to the sash or it can fall and shatter.

  • If the upper sashes are painted shut cut them loose with a utility knife.

    Note: Take your time when working around old glass and be sure to wear eye and hand protection.

  • Cut the silicone bead that secures the casing to the exterior siding (figure B).

  • Use a reciprocating saw to cut out the old frame.

    Tip: Cut at an angle rather than straight across. This will make it easier to push the pieces out.

  • Remove all the old casing around the exterior frame.

    Framing In the Rough Opening

    1. First, be sure to clean the rough opening well -- and note that a heavy-duty vacuum can assist with this chore.

    2. Measure the windows and frame in the opening with 2 x 4's.

    3. Place the boards on the top (figure C) and the bottom first, then put in side boards. That way you'll get more structural support out of you framing.

    4. To fill the space between the new framing and the sheathing, use 1 x 4's ripped to fit the gap (figure D).

    After a day of work the rough opening is ready for the installation of the new window in the next segment.
    Photo

    Figure C

    Photo

    Figure D



    RESOURCES :

    Double-hung Windows (Pella)
    Brand name: Architect Series
    Color: Champagne finish hardware, white exterior aluminum cladding
    Where available: Call Pell or visit their website, information below.
    Pella Windows & Doors
    Website: www.pella.com

    Ladders (Werner Co.)
    Werner Co.
    10800 W. Belmont Ave.
    Franklin Park, IL 60131
    Phone: 847-455-9450
    Website: www.wernerladder.com


    GUESTS :

    Shane Kretsinger
    Vice President, Operations
    Autumn River
    We apologize no contact information is available.

    Tracy Anderson
    Sales representative
    Pella Windows & Doors
    7101 France Ave. S
    Edina, MN 55434
    Phone: 952-915-6080

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: