How To Fit uPVC Sash Windows?
Tools & Equipment
You will require the following tools and equipment before beginning:
- Tape measure
- Level
- Silicone gun with silicone to match the external frame finish
- Foam gun
- Fixing screws
- Screwdriver (cordless if possible)
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Hand saw or electric saw
- PPE equipment such as safety glasses
Step 1- Measuring Up
Firstly, you will need to measure the opening in the brickwork to ensure the windows you have bought will fit. There are mainly two different ways in which the windows will be originally installed; brick to brick or check reveal. Both methods are explained in more detail below.
Brick to Brick
You will see about 20-40mm of visible brick showing on the outside.
Check Reveal
The full width of the brick is visible on the outside.
How to measure?
Measure between the external brickwork opening and add 40mm to the width and 20mm* to the height with equal 20mm* sitting behind the brick. (*Providing there is sufficient clearance to do so.)
Step 2- Window Removal
Please read the following steps carefully before attempting to remove any existing windows.
2.1
Cut the sash cords to the bottom sash, prise off internal staff bead – this enables you to remove the bottom sash.
2.2
Cut the sash cords to the top sash, prise off the centre parting bead and the top sash can then be removed.
2.3
Remove the old sash weight
2.4
Cut the old box near to where you’ve removed the weights, taking care not to cut or damage any cables that may go through the window.
2.5
Once you’ve cut through the box, prise out sides trying not to cause damage to bricks, then remove head rail and cill.
Step 3- Installation
3.1 Fit the frame into the opening
The frame should be placed into the opening and bedded on a suitable compound, it should be packed under the cill ensuring that it is level, and not bowed. The frame should then be wedged temporarily to hold it in position. Adjust the wedging until the frame is standing vertically, and the jambs are plumb and true from side to side.
3.2 Check the diagonal measurements of the frame.
3.3 The Frame
Wedge the frame temporarily in the opening ensuring jambs are plum and square.
3.4 The Cill
The cill must be level along the opening width, and embedded on a suitable compound.
Step 4- Fixing the Frame
The outer frame can be fixed through three positions. Fixing should be between 150mm and 250mm from the corners with maximum centres of 600mm.
Before final tightening, the frame should be packed at screw positions with shims. To ensure optimum weather performance and correct operation of the sashes, the outer frame must not be bowed. Ensure the gap between the sashes and outer frame is uniform. Check the diagonal measurements of the frame.
Foam fixing should only be used as a gap filler and not an alternative to mechanical fixings. After applying check that the outer frame has not distorted or bowed. Packing pieces can be placed between the frame and the sashes, or a brace put across the frame to prevent bowing.
After installation debris or contaminants should be removed and any drainage paths cleared. Protective tapes should be removed as soon as practical, as ageing of tapes can cause difficulties in removal.
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