In this video we show how to install vinyl replacement windows. We previously measured every window opening before we placed the order and we got lucky that all openings were within 1/8". Hope you like it and please subscribe.
I’ve been installing Harvey windows for 30 years.Replacements and new construction.I found instead of screwing the adjustable sill piece that comes with the windows to the sill I attached it to the window and put it in as a unit so it will adjust itself onto the sill.Iv learned over the years that trying to spray foam into the sides of the windows as u mentioned in ur video will bow the windows in some cases and will make the sash’s harder to operate up and down.So in most cases I stuff insulation on the sides with a wide putty knife and add extra insulation to the cap cover so it pushes it up tight so there is no need to use the small screws provided with the windows.I make my measurements on replacement windows quarter,half meaning less than quarter on ur total width and less than half inch on ur height .If u order these windows from Harvey’s u need to be specific on ur measurements or they will deduct from ur measurements and make the windows smaller.Caulking ur outside stops before u install the windows as u showed in ur video is a great way to do it.Every window job is different and most present a challenge to a novice .
Thanks for the comment, I totally agree with you and yes, each window install has its own set of challenges and uniqueness to them. When ordering replacement windows you can give them the measurement of the rough opening and the manufacturer will reduce to make fit. In this particular project I requested actual window size. As for the foam insulation, yes you have to be very careful. If the gap is too big the foam will expand to the point of bowing the window and making the sash too tight to operate. But this gap was so small that foam insulation had no effect in its operation. Thanks for the tip on the window sill, those tiny screws are a pain in the neck.
Always makes me chuckle when these how-to videos show a perfectly flush window opening. In reality there's always wonky siding, extended brick, recessed studs and a bunch of other obstacles that not only make it difficult to get a proper measurement to order the windows (since the old windows are still in place) but also cause a lot of work to make clean and flush. Not a shot at the video as this was fine for a basic understanding, but a DIYer will be lost when they try to tear out their first window expecting a perfect opening for the window to slide right in.
I doubt people don't watch only one video to learn something like this. Or, at least I hope they watch more than one video. With watching multiple videos people can gain insight from many different people. This is a clean install process that also contained tips like the bottom window connection plate/thing, and the hidden holes for screws that I had not seen in other videos. Those things may pertain to just these Harvey windows, but it certainly was useful and I'm glad he posted the video.
Would have liked to see removal and prep and more focus on insuring window is centered and square Also should bottom sill have been caulk in a couple of lines before installing window?
Thanks for the visit! Yes, you want to caulk the bottom seal to prevent water from back flowing into the framing. As far as removal and prep, we will do another video on our next window replacement job. Thanks again for the comment👍
The sealant to be used will depend on many factors, from the type of surface to the climate in the area. There are many options suitable for both interior and exterior applications, from sealants that require painting after it is applied to sealants that permanently seal the surface in one application. Window manufacturers and suppliers will have recommendations for your specific installation. Hope this helps.
When doing your replacement, I didn’t see you check plum & square. Is that’s something you don’t really have to do with window replacement of newer homes? Mine was built in 2009. I think my windows’ glass seals are compromised.
Thanks for the visit. To your comment, here is a few things to consider. The window should be installed in an opening that is plumbed, squared and appropriately framed with required header to protect the window. The window should be installed with needed shims evenly spaced to center the window in the opening and securing it with fasteners without bowing out nor bulging in the window frame. Double pane window who's seals are compromise can be fixed at a local glass company. You can remove the affected window sash and have it repaired by a local glass company. If your window is compromised you may be able to see moisture buildup inside the glass panes. Thanks, let me know if this helps.
Anderson salesman sugar coated the installation process. He didn't explain that interior molding and original metal pieces had to be removed to get the old sashes out. This would be major disruption of window opening. Also they would cap the outside original wood molding. The price "quote" from Anderson started at $3,000 per window, would be reduced if you "signed today." I call that high pressure sales tactics. The original "sales pitch" I expected to be 1 hour long was in fact over 4 hour endurance contest! Who pays for this waste of time? We know who!
Thanks for the visit! I feel your pain. Window manufacturers have different methods and procedures to build their windows but they all have to meet the same energy conservation standards. Installation process may vary, depending on field conditions. Metal capping the exterior trims is a choice that some people use to cover old trims, hide chipping paint or lead paint and this add significantly to the overall cost.
Hey Paul! Thanks for the visit. That is correct, if no shims are available, the installer would have to be very careful not to over tighten the screws.
Thanks for the visit Tommy! Ideally, you want to minimize the space between the window and the frame in order to make it energy efficient. If the gap is larger than an 1/8th of an inch, try to center the window on the opening using shims and use insulation to fill the gap. Good luck!
You can definitely do it if you have basic tools and some carpentry related skills. However, I would suggest hiring an experienced contractor. There are many factors to consider from taking the correct measurements to selecting the type of window to be installed. Then there is considerations to the type of exterior and interior trims. Thanks for asking👍
Any preferred replacement windows (by manufacturer)? Any manufacturer to avoid? We need to replace our windows (7) and I would love to hear from professionals... Thanks in advance
Window manufacturers in the US have to comply with established standards of quality. Preference is dependent on several factors, from value, customization, pricing, etc. For this year (2023) Forbes Home lists Andersen Windows as best overall, JED-WEN for best value, Marvin Windows for best customization options, Milgard for best budget option, Pella for best pricing selection, Weather Shield, Kolbe Windows, Mi Windows, Loewen Windows, Harvey Windows, are all good ones. Hope this helps, good luck!
Hi Cliff! Thanks for the comment, I do use shims when needed. These particular windows had almost no gap between the window frame and the opening and shims were not needed.
Can you accept me as your student? I own the house I want to learn to fix the basic stuff for my house because hired someone too much I have to pay that why. Thanks.
Thanks for the visit, looks like you are already educating yourself. There are hundreds of things that you can do on your own to keep up with your house.
Absolutely! Thanks for the observation, checking the rough opening for levelness is an important step. We do that step the moment we remove the old window to determine if shimming is required for install. That is also why it is important to have a slight gap between the window and the rough opening, to allow for adjustments.
😂😂😂 it’s funny you mention the caulking. I had my helper going after each window doing the finishing touches. I had to edit and cutout a few clips to make the video short. But yes, it’s important to finish the outside with caulking. Thank for the comment.
