How to Install Double Hung Windows in Your Home?

Just like any other thing in your home, windows also require maintenance and replacement from time to time. If you are a DIY aspirer, you can carry out the process of removing and installing double hung windows at your home with the right tools specifications and a clear guide on how to replace a double hung window.

You will need to use following tools and materials to replace double hinged windows and make it an easy task for yourself.

Required Tools

• Cordless Drill
• Hammer
• Pliers
• Flat-head screwdrivers
• Protractor
• Putty knife
• Tape measure
• Utility knife
• Work gloves
• Safety goggles

Required Materials

• Window hardware
• Screws
• Double-hung windows
• Caulk
• Minimal expanding foam
• Fiberglass insulation
• Shims

Measurements for New Double-Hung Replacement Windows

For the replacement of an existing double-hung window, you need to obtain the exact measurements of old window for the making of new one to make it the best double hung windows installation. Take measurements from 4 different angles to get the new one perfectly sized. For the width, take the measurements at the bottom, top and centre of the window inside the frame and for height, measure it inside the window.

After taking measurements, place an order for side by side double hung windows about two weeks prior to the installation. Once you receive the new replacement double hung windows, now it’s time to get ready for removing and installation of double hung window. You can follow the same procedure in case you need to know how to repair double hung windows or want to fix double hung window and looking for a replacement.

How to Install Double Hung Vinyl Windows

Follow the procedure in sequence to successfully install a DIY replacement double hung window

Step 1: Remove Interior stop and bottom sash

Start your replacement with removing the inside stop and the bottom sash ( the main part of the window) with the help of a stiff putty knife and a small pry bar to protect the wood. To minimize paint chipping on painted windows, score the joint between the window frame and stop with a utility knife before prying off the stop.

Step 2: Remove the centre stop and top sash

Using a utility knife and the back of a hammer; take out the centre stop and top sash. If your windows have spring balances or metal jamb liners rather than sash weights, start by removing the interior stops. Then look for the screws or nails that secure the sash hardware and remove them.

Step 3: Install the new top sash

Fit the new top sash of the double hung window and then secure it by screwing up the top brackets into the window frame. If you find sash weight cavity inside the window then stuff it with insulation. Lay a bead of polyurethane window and door caulk along the inside of the blind stop and backside of the window stool.

Step 4: Install the brackets and window

In case of brackets, place the first bracket about 4" down from the top on both sides; then install the bottom bracket 2" up from bottom of the top sash on one side. Screw in the other bracket midway between the top and the bottom brackets. While for a complete replacement window, rest the bottom of the double hung replacement window on the sill and tile the window into place against the blind stop. If it includes a window expander, position it over the top of the jamb and press the window tight against the caulked blind stop.

Step 5: fasten the windows

Wood or vinyl replacement inserts are usually a bit smaller than the window jamb opening to allow for shimming. To make a window operating smoothly is to get the frame perfectly square and the sides straight. You need to loosely fasten the window into the frame with partially driven screws in the lower left and upper right corners.

Step 6: Install the Jamb Liners

The jamb liners provide the channel for the lower sash to be raised up and down so you need to measure and cut the vinyl jamb liners to fit the window frame size. Screw in and fit the vinyl jamb liners securely against the frame of the window. Snap in the jamb liner on both sides. Press firmly over each clip location until you hear or feel the liner snap onto the clips.

Step 7: Install the sashes

Hold the top sash with the exterior facing up and the metal cams away from you. Tilt the sash a little and align the metal pivots with the slots in the jamb liner closest to the exterior. Make sure the pivots are above the sash lifts. Tilt up the sash and press outward on the jamb liner while you snap the top of the sash into place between the jamb liners. Slide the sash down until the metal cams contact the sash lifts. Repeat the procedure with the lower sash and test the window operation.

Step 8: Test the window operation

Now, test the window by opening and closing the sashes and checking it for the fitting to the frame. You can always unscrew and reset the frame.

Final Note:

Installing double hung vinyl replacement windows can be an interesting DIY project for many, but a slight negligence or rush may result into negative consequences. After referring to this article, there shouldn’t be any such instance but still if you think you don’t have time and expertise required to do it on your own, consider hiring a windows replacement contractor. Getting it done with a professional always payback the benefits of installing double hung windows for years!

Ashton is an author with interest in writing related various aspects of construction business. A professionally trained roofer and painter, Ashton has spent the last decade reading and writing about construction industry!