Skip to main content

Insert Replacement Window

    Scope
    Scope Images
    Image
    Insert replacement vinyl frame window
    Scope

    As summarized within the Success tab, before beginning this work, inspect the interior and exterior of the building, including each window, to identify impacts and potential risks with completing the work. Diagnose water and air infiltration pathways, and choose strategies most appropriate to address each leak.

    Remove the existing window sash. 

    Remove the existing sash-weight and balance system and air seal and insulate the cavity.  Windows must be custom ordered to size; however, they do not require as tight an installation tolerance as the replacement sash option.

    Insulate and seal all voids and cracks between the replacement window assembly and the original window jambs, sill, and head.

    Install the window insert according to manufacturer’s instructions.

    See the Compliance tab for related codes and standards requirements, and criteria to meet national programs such as DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home programENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes, and Indoor airPLUS.

    Description
    Description

    Before beginning this work, the window should be assessed as outlined within the Success tab.

    In this measure, the existing wood window frame should be considered to be the new window rough opening, and treated in a similar manner following current industry recommended practice for waterproofing and draining. The window frame should be cleaned of any dirt and loose paint. The parting beads and interior stops at the head and jambs should be removed from the frame. The weight pocket pulleys should be removed and the openings left by the pulleys in-filled. All corners between head, jambs, sill, and exterior casings should be sealed with caulking. This is recommended for both water management performance as well as for air tightness performance. The rough opening should then be coated on all sides with a liquid applied waterproof membrane. A membrane product is recommended in this application because the area will no longer be accessible for maintenance once the replacement window is installed.

    The existing sash-weight and balance system will be abandoned. Remove the weights and air seal and insulate the cavity. Insulate and seal all voids and cracks between the replacement window assembly and the original window jambs, sill, and head.

    Install the window insert according to manufacturer’s instructions.

    It may be beneficial to build out the casing to cover large gaps between the casing and the new insert.

    Frame preparation.
    Figure 1. Frame preparation for inserting a replacement window. (Source: Building Science Corporation.)

     

    Example of membrane installation in a wood window frame

     

    Example of membrane installation in a wood window frame.
    Figure 2. Examples of membrane installation in a wood window frame. (Source: Building Science Corporation.)

     

    The replacement window is typically installed from the interior: it is normally set on the sill, tilted up into the rough opening, and pushed up against the exterior casing of the window. An interior backer rod and sealant joint should be installed around the interior perimeter of the rough opening. New interior stops are then installed (or the originals could be re-installed if still in a usable condition). The joint between the window and stops is caulked for aesthetics.

    On the exterior the window should be caulked to the casing on the head and jambs. However, the sill should be left to drain to the exterior.

    Example sill detail of insert replacement window.
    Figure 3. Example sill detail of inserting a replacement window. (Source: Building Science Corporation.)

     

    Success
    Ensuring Success
    Wood window options for existing homes

     

    Identifying Risks
    Prior to any retrofit work being conducted, it is important that the following conditions of the building systems be reviewed:

    • Lead and other hazardous materials
    • Site conditions and project staging
    • Identification of water infiltration concerns
    • Identification of deteriorated or damaged materials
    • Identification of user comfort concerns

    Contractor/Homeowner Safety

    US EPA: Lead in Paint, Dust, and Soil: Renovation, Repair Painting

    OSHA: Fall Protection (if window work is to be done at height, from the exterior)

    Lead and Other Hazardous Materials
    Old wood windows and trim are a common location of lead paint in homes. Any work being completed on the window systems should follow all appropriate state and federal laws regarding handling of hazardous materials.

    Site conditions and Project Staging
    The home and site should be reviewed to identify impacts and potential risks with completing the work.

    If the work is to be done for the exterior, scaffolding, lifts, ladders, or other means to access work areas may be needed. Work done at height may require fall protection be used. Proximity to adjacent property or vegetation may limit access or create unsafe work areas.  Exterior staged work may also damage existing landscaping or vegetation.

