Replacement Window Installation in a Concrete Structure

Measurement

• Installing replacement windows in concrete is not too terribly different from installing windows in a wood frame home. First and foremost, you have to ensure that your windows will fit as precisely as possible in your existing opening. Many window sizes are standardized and you may have no difficulty in locating a replacement window. If your windows are a non-standard size, however, you may run into more difficulty in trying to find a window that fits. In such instances, consider getting quotes from a qualified contractor and installer that works for a well-known window replacement company. You may find that the cost of having someone else replace the window is worth it since you will have to custom order the windows anyway.

Removal

• Removing the old windows from your concrete building structure will tell you quite a bit about installing your new windows. You will get to see much of the installation process in reverse and this will give you a good feel for what you need to do when you put your windows in. Carefully remove the existing window by first removing the existing screws that hold the frame in place. This may be the only removal you need to do if you get windows that closely match the window opening size. Examine the existing frame once you have removed the window. Check for wood rot or any other type of weathering within the window opening. Carefully remove and replace as necessary.

Preparation

• Preparation of the existing opening may also be necessary when replacing windows in your concrete building structure. Check for cracks or any other signs of stress fracture that may need to be sealed before installing the windows. Any gaps can be filled with a polyurethane foam and epoxy sealant that will help to water and weatherproof your window frame opening. If you use an expanding foam, be careful to not allow the foam to expand into areas where the window will need to go. Remove any excess foam with a putty knife before moving forward, otherwise you may not be able to fit the window into the existing frame. You can also use grout over the existing gaps on the outside to help ensure that the home retains its original look. Determine where you will be fastening the window to the opening. You will need to pre-drill holes for your concrete expansion bolts if the existing holes have been worn in the removal process.

Installation

• Insert and attach the windows in the reverse order that you removed the old windows from the opening. If you have been careful to prepare each step along the way, this should be the easy part of the process. Add any shims to the existing frame as necessary. Attach the windows to the frame using your concrete expansion bolts to secure the windows in place. Use wood screws to attach to any existing shims also. Reinstall the protective frame along the outside of the window. Reseal any remaining gaps with grout and allow it to dry. Caulk around the window frame with a silicone sealant to ensure that the window opening has been waterproofed.