How to Install a Horizontal Jeld-Wen Vinyl Window

Preparation

• 1

  Remove your Jeld-Wen vinyl window from its packaging. Take all cushioning materials such as Styrofoam and bubble wrap off the window and place it away from the work space.

• 2

  Find the exact dimensions of your horizontal vinyl window unit in the instruction manual or determine it by measuring the window yourself.

• 3

  Measure the height, width and diagonal area of the opening in which you intend to install the window. Ensure that these dimensions match those of your window.

• 4

  Use your level to ensure the bottom and sides of the window opening are flat. Use a sander to flatten the wood if necessary.

• 5

  Attach a nail to the top of the frame. Tie the string of your plumb to this nail and let the plumb hang into the window opening. You can install a Jeld-Wen vinyl window in any space with a vertical deviation of up to one-eighth of an inch.

• 6

  Spread your Jeld-Wen drain mat across the bottom of the window area. Peel paper off the back of the mat to reveal the adhesive and place the adhesive face down. Use your staple gun to attach the drain mat to the wood around the window. Some of the drain mat should extend up the sides of the frame -- follow installation instructions in your manual for exact measurements.

• 7

  Apply weatherproof caulk at the edges of the drain mat, where it meets the sides of the window frame area.

• 8

  Skip Steps 6 through 8 if installing a window in an existing vinyl framing unit. If you're installing a window with its own frame, such as an integral nailing fin window, follow these instructions.

Installation

• 9

  Place your Jeld-Wen vinyl window into the opening you prepared in Section 1 if installing a window with its own frame.

• 10

  Spread sealant around the inside of the existing frame and install your window into this area, if installing a window in an existing frame.

• 11

  Follow installation manual instructions for attaching a window to the walls of your home. When installing a window with a nailing fin, for instance, you must drive nails at even intervals into the fin to attach it to your walls.

• 12

  Use your drill to drive screws through your window and in the frame around it if installing a window into an existing frame. Follow instructional manual instructions for exact placement instructions.

• 13

  Install any wood shims required by the manufacturer. For instance, a Jeld-Wen window with nailing fin requires shims on either side of the window above the interlock, at distance of no more than 8 inches apart. Use weatherproof sealant to seal the shims in place.

• 14

  Apply spray sealant around the edge of the nailing fin.

• 15

  Caulk any exposed areas to prevent moisture penetration.