The Ultimate Guide to Self-Installation of Vinyl Replacement Windows

Understanding the High Cost of Window Replacement

When you receive quotes from contractors for window replacement, the figures might be startlingly high. This is because the price includes not only the windows themselves but also the salaries of the salesperson, the installers, and the company owner. In some cases, there's also a broker involved who takes a cut. By taking on the measuring and installation yourself, you can eliminate these labor costs and make the project much more affordable.

Accurate Measurement: The Key to Perfect Fit

Measuring your windows correctly is crucial. Incorrect measurements can lead to windows that don't fit properly, causing additional problems or necessitating the purchase of new windows. Here's how to measure for double hung replacement windows:

1. Measure the width at three points: the top, middle, and bottom of the window frame. Use the smallest of these measurements and subtract 1/4 inch to determine the width of your new window.
2. For the height, measure from the highest point of the sloped sill to where the upper sash closes. Do this at the right, middle, and left side of the window. Use the smallest measurement and subtract 3/16 inch for the height.
3. Measure the depth of the pocket where the sashes slide, from the outside stop to the inside stop. This should be between 3 1/4 inches and 3 1/2 inches.

Ensure you provide the dimensions in WIDTH x HEIGHT format when ordering your windows.

Selecting Quality Vinyl Replacement Windows

When shopping for windows, look for features that indicate quality:

• Tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning
• A constant force balance coil mechanism to keep the window open
• Double glazing with a spacer material, preferably an intercept spacer or super spacer
• A U-Value under .40 for better insulation
• LowE glass to further improve insulation

Avoid economical windows that lack tilt-in features and use lower-quality mechanisms like block and tackle or spiral tube balances, which are prone to failure. Also, be wary of windows with a U-Value around .50, as they offer less insulation.

Preparing for Installation

Once you have your measurements and know what to look for in a quality window, you're ready to purchase and install your new vinyl replacement windows. Stay tuned for the next article, where we'll cover the removal of old wood windows and the installation process for your new vinyl replacements.

Interesting stats and facts about vinyl replacement windows that are often overlooked include their impact on energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. By choosing windows with a lower U-Value and LowE glass, homeowners can significantly reduce this energy loss. Furthermore, the National Association of Realtors suggests that homeowners can expect to recoup approximately 73% of their vinyl window replacement costs in home value, making it a wise investment.

For more information on energy-efficient windows, visit the U.S. Department of Energy or check out the National Fenestration Rating Council for ratings and performance of different window products.