How to Replace Vinyl Windows in Brick Veneer

Replacing vinyl windows in a home that has brick veneer siding is not as complicated as professional window installers would like you to believe. The truth of the matter is that installing vinyl windows is basically the same process no matter what the outer shell is made out of. Wood or metal studs are used for all of the framing and structural work, so a homeowner should not be discouraged when approaching the task of installing vinyl windows in a brick veneer home or building. Before beginning this project be sure to have the following materials and tools on hand so that the job can be completed within a couple of hours, rather than having an opening in the side of your house for days at a time.

Step 1: Remove the Old Window

Remove the existing window by taking the trim off from the inside of the window first. This will allow the edges of the window casing open to access, showing you how the window is attached. The easiest way to remove the securing points on the window is to cut them with a
basic reciprocating saw, taking care to not cut the inner or outer siding.

Step 2: Remove all Nails and Screws

Before trying to install the new window, be sure that the framing that will be anchoring the window is free from all nails, screws, and old insulation and caulking.

Step 3: Set the New Window

Place the new window into the opening in the wall. Measure the gap, if any, that exists around the outer edges and work the window back and forth and up and down until the new vinyl window is exactly in the middle of the hole. After the gap is even on all edges, place the level
onto the frame and adjust, if necessary, until the entire window is level and plumb. Use the wood shims to adjust the window, and to hold it in place.

Step 4: Secure the Window in Place

After the window is set, use the wood screws and secure the window into place. Before tightening all the way, check the window with the level one last time to ensure that it has not moved during the process of screwing it down.

Step 5: Insulate the Gaps

Once the windows are set and anchored to the framing, use the spray foam insulation can and fill all the gaps around the framing and the edge of the window. Allow the foam to dry completely before trimming the excess amounts off.

Step 6: Install the Trim

Install all of the trim pieces that were taken off when removing the old window. Install by using the trim nails that you have available, taking care to make it level with the outer edges of the window.

Step 7: Finish

Caulk all of the outer gaps with window caulking to make a weather-tight seal.

Replacing vinyl windows on a house that has brick veneer siding is no different than installing it on any other type of house, and should not intimidate you, as the homeowner, from completing the project yourself.