Most often, the question of how to frame a window is raised during the construction of the building. But if you decide to make a major repair or put a new window of a different size, the framing of the window can not be avoided. One way or another, a competently installed frame will protect the room from the penetration of cold and water.
If you have a wall made of brick or concrete, you can not do without the help of a specialist to cut a new hole. When you plan the project, you need to make sure that you create a structure that provides a flat surface for the drywall. Parts made of this material should fit together smoothly without any problems.
Knowing how to frame a window requires care and patience. Our article will tell you how to properly and easily do it yourself. If you doubt your abilities, it is better to contact a specialist.
Window frame: construction, material, and composition
The window frame consists of jambs and window sill, which all together create space for the window sash. In other words, the entire structure makes up the outer perimeter of the window. Frames can be made of a combination of different materials, most commonly made of wood, aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass.
After framing the window, carefully choose the insulating glass unit. Its materials and quality will directly affect the creation of a beautiful exterior of your home. In addition, your comfort depends on it. Competently installed high-quality windows will not let moisture and cold when closed. In addition, they will serve their owners for decades.
How to frame a window: step by step instruction
Before you begin framing the window frame, it is necessary to prepare all materials, tools, and fittings. To perform the repair work, you will need:
- framing and combination square;
- a saber saw and a hand saw;
- level, tape measure, hammer, 10d and 16d nails;
- sheet of plywood;
- drill bit and screwdriver;
- stapler and metal staples;
- spacers;
- flat-mount.
Preparing the work area and inspection of the studs
Before you begin the process of framing the window, it is necessary to lay a rag on the floor and close the door tightly to prevent dust from getting inside. It is also advisable to put a fan on the adjacent window and look at it from the street. If all is well, move on to the next step, the inspection of the studs. You will need to use the current wall stud as the main – this is at one end.
On the other side, 2×2 or 2×4 slats connect to the post. This provides a surface to repair the drywall. This option is the easiest, because you don’t have to cut through the center of the post and use pieces of drywall to drive nails through.
Fixing the studs
Take one new stud, the same size as the installed ones. Make notches on it. Consider installing the jack stud on top, as the sill will remain between it and the dried stud. then insert the clips every 12 inches. The wedge and studs between the top and bottom plates will create a stud-to-pin combination.
If there is a desire to frame the cavity, nail the stud combination to the back of the drywall in the middle and secure them with 2-inch screws and 10-inch nails. To prevent the studs from shifting position, add ¼ inch each.
Marking
Marks should be made on the bottom of the plate that will indicate the location for the studs. This distance will indicate the space between the jack studs. Select the proper level and place the mark on the studs themselves so that the bottom of the harvester is visible. Then place a mark about ⅛ of this distance higher and notch the ⅛ of the bottom of this measurement.
Marking the middle stud for the cutout
The next step is to make a mark on the center stud, which will later be cut. To do this, consider the required size of the window opening. Add 3 inches to the value if double sheets will be used, and 1.5 inches if single sheets. After marking, make notches on each post.
Estimating the lines
Take a circular saw and set it to its maximum depth. To check how it works, cut off an unwanted piece. If that’s okay, then adjust the saw in a perpendicular position on the plate. Move along the lines in a forward motion of the saw. Don’t forget to use protective gear at this stage, especially for your eyes and ears!
Making the header
To make the header, you will need to cut two 2×6 or 2×8 pieces. They should match the width of the cavity, but allow for an extra three inches. Prepare plywood spacers at once as well, their maximum thickness should not exceed ½ inch. Then find the direction where the 2xs curve upward in the center.
To do this, place the pieces one on top of the other and check to see if the crowns are facing the same direction. Leave the spacer 8-10 inches apart, place the other 2 on top, secure all the pieces with 3 inch triple screws. When the crown is pointing up, place the header on the spacer studs. You can then install the collector with nails or screws.
Creating the sill
This step begins with cutting the necessary piece to length. If using two pieces, you should fasten one piece over the caliper stud, on which the second piece is covered. Inspect the resulting pieces to make sure they are square. If the parameters of the window are ½ inch, the hole size should be ¼ inch from the square. For a final check, place the window in the cavity and carefully inspect the square. If everything is correct, you should make mounting holes on each edge with a drill.
Creating cutouts
If you need to put in a new window frame, you will need to prepare a hole in the wall that will match the opening. After that, take a saber saw and pierce the top and bottom studs. Before doing this, do not forget to work with the width of the window sill and the reaper. You will then need to cut the studs to the middle and pull them out. It will also be necessary to clear the open areas for further installation of the window frame.
Finishing Procedures
Insert the reaper into the cavity and align it with the studs on both sides. Then install the window sill and all parts of the frame with screws. After that, apply a large amount of latex sealant to the loose spaces and gaps. Place the new window into the frame and make sure it fits completely. The final step is to screw in the glass pane using a drill with a special nozzle.
Conclusion
Knowing how to frame a window yourself will help you save money. Proper framing will help you to enjoy coziness and comfort in your home for a long time. If in doubt of your own strength and capabilities, it is better of course to call a professional craftsman. We hope that our guide will still help you to frame the window with your own hands. Remember: in this case, the main thing – patience, attentiveness and accuracy!
