Doors and Windows - Can a beginner DIY'er replace a window?
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MLG010105
10-23-09, 08:30 PM
My husband and I just bought a fixer-upper. Most of the work is cosmetic, however, several of the windows need to be replaced.
Neither one of us is very handy, but I've always heard people say it is "easy" to replace a window.
Is this a simple DIY project or is it only the natural DIY'ers who feel this is "easy"? :)
I don't want to get into the middle of something and end up feeling like this: :wall::wall::wall:
Thanks for the input! :D
Neither one of us is very handy, but I've always heard people say it is "easy" to replace a window.
Is this a simple DIY project or is it only the natural DIY'ers who feel this is "easy"? :)
I don't want to get into the middle of something and end up feeling like this: :wall::wall::wall:
Thanks for the input! :D
the_tow_guy
10-24-09, 06:19 AM
Easy is kind of a relative term. The job depends somewhat on several factors such as (1) The material of the surrounding structure (wood, block, brick, etc), (2) The style/material of the old window, and (3) The style/material of the replacement window.
If it was me I would pick one window, preferably the least visible/noticeable or easiest to work on, and give it a try. There is tons of instruction information available, so you should be able to find plenty of help. Plus, somebody here at DIY is usually hanging around drinking coffee. :D
Here's some starter help:
Search | DoItYourself.com (http://www.doityourself.com/search?cx=001590987097188515156%3Amnzw9txmkiu&cof=FORID%3A9&client=ib_cse&channel=DIY_Domain_CSE&qt=window+replacement&q=window+replacement+more%3Ahow-to_articles#1449)
If it was me I would pick one window, preferably the least visible/noticeable or easiest to work on, and give it a try. There is tons of instruction information available, so you should be able to find plenty of help. Plus, somebody here at DIY is usually hanging around drinking coffee. :D
Here's some starter help:
Search | DoItYourself.com (http://www.doityourself.com/search?cx=001590987097188515156%3Amnzw9txmkiu&cof=FORID%3A9&client=ib_cse&channel=DIY_Domain_CSE&qt=window+replacement&q=window+replacement+more%3Ahow-to_articles#1449)
Bud9051
10-24-09, 06:34 AM
As I sip my coffee:).
Some tools help and buying them and learning to use them is all part of becoming a DIY'er. Describe some more details as the tow guy suggested and someone will outline what you are looking at.
Bud
Some tools help and buying them and learning to use them is all part of becoming a DIY'er. Describe some more details as the tow guy suggested and someone will outline what you are looking at.
Bud
Wayne Mitchell
10-25-09, 07:51 AM
There are two types of windows common for upgrades. You can buy new construction windows or what are called replacement windows.
New construction windows are typically more difficult to install since they require removal of the entire existing window system down to the rough opening and removal of some siding . Just how hard the job is depends on the type of siding and the location of the windows.
The second type sold as replacement windows are designed to be installed from inside the house. They are sized to fit within the existing window jambs. There are drawbacks to this type. Primarily you will lose some amount of glass since the entire frame is smaller than the original window. The advantage of this type window is the ease of installation (I replaced 23 windows over a weekend - by myself).
One warning - whichever type you choose, try to buy the best your budget allows.
New construction windows are typically more difficult to install since they require removal of the entire existing window system down to the rough opening and removal of some siding . Just how hard the job is depends on the type of siding and the location of the windows.
The second type sold as replacement windows are designed to be installed from inside the house. They are sized to fit within the existing window jambs. There are drawbacks to this type. Primarily you will lose some amount of glass since the entire frame is smaller than the original window. The advantage of this type window is the ease of installation (I replaced 23 windows over a weekend - by myself).
One warning - whichever type you choose, try to buy the best your budget allows.