9 Tips for Your DIY Home Window Replacement Project

When deciding whether to self-install or hire a pro to replace windows like these ones from Marvin Windows, it is important to consider all the aspects that go into a home window replacement project.

Reasons to Update Your Windows

There are a lot of good reasons to update your home’s windows: whether you’re looking to improve your home’s safety, make your home more energy efficient, or just to want a fresh look, home window replacement can have a major impact. Not to mention the fact that window replacement is one of the highest-rated home improvement projects in terms of return on investment.

However, once you’ve decided to do it, how do you decide whether to take it on yourself or hire a contractor?

DIY Points to Consider

According to this article and this forum on home window replacement, here are some points to consider when deciding whether to take on the task yourself or hire a pro:

1. Window replacement skills: Have you ever tackled window replacement before? What is your level of comfortability? Do you understand the pieces and types of window options involved and feel confident in your ability to complete the process?
2. Scope of the project: Is it a single window on the main floor or are you hoping to have multiple windows on multiple floors replaced? Will you have to make any additional cuts to the drywall or structure of the house in order to accommodate a larger design or to meet building codes? Not sure about building codes? Check out #7. If you will have to make additional cuts you may have to pull a permit for the job. Check out #8 for more info on permits.
3. Timing: Along with the scope of the project, be sure to consider time constraints. Do you have enough time to devote to doing this project yourself? Will you be able to do this replacement in an afternoon or a weekend?
4. Tools: Do you have the tools you need to get the job done? Check out this list from the Family Handyman to see if your current tool chest is up to the job.
5. Materials costs: If you are planning to purchase materials yourself, keep in mind that this might not be an area where you save money. Although self-installation will likely be less expensive from a labor cost perspective, remember that contractors and professionals have access to price points and wholesale prices that are generally not available to the public.
6. Warranties: Another thing to research when purchasing and installing windows yourself is whether the window warranty will stand if the product isn’t installed by a professional. Some window companies won’t honor warranties on windows that you install yourself. If you decide to DIY, make sure to ask your retailer for all the details on your window warranty and check out this article from Remodeling.com about various kinds of window warranties and what they will cover.
7. Building codes: Building codes may have changed since the windows you are hoping to replace were originally installed. Make sure to do some research into current building codes before getting started. It’s possible that when replacing a window, you will have to comply with codes that the windows be larger or have additional features. Check out this website for info on who to contact for information on building codes in your area.
8. Pulling permits & lead risk: Some cities will require you to pull permits to work on a project in your home, especially if you live in a home built before 1978, which may involve displacing old lead-based paint during the construction process. If you do work on your home without the appropriate permits, you open yourself up to consequences such as fines, having to have the work redone, or affecting the ‘sell-ability‘ of your home in the long run. Check out this article from Angie’s List about why pulling permits is important.
9. Rental property versus homestead: Doing permit research is especially important if you are planning to do the work on a rental property. If you do not have a builder’s or contractor’s license, it’s possible you won’t be able to pull a permit for work done on a property you aren’t residing in. Check out this forum on permits for work performed on a rental property here.

Whether you decide to DIY or hire a contractor for your home window replacement, the Alexander Lumber team is here to help. Our knowledgable staff has the expertise to assist you in both picking the right windows and advising you on what permits and codes you might need to complete the project. Stop by any of our more than 20 locations or contact us to learn more!