    If the work is intended to be completed from the interior, consideration should be given to disruption of the occupant and clearances for moving equipment and materials into and out of the space. With any interior work there is always a chance of damage to interior finishes.  Appropriate planning and protection is required.

    Identification of Water Infiltration Concerns
    Windows, above all other enclosure systems, are a common location of water infiltration issues.  It is important to understand the various pathways for potential water infiltration, and identify current water leakage problems. While the details presented in this document are all intended to improve the moisture performance of the window assemblies, it is not intended to address all possibilities, and is not a replacement for inspection and evaluation of the performance of an individual window.  Existing problems should be identified, and the strategy chosen that will be most appropriate to address the concern. Window systems water leaks can be grouped into four general categories (Figure 1 below):

    1. Between the window frame and rough opening
    2. Through the joints in the window frame
    3. Between the window frame and the operable sashes
    4. Through the joints between the glass and the sash frames
    Common window water infiltration pathways.
    Figure 1. Common window water infiltration pathways. (Source: Building Science Corporation)

     

    Prior to any work being done, interior and exterior inspection and monitoring of the conditions of the building should be completed. Water staining, peeling paint or wall paper, and staining on trim or floor assemblies below window systems are indications of water infiltration and/or condensation. Leakage between the sashes and the frame and between the glass and the sash is usually marked by water staining on the interior window frame itself. Condensation on the window frames can also lead to staining of the interior finishes. It is important to monitor the questionable area to prevent a false diagnosis of the water management problem being experienced.

    Leakage between the window and rough opening or through the joints in the window itself are typically contained within the wall assembly and may go unnoticed, or could manifest as staining and peeling paint below the window or damaged flooring.

    Other problems such as water infiltration at the window head may be indications of failed or missing head flashing. However, other problems not associated with the window system may in fact be the cause of the water infiltration. Care must be taken to properly diagnose the infiltration pathway.

    If it is a known recurring problem, then the infiltration problem must be addressed prior to or in conjunction with the window retrofit work.

    If no obvious signs of water infiltration problems exist and the window elements and connection wall components are in good condition, no additional work may be needed. However, as stated above, water infiltration problems are often concealed within wall cavities with no outward signs. This becomes more of a concern if the window retrofit work is being done in conjunction with the addition of cavity fill insulation. With the addition of insulation to the wall cavities, water infiltration problems that previously may have had sufficient drying ability, may now lead to prolonged moisture accumulation. Prolonged moisture accumulation can lead to material deterioration. If there is suspected leakage, then further investigation, including but not limited to thermal scans, moisture content measurements, and cutting of investigation holes below window assemblies to look for signs of moisture problems would be recommended.

    Unless the problem is obvious, it may be prudent to contact someone with experience with diagnosing water infiltration problems prior to proceeding.

    Identification of Deteriorated or Damaged Materials
    If damage to existing elements is noted, the materials should be removed and replaced as part of the retrofit. Certain elements will be more critical to the proper implementation of the chosen strategy.

    Failed window sill with replacement window installed.
    Figure 2. Failed window sill with replacement window installed.

     

    The window sill is arguably the most important element of the window assembly, as water will drain downward by gravity either into the wall (e.g., hole through sill) or directly onto the wall (failure of the sill extension). For all proposed measures in this document excluding complete window replacement, the condition of the sill is critical to the performance of the measure. Cracked or rotting sills need to be replaced prior to any work being done.

    The window frame including the exterior casings is the next most critical element. If the casing is deteriorating, its replacement may be warranted. This should not be confused with the exterior trim, which is often installed as a decorative element on top of the casing. 

    Deteriorating trim may not affect the water management performance of the window however; it may be an indication of other problems and generally creates an aesthetic problem.

    Failed window sill with replacement window installed.
    Figure 3. Failed window sill with replacement window installed.

     

    Depending on the measure being examined, the condition of the window sashes may or may not be a concern to the performance of the measure taken. For window rehabilitation, sash retrofit, or interior storm retrofit, the condition of the sashes is critical to the performance of the window.  For exterior storms, the sashes are more protected from the elements, and the condition is less important from a water management perspective, yet still critical from an energy and condensation resistance perspective. For sash replacement, window insert, or full window replacement, the condition of the sash is irrelevant, as they will be removed. For this reason, windows with severely deteriorated sashes may be better candidates for the latter retrofit measures.

