Can I install windows myself?

It can be quite appealing. You get a high quote from your local window installation company for installing replacement windows and you think you can reduce some costs by doing it yourself. Being handy with tools, you think: “Can I replace these windows by myself? If so, what does it take?”
Window replacement requires an understanding of how the original windows were installed, how to properly measure, and how to deal with common issues with installation; for example, trying to put a new window into an opening that is no longer square. This whole process can be quite complicated and tedious.

There’s a couple points to consider:

New-Construction Will Not Work

You cannot just go down to your local Home Depot or Lowes store at midnight and buy replacement windows off the shelf. The reason is that there are two different kinds of residential windows: new construction and replacement.

• New-Construction: Used when you are building a new structure, such as an addition, bump-out, or an entirely new home. These are easily identified because they have nailing fins on the front that allow the window to be nailed flat to the front of the house. The window does slip into the opening, but the nailing fins stop the window short by making contact with the house exterior.
• Replacement: Replacement windows are used when removing and replacing existing windows in existing structures. These do not have nailing fins. This allows the window to fit into the window opening.

Some new-construction windows have nailing fins that arrive with the fins folded back. These can deceptively look like replacement windows.

Some builders state that it is possible to cut off the nailing fins, effectively turning new-construction windows into replacements.

DIY Replacement Windows Difficult to Find

Traditionally, it has been difficult for homeowners to buy their own replacement windows.

Some people believe it is because the supply “food chain” is set up to keep the professional windows industry in business, with customers forced to pay their high prices. By making a DIY installation impossible, even the most motivated DIYer is forced to hire a company to do the job.

Window installers, after all, replace windows every day of their life; what is difficult for the DIYer is easy for them. They can get the job done quicker and more efficient than doing it yourself. In any case, it is difficult for homeowners to buy their own replacement windows for self-installation.

Jeld-Wen is one of the few major window companys that sells only through local installers or retailers. Jeld-Wen representative assured us that any local Home Depot or Lowes or even Ganahl Lumber could take an order to purchase Jeld-Wen replacement (also called pocket) windows.

Are You Ready for Peripheral Work?

When installers put in replacement windows, they often install exterior cladding: aluminum that matches the color of the windows and provides a tight seal against weather. Specialized tools are needed to form the cladding, and there is a learning curve for working with aluminum.

Bottom Line

Window companies do this work all the time and can usually finish your home within a few days or so depending how large the project is. In some instances, it can take longer. Because the replacement window industry is so highly competitive, you can easily find a low bid or wrangle a sweet deal. If you are intent on installing your own replacement windows, watch videos ahead of time so that you know what you are getting into. If you should accept a large delivery of replacement and then find that the job is too much for you, a local contractor, builder, or even a motivated, experienced handyman can complete the job for you.