Removing a window in a home can be easy, especially if your house has vinyl siding. New windows often get installed during vinyl siding installation because the two are designed to work together seamlessly. You may have a home where you want to remove a window to improve energy efficiency. You can do this as part of a DIY project, or included in a home improvement plan. No matter the reason, removing a window and replacing it with vinyl siding is a good skill to have.
Sometimes, you want to remove an existing window permanently to make a design change. This may be because your current window is to low or you are updating an old house. When removing different types of windows, the process is similar for most window styles, from double-hung windows to casement windows. For DIYers, it’s important to follow the step-by-step process to make sure the remodel is done properly.
In this article, I’ll discuss the steps of removing an old window — including the existing frame and window glass — and replacing it with vinyl siding.
For any do-it-yourself project, safety is a priority, so always use proper safety gear when working with power tools and glass. With these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to handle your window removal project, whether you’re a seasoned handyman or tackling your first DIY home improvement project.
Removing The Old Window
If you are replacing wood windows, single-pane aluminum windows, vinyl replacement windows, or new construction windows, the removal process may differ slightly. Following the typical removal process professionals use will help you get the job done quickly.
Single-Pane Counter-Balanced Wooden Window
These are the windows common to homes built a century ago. They are often single-hung, meaning only the lower sash opens, but some are double-hung. To aid in the opening of the sash, cast iron weights are attached to the outside full frame of the window, which counterbalances the weight of the sash.
When removing this type of window, care must be taken to prevent the weight from falling and causing damage or injury. In most situations, single-pain window installation has these windows nailed through the frame and into the wall studs.
To remove the window, the pros will simply remove any trim such as casing, which reveals the nail between the window frame and the rough opening. Then, using a metal blade on a reciprocating saw or hacksaw, the nails are cut, as opposed to pulling them out. This reduces the forces imparted on the window and often prevents the glass from shattering.
Aluminum Double-Pane and Storm Window
Aluminum windows were very popular in the latter half of the 20th century because they solved many of the issues caused by wooden windows.
However, if you have a wooden window that has become stuck over time because of a buildup of paint or caulk between the window sash and frame, you’ve experienced the frustration of unsticking a wooden window.
One of the advancements of aluminum windows was the way the window was installed.
In most cases, aluminum windows being replaced are from this period and incorporate a nail fin into the design of the frame. This fin had perforated holes and was used to mount the window into the rough opening, as opposed to nailing directly through the window frame.
Unfortunately, this design makes it harder to remove the window, because the fin is meant to be covered by the exterior trim and facade. To remove this type of window, the pros use a tool capable of cutting metal, such as a reciprocating saw or hacksaw. This time, instead of cutting the nails only, the actual window frame is cut.
Experts cut all four sides of the frame into two pieces, which usually allows the piece to be removed with a pry bar.
If your project involves replacing aluminum windows with vinyl double-pane windows, researching how to replace aluminum with vinyl windows is recommended. Follow a detailed guide for instructions and tips for a successful installation.
Vinyl (Replacement)
In most cases, vinyl windows are removed in the same way as a traditional counter-weighted window. A typical replacement vinyl window will have four pre-drilled holes in the frame, and be installed using screws appropriate for the window size.
To remove a replacement vinyl window, the pros will often carefully remove any casing or trim from the interior and cut the screws in half. In some instances, the screws can simply be backed out using a cordless drill. However, if they cannot be, the second method is used.
Read also: Guide to Installing Replacement Windows
Vinyl (New)
New construction vinyl windows are usually less expensive than replacement windows and installation services are quick. New construction vinyl windows incorporate a nail fin, much like the older aluminum windows.
Removing this type of window is usually done the same way, but vinyl is more fragile than aluminum. This means that the nail fin will sometimes break off, making it easier to remove the window and window sill.
Replacing the Window With Vinyl Siding
Enclosing the hole left by the window removal will involve a few materials to do the job correctly. The window opening built into the wall during the original construction will be replaced, as though there was never a window there.