    Identification of User Comfort Concerns
    As part of the initial review, associated comfort concerns relating to the window systems should be evaluated.  Window air leakage is a significant source of occupant comfort problems.  Unlike other common enclosure leakage pathways, window air leakage is commonly very direct, resulting in distinct drafts. 

    Radiation effects from cool glass surfaces are another common comfort problem. This is more difficult to identify, as the tendency is to assume that the discomfort felt when near a window is from air leakage or drafts. This results in some misdiagnosis of the dominant function. A general recommendation is to increase the interior surface temperature of the window system to reduce the radiant heat transfer from the occupant to the window. This is commonly done by adding additional panes of glass (or films) to create an insulating air (or other gas) space between the layers.

    Insert Replacement Window

    For window sashes that are in poor condition and/or the cost of sash rehabilitation, retrofit, or replacement is too high, a common retrofit approach is to install a replacement window in the existing wood window frame. The benefit to this is the speed of installation (very little rehabilitation of the existing window frame is needed), low disruption to the homeowner (the installation does not overly affect interior or exterior trim and finishes), and adjustment ability (while the windows do need to be custom ordered to fit the existing window frames, the tolerances do not need to be as tight or the measurements as precise as the replacement sash option). The result is a completely new window assembly. A down side to this approach is that the amount of vision area of the windows is reduced by the addition of an additional window frame with sashes. For already small window openings, this reduction may be significant and undesirable. For larger windows, the impact will be less noticeable.

    Key points to consider when selecting to insert a replacement window are as follows:

    1. Affects the interior and exterior appearance of the building. Typically not an acceptable approach for historic zoned projects.
    2. The measure is not reversible.
    3. This work should be done in conjunction with a partial rehabilitation (window frame only) as set out in the measure guide Window Rehabilitation.
    4. This work will improve the energy performance of the assembly by reducing air infiltration, as well as thermal conductance through the assembly. The replacement windows can be high performance units (e.g., U < 0.25, such as triple glazed with high performance protruded fiberglass frames), allowing for significant improvements in thermal performance.
    5. This work will reduce the potential for interior condensation problems on the window system.
    6. Existing sash weight and balance system will be abandoned, allowing for an air sealing and insulation retrofit of the weight pockets and voids around the window frame.
    7. Windows must be custom ordered to size; however, they do not require as tight an installation tolerance as the replacement sash option.
    8. Vision area is reduced.
    9. Expensive option.
    Climate
    Climate

    No climate specific information applies.

    Training
    Right and Wrong Images
    Image
    Right – All wood-to-wood joints are sealed with caulk.
    Right – All wood-to-wood joints are sealed with caulk.
    Image
    Right – The sheathing and window sills are sealed with a paint-on flashing.
    Right – The sheathing and window sills are sealed with a paint-on flashing.
    Image
    Right – A metal flashing was installed behind the first row of siding above the windows to guide water over the trim.
    Right – A metal flashing was installed behind the first row of siding above the windows to guide water over the trim.
    Image
    Right – Windows are caulked after installation.
    Right – Windows are caulked after installation.
    Image
    Wrong – The flashing tape was not installed with a roller to completely adhere it to the OSB sheathing surface.
    Wrong – The flashing tape was not installed with a roller to completely adhere it to the OSB sheathing surface.
    Compliance

    Compliance

    The Compliance tab contains both program and code information. Code language is excerpted and summarized below. For exact code language, refer to the applicable code, which may require purchase from the publisher. While we continually update our database, links may have changed since posting. Please contact our webmaster if you find broken links.

     

    2009-2021 IECC and IRC Window U-Factor Requirements Table

    The maximum U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) requirements for fenestration (windows) and skylights in new homes, as listed in the 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2021 IECC and IRC, can be found in this table.

