Installing Windows in New construction

Installing a window in a freshly framed opening is one of the more simple tasks in a building project.

Most new building windows have what is called a nailing fin. These are found on vinyl or aluminum clad windows. This nailing fin is either vinyl or metal and has nail holes every 4 to 6 inches and about 1 and 1/2 inches wide. Nailing fins take the place of brick moulding which can still be found on primed wooden windows.

Carpentry Framing

Not only do these fins make facility easier, but also make a great seal against water and air infiltration. These windows can be flashed if desired but not deemed necessary. A window that does not have the advantage of a soffit or porch roof above it may need flashing or a drip edge above it.

When getting ready to setup a window, make sure the sheathing is not hanging into the rough opening. This could cut down the size of the opening and not let the window go into the opening. Once this is done, portion the rough opening to make sure the it is big adequate for the window. You don't want to lift a heavy window to an opening only to find it won't fit. Rough openings are commonly 1" wider and 1/2" taller than the window unit. Rough openings are spect and in case,granted by the window manufacturer.

Depending on the size of the window, you'll need 2 or 3 habitancy to setup a window. One or two exterior and one inside.

Once you know the window fits, lift it to the opening from the outside. Set it on the sill and push it into the opening until the nail fins hit the wall. Make sure none of the fins folded themselves back into the opening especially the bottom one. The man on the inside then centers the window in the opening. Then using a level, checks it for plumb and level, and applies shims where needed. You may also want to check the window for square, although a window that's accomplished and in the locked position commonly is. The window can now be nailed in. My preference is roofing nails but 8d nails or cap nails will do the job.

If it is a suitable jamb (4 9/16) other thing to check is how far it runs past the rough framing. This should be 1/2 inch. You'll also want to make sure the window operates properly. Duplicate hungs should slide up and down really and casements should crank in and out without hanging up.

(C) 2005 Mike Merisko http://www.sawkerfs.com

Installing Windows in New construction

Installing a window in a freshly framed opening is one of the more simple tasks in a building project.

Most new building windows have what is called a nailing fin. These are found on vinyl or aluminum clad windows. This nailing fin is either vinyl or metal and has nail holes every 4 to 6 inches and about 1 and 1/2 inches wide. Nailing fins take the place of brick moulding which can still be found on primed wooden windows.

Carpentry Framing

Not only do these fins make facility easier, but also make a great seal against water and air infiltration. These windows can be flashed if desired but not deemed necessary. A window that does not have the advantage of a soffit or porch roof above it may need flashing or a drip edge above it.

When getting ready to setup a window, make sure the sheathing is not hanging into the rough opening. This could cut down the size of the opening and not let the window go into the opening. Once this is done, portion the rough opening to make sure the it is big adequate for the window. You don't want to lift a heavy window to an opening only to find it won't fit. Rough openings are commonly 1" wider and 1/2" taller than the window unit. Rough openings are spect and in case,granted by the window manufacturer.

Depending on the size of the window, you'll need 2 or 3 habitancy to setup a window. One or two exterior and one inside.

Once you know the window fits, lift it to the opening from the outside. Set it on the sill and push it into the opening until the nail fins hit the wall. Make sure none of the fins folded themselves back into the opening especially the bottom one. The man on the inside then centers the window in the opening. Then using a level, checks it for plumb and level, and applies shims where needed. You may also want to check the window for square, although a window that's accomplished and in the locked position commonly is. The window can now be nailed in. My preference is roofing nails but 8d nails or cap nails will do the job.

If it is a suitable jamb (4 9/16) other thing to check is how far it runs past the rough framing. This should be 1/2 inch. You'll also want to make sure the window operates properly. Duplicate hungs should slide up and down really and casements should crank in and out without hanging up.

(C) 2005 Mike Merisko http://www.sawkerfs.com

Installing Windows in New construction