If you own a home, you must be prepared to do some home repairs at some point. However, you don’t have to be a professional to take care of things yourself for everything. While some jobs may require the help of a professional, window replacement is a task any homeowner, or someone wishing to execute a home removal soon, can undertake, regardless of experience. With the right tools and the right tips, you can successfully execute a window replacement or window installation like a professional!
Typically we always DIY everything but when it came to replacing our windows this time around, we just had too much on our plate and hired the professionals to step in and help. And we couldn’t have been happier with the window company we hired. They were friendly, professional, and in and out within a day. It’s so nice to have brand new- clean windows to light the light shine through into our home.
But if you are going to tackle the task of DIY’ing your windows, we are sharing with you four handy window replacement tips.
Do some research
Going into the project with a basic understanding of the repair process makes everything easier. It also ensures that the project you start is successful. Apart from the beautiful look of a new window set, you can also bargain for a better deal, should you decide to move your home and fund a home relocation. By doing some quick online searches, you can get a better idea of what it is you’re going to be doing. By learning the parts of the window and their functions, you’ll be more prepared to shop for your supplies and know what to expect when beginning the actual execution. You’ll need to know how to operate any machinery that you might need too, so make sure you look into that as well.
Be careful with your measurements
Construction relies heavily on the worker’s precision. A replacement window is sized according to the empty space left by the old window, so take your measurements from inside the house. Measure the width from jamb to jamb, taking measurements at the top, middle, and bottom of the window. Use the width of the narrowest measurement for the replacement. Find the height by measuring from the top of the sill to the bottom of the head jamb. Like the width, you want to find the smallest usable measurement, so measure at the left, middle, and right of the window and use the shortest measurement. Follow all of these instructions, if you want to avoid potential disasters, especially at times of moving a home.
Get the right supplies
Replacing a window requires certain tools and parts. This is where your research comes in handy. Make sure you have all of the proper tools, both for removing the old window and installing the new one. A tape measure, a hammer, a power drill or driver, a level, a pry bar, and safety glasses are the necessary tools you’ll need for your window work. Parts vary depending on the type of installation you need. The three basic types of window replacements are sash kits, insert replacements, and full-frame units. Assess your situation and decide which type is right for you, regardless of whether you are trying to improve the resale value of your home before relocation, or if you have just concluded a home moving process and you need new windows. Make sure you go to the store with a list of the specific parts you need for your type of installation.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Pride is not worth getting hurt over. If you need help with your project, ask a friend, relative, or paid professional to assist you. While window replacement is perfectly doable, it isn’t a simple task. If you start the process and realize halfway through that you might need help, stop and ask for help. There’s no shame in asking for an extra hand, especially if installing new windows is part of your plan to sell your home!
Oh what a bummer. Of course! Happy to help! Best of luck!!
My front window randomly cracked last night. Thanks for the advice about doing some research and being careful with your measurements so that you can get the right window. We’ll have to make sure that we get a professional to help us so that we don’t ruin our window frame and the energy efficiency of the house.