Kitchen Window Makeover

Materials and tools:

casement or picture window (2)
1x10 lumber (6' length)
silicone caulk
weather stripping (1 roll)
low-expansion foam
air compressor and hoses
caulking gun
drill
finish nailer
painting supplies
pry bar
safety glasses
utility knife

Steps:

1. Measure your space and purchase a replacement window the same size as the existing window.

2. First remove all screens and the upper and lower sash of the windows.

3. Cut the caulk along the seams using a utility knife.

5. Now that everything has been removed (figure B), test fit the new window.

6. Remove the window, then use a caulk gun to apply silicone sealant to the bottom corners of the rough opening. Starting on the lower sides, apply aluminum weather proofing tape to cover the bottom of the sill. The butyl adhesive backing prevents any water from penetrating the sill. Next, apply silicone sealant to the edge of the window ledge — also called "the stoop" — and the corners at the ends of the sill.

7. Now, it's time to set the window in place. Set the bottom in first and then tip the frame upright and push it against the stops.

8. Check to make sure that the window frame (figure C) is square. Then install shims at the top, bottom and middle of the sides of the frame. Check that the gap between the sash and the frame is uniform from top to bottom. With the frame square and locked in position, run screws through the pre-drilled holes in the sides, through the shims, and into the jamb. Then, use a utility knife to score the shims and break off the excess.

9. Fill the small gap between the edge of the frame and the window opening with low-expansion foam, which is made expressly for this purpose.

10. Cut and replace the casing on the inside, prime and paint to match. Outside, form a watertight seal between the replacement window frame and the original opening by pressing foam backing rod into place. Next, fill the remaining space with silicone caulk.

11. Install the shelf using a piece of 1x10x6 and shelf brackets (figure D).

12. Turn off power to the kitchen, remove old light and install new one.