Worker is installing a window sill on a polyurethane foam.

Window Replacement: Everything You Need To Know

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Winter isn’t too far off, and you want your home to retain as much heat as possible during the upcoming cold months. The process of window replacement takes time and preparation, but it can save you money on your energy bill, as well as offering your home a facelift and added curb appeal.

Things to do before getting your new windows

The process of getting new windows starts well before installation. First, do your research and find a reputable window installation company. At Custom Window Designs, we’re known for our superior installation work and for making our own custom windows, which means we can customize any design to suit your needs. Once you’ve booked an appointment, we visit your home to measure all the windows, discuss any concerns you may have and provide any additional information you may have.

Once you’ve decided on the perfect windows for your home, this is what a customer will expect during a window replacement process:

Remove Window Jamb Extension

The window trim and jamb extension are removed from around the old window. A jamb extension is a piece of wood that has been moved down and attached to the window jamb to make it aligned with the wall. The old window is then unscrewed from the jamb and removed carefully.

Prepare Opening for Window

Next up is preparing the opening of the new window. The window jamb should be inspected for any damage and damaged jambs are replaced or repaired. The repair or replacement can impact the size of your window opening, so it’s measured again with an added 1/4” to 3/8” to allow some extra space on the exterior dimensions of the new window.

Inspect the Window Before Installment

The window stop is the next thing to be inspected. Generally, window stops can be reused, but if they appear damaged they should be replaced. Before any silicone is applied, the new window should be dry fitted to make sure there are no issues with how it will fit. Once it fits snuggly with no issues, remove the new window.

Install Window Into Position

To install the window, silicone is applied to the inside edge of the window and then it’s slid into place. It’s important that the window is aligned, so a level is used across the top of the window. Cedar shims are also pressed in between the bottom of the window frame and jamb to keep it level, which is critical to the installation.

Two screws are then put into each side of the window, one on the top and one on the bottom. There should be pre-drilled holes in the window frame for the screws. Once the window is secured, we’ll add insulation in the gaps around the window frame and wall studs. Spray foam works well for hard to reach spots.

Install Window Moulding

Your pre-selected style of moulding is then be installed around the window. Each piece will be measured and cut with a mitre saw to the appropriate length. The trim is attached with finishing nails.

Nail and Paint Window Trim

The final step is to fill any nail holes with stainable or paintable wood putty and then stain or paint the trim moulding to finish the job.

Are you planning on replacing your windows? At Custom Window Designs, we’ll walk you through every step of our process and answer all your questions about window replacement, so you know what to expect on the day your new windows arrive. Contact us if you need window replacement in Mississauga or the Greater Toronto Area.

Call 1-866-690-7990 for a FREE quote!