| Installing a window in a freshly framed | | | | 1/2" taller than the window unit. Rough |
| opening is one of the more simple tasks in a | | | | openings are spect and provided by the window |
| construction project.Most new construction | | | | manufacturer.Depending on the size of the |
| windows have what is called a nailing fin. | | | | window, you'll need 2 or 3 people to install |
| These are found on vinyl or aluminum clad | | | | a window. One or two outside and one |
| windows. This nailing fin is either vinyl or | | | | inside.Once you know the window fits, lift it |
| metal and has nail holes every 4 to 6 inches | | | | to the opening from the outside. Set it on |
| and about 1 and 1/2 inches wide. Nailing fins | | | | the sill and push it into the opening until |
| take the place of brick moulding which can | | | | the nail fins hit the wall. Make sure none of |
| still be found on primed wooden windows.Not | | | | the fins folded themselves back into the |
| only do these fins make installation easier, | | | | opening especially the bottom one. The person |
| but also make a better seal against water and | | | | on the inside then centers the window in the |
| air infiltration. These windows can be | | | | opening. Then using a level, checks it for |
| flashed if desired but not deemed necessary. | | | | plumb and level, and applies shims where |
| A window that does not have the benefit of a | | | | needed. You may also want to check the window |
| soffit or porch roof above it may need | | | | for square, although a window that's closed |
| flashing or a drip edge above it.When getting | | | | and in the locked position usually is. The |
| ready to install a window, make sure the | | | | window can now be nailed in. My preference |
| sheathing is not hanging into the rough | | | | is roofing nails but 8d nails or cap nails |
| opening. This could cut down the size of the | | | | will do the job.If it is a standard jamb (4 9 |
| opening and not let the window go into the | | | | 16) another thing to check is how far it runs |
| opening. Once this is done, measure the rough | | | | past the rough framing. This should be 1/2 |
| opening to make sure the it is big enough for | | | | inch. You'll also want to make sure the |
| the window. You don't want to lift a heavy | | | | window operates properly. Double hungs should |
| window to an opening only to find it won't | | | | slide up and down easily and casements should |
| fit. Rough openings are usually 1" wider and | | | | crank in and out without hanging up. |