Windows are the way that opens your interior home to the outside and brightens your rooms with natural light. However, besides all the advantages, windows accompany a fair number of issues when not performing at top condition.
You may wonder when we need new construction window installation. The answer is simple, when window repair or fixes are no longer helping, or simply when you seek a new style.
Below, we’ll talk through a DIY new window installation process. So keep reading to learn everything you need.
Replacement Window Vs. New Construction Window
When thinking of new construction window installation for your home, you have a choice between replacement windows and new construction windows; it’s a fairly straightforward decision.
New construction window installation is a good idea when the wall systems are being originally constructed and substantially rebuilt. Replacement windows are used when the existing window needs to be replaced without altering surrounding wall systems.
New construction windows are meant for clear openings in the house, usually with no trim or siding already in place. If you’re building a new house, a new addition, or substantially rebuilding the wall for any reason, you’ll need new construction window installation. New construction windows are easily available and in stock at most home centers.
Replacement windows are ideal if the wall has already been built and cannot disturbed in any major way. Installing replacement windows requires much less work than installing new construction windows, as you won’t have to significantly alter the entire wall system. While there is less overall work, the actual installation methods can be tricky, and you may want to hire a professional.
Replacement windows are also more difficult for do-it-yourselfers to obtain than new construction window installation, although there are some helpful online resources.
Overall, installing windows is a big project, but figuring out what you need is a great first step!
New Construction Window Installation
Warning: Try not to eliminate the nailing flanges from a new construction window to switch it over to a replacement window except if the manufacturer explicitly expresses that this is allowable.
Step 1: Frame the window.
Frame the rough opening for the window in the ideal part of the wall. If the rough opening spans different studs, be sure that all studs are appropriately propped and upheld.
Step 2: Install the weather-resistant barrier
The weather-resistant barrier (WRB) should be rolled out onto the wall and attached with cap staples to the wall in the shape of a roughly 2-foot by 2-foot grid.
Step 3: Cut the WRB
To do so, you need:
- Cut the WRB’s piece covering the window opening into a capital I form once it has been affixed to the wall.
- Cut down the middle of the rough opening after first cutting across the top and bottom.
- Reposition the WRB by folding it over the vertical sides of the opening.
- Next, make a 4- to 6-inch diagonal cut in the WRB starting from each of the top corners of the window rough opening.
- Take the flap and fold it upward, securing it to the WRB above using a small piece of tape.
Step 4. The sill flashing Installation
Flash the window’s rough opening from the window frame down over the WRB using rubberized flashing tape. The piece of flashing tape should be 6 to 8 inches longer than the rough opening at the bottom of the window. In this manner, it will be long enough to fold up the trim studs’ sides by three to four inches apiece.
First, tape the frame’s bottom and then up the sides. Each corner should be trimmed downward before the tape is folded over the WRB. To make sure the flashing tape is securely fastened to the window frame and the WRB, use a J-roller. To guarantee that the flashing tape is secured and in place, cap staples may also be utilized.
Step 5: New construction window installation
Install the window based on the manufacturer’s instructions. Please pay attention that each manufacturer has their own specific instructions, such as caulking, sealing, insulation specifications, and appropriate fasteners.
Deviating from the instructions will easily void the warranty of the window. And lastly, make sure the window is plump and level.
Step 6: Installation of the side and top flashing
Once the window has been installed, you’ll need to install the side and top flashing. Be sure to choose the flashing tape that its size is 2 or 3 inches wider than the window trim to ensure any fasteners going through the trim or the siding will penetrate the self-sealing tape’s membrane.
Beginning with the sides, cut a piece of tape long enough to cover the relief slits that were cut in the sill flashing, but not so long that it extends above the top of the flashing tape. Make sure the tape is firmly sealed to the window flanges and WRB using a J-roller.
Step 7. Installation of the top flashing
After installing the side flashing, it’s time to top the flashing installation. Cut a piece of tape long enough to extend a few inches past the side flashing. Using a J-roller, apply the tape over the side flashing and top window flange, making sure it is completely sealed.
Step 8: Install the window trim
Using the fasteners recommended by the manufacturer for the intended installation, install the window trim according to the appropriate architectural detail that was selected for the home.
Step 9: Install the z-flashing
Over the top edge of the top section of the window trim, install metal Z-flashing. Use the appropriate fastener type for the material of the Z-flashing that is being utilized.
Step 10. Fold down the WRB
Take the cut and taped piece of WRB above the window and fold it down, ensuring that it goes over the top of the metal Z-flashing. Secure the corners with tape to ensure that it lies flat.
Step 11: Install the siding
After properly installing and flashing the window, complete the wall by installing the chosen siding around the newly installed window.
FAQ
How to install new construction window with existing siding?
To do this, follow the below steps:
- Measure the existing window
- Prepare the inside of the old window area
- Remove the old window, vinyl casing, and any damaged vinyl siding
- Check the widow area
- Add sill flashing tape
- Dry fit the new window
How to install new construction windows in a brick house?
- Measure the space accurately
- Take out the existing window
- Remove the existing screws and nails
- Install the flashing
- Set the replacement
- Screw the window in place
- Insulate the frame
- Replace the trim
For a single window with a larger opening, you can simply use a brick chisel and hammer out the mortar between each brick until you get to the header. Then pry the bricks apart enough for your header boards to fit, install them, and put them in your new window.
How to install new construction vinyl windows?
- Prepare the opening by measuring the rough opening to ensure it matches the window size. Remove any existing trim or window components. Clean the opening and ensure it is free from debris.
- Install the appropriate flashing tape or membrane around the perimeter of the rough opening. Be certain it is properly sealed and adhered to the surrounding wall.
- Carefully place the new construction vinyl window into the rough opening. You’ll need to ensure it is plump, centered, and level both vertically and horizontally.
- Attach the window to the framing using screws or nails through the pre-drilled holes in the nailing flange. Place fasteners evenly and securely to ensure proper support.
- Apply insulation foam or caulking around the window frame to provide insulation and create an airtight seal.
- Open and close the window to ensure it operates smoothly and if needed make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper functionality.
- Attach the exterior trim pieces around the window to provide a finished look.
- Inspect the window and surrounding areas for any signs of water leaks.
- Complete the interior finishing, such as installing interior trim or casing around the window, according to your desired design and style.
What’s the new construction window installation cost?
In summer 2023, the new construction window installation cost starts at $607 to $907 per window.
Bottom Line
If you need a professional, committed, and quick-to-responder, we offer you Esna Glass. They are professionals, especially in the field of any window installation type with 24/7 service and are ready to address all your needs and concerns.
