home replacement window

With the replacement window on site, go outside and cut through the caulk bead between the old brick mold and the siding. Then, use a cat's paw to pull the casing nails along the outer edge of the old brick molding.

Because newer window casings with their vinyl sash guides can spread apart at the center -- and because spreading sides can allow the windows to fall out -- manufacturers now recommend shimming the casings on each side of the opening. This can be tricky, because if you over-shim, you'll interfere with the operation of the window. Nailing the shims in place through the sashes can also pose problems.

To keep the windows from spreading during shipment, each window has a nylon ribbon that holds the casings together. This band can serve as a guide when shimming the casings. Just slide tapered shims between the casing and the framed opening, one pair on each side. When the shims contact both surfaces, but just before they loosen the nylon ribbon, you'll have the right amount of shim. Cut the shims to size and slide them back in place with a dab of construction adhesive on each side.