If your existing window frame has no rot you should be able to install a replacement window. As long as the frame is square, you can follow these instructions to learn how to replace old windows. Anyone comfortable using a power drill and caulking gun can successfully complete this project. New windows along with a little expanding foam insulation will make your home in the Delaware Valley feel much cozier.
Steps for How to Replace Old Windows
- Measure the window’s width from jamb to jamb at the top, middle, and bottom.
- Use the shortest measurement.
- Measure the height from sill top to the head jamb at the right, middle, and left.
- Use the shortest measurement.
- Confirm that the window frame is sufficiently square.
- Take two diagonal measurements.
- If they do not differ by more that 1/4 inch, you can continue.
- Buy replacement windows using the shortest width and height dimensions.
- Pry off interior window stops.
- Take care to preserve them if you want to use them again.
- Remove parting beads and take out the upper sash.
- If jamb liners are present, take them off with pry bar.
- With paint scraper and putty knife, clean off debris.
- Fix holes with exterior-grade wood putty.
- If old sash weights are present, pull them out.
- Dig out any old fiberglass insulation.
- Drill 3/8-inch holes into sill and head jamb.
- Use holes to insert expanding foam insulation into interior spaces until it comes out of the holes.
- Allow foam to harden and scrape off excess.
- Run two beads of caulk on the windowsill and up around the edges where the window will sit.
- From the interior, set the new window on the sill and tip it into the space.
- Make sure that the window is pressed firmly into position.
- Secure it with a single screw on the side jamb.
- Add shims around the window as you adjust its fit.
- Confirm that the window operates smoothly.
- Place shims behind predrilled screw holes and install all screws.
- Trim off excess shims with utility knife.
- Caulk around window edges inside and out.
