A Comprehensive Guide to Replacing Double Hung Windows with Vinyl Units

Preparing for Window Removal

Before you begin the removal process, it's crucial to protect yourself. Always wear safety glasses to shield your eyes from debris and gloves to prevent splinters and cuts. With your safety gear on, you can start with the inside stop—the thin strip of wood that holds the lower sash in place.

Removing the Inside Stop

Carefully pry away the inside stop without causing damage, as you'll need to reinstall it later. If the stop cracks, you can find a replacement at a local hardware store. To separate the stop from the wall or trim, use a flat screwdriver or putty knife to break any paint seals, then gently pry the stop away starting from the middle. The number of nails used in the original installation will affect the difficulty of this step. While most windows have stops on all four sides, some may lack a top or bottom stop.

Extracting the Lower Sash

After the inside stops are removed, you can remove the lower sash. If the window has been painted shut, you may need to pry it open carefully. Once removed, cut the cords attached to the sash with tin snips, allowing them to retract into their assemblies. Set the lower sash aside.

Taking Out the Parting Bead

Next, remove the parting bead, which is found between the lower and upper sashes. Since this piece will be discarded, you don't need to be gentle. Pry it out with a screwdriver, starting from the groove between the side frame and the bead. With the parting bead gone, you can remove the upper sash, cutting the cords as you did with the lower sash.

Preparing the Window Opening

With both sashes out, ensure the outside blind stop remains undisturbed. Check for any obstructions, such as nails or old screen tabs, and remove them. Scrape off any old caulking from the outside blind stops to create a smooth surface for the new windows to rest against. Clean up all debris from the opening, and you're ready for the new installation.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, about one-third of U.S. homes have double or triple-pane windows, which are more energy-efficient than single-pane windows.
• The National Association of Home Builders reports that vinyl windows are chosen for about 68% of new single-family homes, indicating their popularity due to durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency.

For more information on the benefits of vinyl windows and how they can improve your home's energy efficiency, visit the U.S. Department of Energy and the Vinyl Institute.

Stay tuned for our next article, where we'll delve into the installation process for your new vinyl replacement windows.