Can You DIY Window Replacement?

Many people out there are very crafty and handy. When they need a new wax ring for their toilet, they can remove the bolts, put it in the ring, and get the job done. When there’s some issue with their railing, they know how to tighten things up. Though what about more complicated jobs such as putting in new windows? This is something that seems like a major undertaking, something that qualifies as legitimate construction, and so a lot of people would never even consider taking on a full window replacement as a DIY job. They might feel comfortable putting in a new sink or laying down new laminate floors, but windows seem like they’re part of the home’s structure and something most people don’t want to fool around with.

Instead of handling this sort of replacement on their own, they turn to qualified window professionals to get it done for them. Is this something that’s necessary? Can you actually put those new windows in yourself without the assistance of the professional installers? Let’s take a closer look at the topic.

Yes, You Can Do Windows as a DIY Project

Actually, putting in windows doesn’t require any sort of specialty construction skills. When your home is initially built, the window openings are framed out, and complete window frames (or boxes) are simply slid into place, shimmed, sealed, and fastened in place permanently. So, after getting those old windows out, all you technically have to do to install the new ones is ensure that they’re the exact size that’s needed.

At least, this is how it works in theory. In practice, however, there’s a whole lot more to it and a whole lot that can go wrong. So, while you technically can perform a window replacement as a DIY job, it’s definitely something that you’re better off allowing the pros to do. Here are a few reasons why.

Reasons You Should Hire the Pros for New Windows

1. The Mess Created

The first thing you’re likely not prepared for is the mess. What are you going to do with the old windows? You’re not just going to stack them up outback, and the public trash utility isn’t going to haul them away for you. Not to even mention the packaging that the new windows will arrive in. Plus, you might have to factor in the old window trim that you’re replacing, which is even more messy to deal with. Renting a dumpster is likely going to cost you a pretty penny and is something you won’t be able to fit into financing like a pro replacement.

2. The Tools Needed

You might end up needing specialty tools. Speed squares and a circular saw and levels, etc., are all needed for a professional job if you’re going for a full replacement of the windows and the existing trim. Again, it’s a question more in the financial realm. Once you purchase all of this stuff, you’re going to end up spending more than just having the pros install the windows.

3. The Time it Takes

There’s also the time it takes to consider. Once those old windows are out, you have gaping holes all over your home. What if you can’t get the new windows in right away? Are you just going to leave your home full of holes without windows until you can get around to it? When you hire the professionals, they’re in and out in a hurry and can have your windows in very quickly.

4. The Ease and Precision

Professionals who install windows understand the precision, and they can do these sorts of jobs with ease. What happens if you mistakenly fix a new window frame off level? You might go to fix it and end up banging on it, breaking the glass. This is just one of many things that can go wrong. This isn’t going to be an issue with the pros.

The bottom line is that while you can replace your windows as a DIY job, it’s going to be much better for you to find a qualified, professional company near you to handle this work for you.