This project will require lumber the same thickness as the wall, which is usually a 2” x 4” stud. If the home has 2” x 6” walls, a 2” x 6” stud will be used. Usually, the sheathing used will be 7/16” thick oriented strand board (OSB), or 15/32” plywood. Replacing house wrap and tape is also strongly recommended if your home uses it.
After the window has been removed, the rough opening should be inspected and repaired if necessary. J-channel, brick molding, and any other trim around the window is also removed at this stage.
Any flashing that doesn’t come out with the window should be removed as well. The next step is to cover the hole using the appropriate sheathing. Usually, OSB can be substituted for plywood of the same size and vice versa. However, at this stage, there is nothing to attach the sheathing to, so a stop is required. A stop, in this case, refers to the 2” x 4” studs mentioned earlier.
To begin, measure and cut four 2” x 4” pieces to fit inside the opening, and install them flush to the outside edge using #12 nails, or screws. Most homes will have stud spacing of 16” to 24”. If the opening is wider than the stud spacing, a stud should be added to the opening to support the sheathing.
Next, cut a section of sheathing ⅛” smaller than the original opening in both directions. Note that the sheathing will completely cover the new spot, but will not require excessive force to fit.
This will ease the installation without affecting the connection. The sheathing is now installed by driving #8 nails or screws through the sheathing and into the new 2’ x 4” stop about every 8” to 10”. At this point, the house wrap and sealing tape can be replaced, if appropriate to the house.
House wrap in standard form is 150’ long and 9’ wide. When purchasing materials, a smart move is to buy a house wrap repair kit instead. These kits usually have enough wrap and tape for a small repair project, such as replacing a front door, so they often work well for windows.
Experts will install the house wrap by overlapping the existing wrap by at least 6”, and taping the joint securely.
The final step is to replace the siding. Since the original siding was trimmed around the window, those trimmed sections will need to be replaced. Starting at the first trimmed course, remove the siding by placing a claw hammer or pry bar behind the locking tab and prying outward.
Once the course is removed, measure it for length and cut a new piece exactly the same size. Vinyl siding is installed from the bottom up, much like a shingle. The next step is to lock the new piece by snapping it onto the locking tab of the course below it. Then, using gentle pressure, the new piece is lifted and nailed in place using a galvanized roofing tack, or other weather-resistant fastener.
Read also: Exterior Window Trim Ideas for You.
These must not be driven up tightly, however, as this will cause the piece to expand and buckle when exposed to intense sunlight. Most manufacturers require about ⅛” gap between the head of the fastener and the siding. If you need to overlap two pieces horizontally, make sure to overlap the pieces by 6” to 8”. This will allow the siding to shed water more easily and makes for a more pleasant appearance.
The same procedure is then used to install each subsequent course until the project is completed.
When working with vinyl siding, remember there is usually a distinct left and right side. Professionals take care to cut from the same end every time, which helps reduce mistakes and material waste.
Replacing Windows Is Simple
Replacing a window with vinyl siding doesn’t have to be complicated. This article guides you through the process step-by-step, from removing the old window to installing the new siding. When replacing various types of windows — aluminum double pane, wooden windows, vinyl windows — you can handle each with confidence. Follow the steps and use the proper tools to achieve a professional result.
With the right materials and careful attention to detail, you can successfully replace a window with vinyl siding. This will improve your home’s energy efficiency and curb appeal. Whether you’re updating an old house or a modern one, knowledge is key to completing your project safely and effectively.
If you lack the confidence for window removal, I recommend hiring a professional. They have the tools and experience to make sure the job is done safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is it to remove a window?
Removing a window can be challenging and typically takes several hours. The process involves multiple steps: you’ll need to take out the window stops, sashes, trim, and casings, followed by the sill and frame.
What are the most common types of windows?
The most common types of replacement windows are double-hung and slider windows. Double-hung windows feature two sashes that move up and down, while slider windows have sections that slide horizontally.
Should I hire a professional to remove my window?
Hiring a professional for window removal is usually a good idea. They have the tools and experience to make sure the job is done safely.
You can remove your old windows if you feel confident in your DIY skills and have the proper tools.
