How to Replace Home Windows

Houses with older windows are not as energy efficient as they could be. Replacing the old windows with new, energy efficient windows will make the home more comfortable and will save you money. Replacing home windows yourself can save you a lot of money, but it will take some time.

Some items you will need to have on hand:

• New window


• Level


• Shims


• Hammer


• Pry bar


• Caulking gun and clear latex caulk


• Air compressor


• Framing nailer


• Finish nailer


• Box cutter


• Pliers


• Reciprocating saw

1. Remove the window trim from around all four sides of the window. Cut the caulk with a box cutter between the wall and the trim, and use a pry bar to lift the trim off the wall. If you plan to reuse the window trim, remove it carefully and pull out the nails with a pair of pliers.


2. Remove the windowsill by hitting it upward from the bottom until it is loose enough to pull out.


3. Go outside and remove any trim framing the window. Cut the caulk with the box cutter and pry the trim up with the pry bar. Once the trim is removed, you should be able to see the screws or nails holding the window to the window frame.


4. Use the reciprocating saw to cut the nails or screws between the window and the frame.


5. Remove the window carefully and set it to the side. Having a helper would be beneficial, especially for larger windows.


6. Put the replacement window in place. Insert shims between the window and frame at each corner and in the middle of all sides. Insert the shims so that they overlap, one from the inside and the next from the outside, until the window fits snugly.


7. Use a level to check the window. Place the level vertically on each side and horizontally on the top and bottom. If the window is not level, add or remove shims as necessary.


8. Use the framing nailer to nail every place where you inserted shims, three nails in every side. Once the window is nailed in place, cut the shims so that they are flush with the window.


9. Use the finish nailer to replace the outside window trim.


10. Go back inside and use the finish nailer to reinstall the windowsill and interior window trim.


11. Caulk around the inside and outside of the window trim to seal it.