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How to Remove Double Paned Windows From a House

Double-pane windows are considerably more expensive than single-pane windows, but the additional expense provides an increase in energy efficiency and a reduction of noise pollution from outside the home. The process of removing a double-pane window is substantially similar to removing a single-pane window, but perhaps the most significant difference is that double-pane windows are heavier. Enlist the help of an assistant when removing a double-pane window if possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Small pry bar
  • Utility knife
  • Reciprocating saw
  • Hammer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pry the interior trim away from the window frame with a small pry bar to expose several nails on both sides of the window. Slice through any paint between the wall and the trim with a utility knife if necessary. Pry the trim away from the wall gradually if you intend to reuse it.

    • 2

      Pry the exterior trim away from the window frame with a small pry bar if applicable. Examine the exterior edges of the window. Some double-pane window designs have a lip around the edges that is secured to the home with nails. Remove any nails with a pry bar.

    • 3

      Cut through the nails with a reciprocating saw to release the window from the wall studs.

    • 4

      Inspect the narrow slots between the house and the edges of the window for window shims. Window shims are thin spacers, typically made of wood or plastic, designed to level a window within its frame if necessary. Remove any shims by tapping them out of the wall with a hammer and the pry bar.

    • 5

      Pry the window out of the wall gradually with the pry bar and lift the window out of the wall with the help of an assistant.