     

    2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)

    Section R101.4.3 (in 2009 and 2012) and Chapter 5 (in 2015, 2018, 2020) Where more than one replacement fenestration unit is to be installed, an area-weighted average of the U-factor, SHGC or both of all replacement fenestration units shall be an alternative that can be used to show compliance.

    Retrofit:  2009, 2012, 2015, 2018,  and 2021 IECC

    Section R101.4.3 (in 2009 and 2012). Additions, alterations, renovations, or repairs shall conform to the provisions of this code, without requiring the unaltered portions of the existing building to comply with this code. (See code for additional requirements and exceptions.)

    Chapter 5 (in 2015, 2018, 2021). The provisions of this chapter shall control the alteration, repair, addition, and change of occupancy of existing buildings and structures.

     

    2009, 2012, 2015, 2018,  and 2021 International Residential Code (IRC)

    Section N1111.1.1 in 2021 IRC, N1109.1.1 2018, and N1108.1.1 in 2015 Building envelope alteration.  Exceptions are included for storm windows installed over existing fenestration and surface-applied window film installed on existing single pane windows. 

    Section N1111.1.1.1 in 2021 IRC, N1109.1.1.1 in 2018 and 2015,  and N1102.1.1 in 2012 and 2009 IRC Replacement fenestration.  When an existing window is replaced, including the sash and glazing, the replacement unit must meet required U-factor and SHGC requirements. Where more than one replacement fenestration unit is to be installed, an area-weighted average of the U-factor, SHGC or both of all replacement fenestration units shall be an alternative that can be used to show compliance.

    AJ102.4 Replacement windows. When an existing window is replaced, including the sash and glazing, the replacement must meet Chapter 11 requirements.

    AJ401.2 Door and window dimensions. Minor reductions in the clear opening dimensions of replacement doors and windows that results from using different materials are allowed.

    Retrofit:  2009, 2012, 2015, 2018,  and 2021 IRC

    Section R102.7.1 Additions, alterations, or repairs. Additions, alterations, renovations, or repairs shall conform to the provisions of this code, without requiring the unaltered portions of the existing building to comply with the requirements of this code, unless otherwise stated. (See code for additional requirements and exceptions.)

    Appendix J regulates the repair, renovation, alteration, and reconstruction of existing buildings and is intended to encourage their continued safe use.

     

    American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) E-2112-07

    Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors and Skylights. Available from ASTM. The standard covers fenestration product installation from pre-installation through post-installation procedures in new and existing construction.

    More

    More Info.

    Access to some references may require purchase from the publisher. While we continually update our database, links may have changed since posting. Please contact our webmaster if you find broken links.

    References and Resources*
    Author(s)
    Baker Peter
    Organization(s)
    Building Science Corporation,
    BSC,
    National Renewable Energy Laboratory,
    NREL
    Publication Date
    Description
    Document providing information and guidance about rehabilitating, retrofitting, and replacing wood window assemblies in residential construction.
    Author(s)
    Brown W C
    Organization(s)
    National Research Council Canada,
    NRC
    Publication Date
    Description
    Research study describing an evaluation of selected windows undertaken by IRC researchers at Ottawa’s Laurier House (now being used as a museum) to determine their effectiveness in controlling condensation.
    Author(s)
    Wilson
    Organization(s)
    National Research Council Canada
    Publication Date
    Description
    Document about condensation between the panes, on the inside surface of the outer glass of double pane windows.
    *For non-dated media, such as websites, the date listed is the date accessed.
    Contributors to this Guide

    The following authors and organizations contributed to the content in this Guide.

    Building Science Corporation, lead for the Building Science Consortium (BSC), a DOE Building America Research Team

    Sales
    Building Science Measures
    Building Science-to-Sales Translator

    High-R Window = High-Efficiency Window

    Image(s)
    Technical Description

    There are two levels of window efficiency relative to standard windows: high-efficiency (e.g., ENERGY STAR Certified windows), which perform at least 15% better than standard windows, and ultra-efficient (e.g., most triple-glazed windows) which perform at least 50% better. These windows use a combination of features to reduce heat loss or gain including two or three glass panes separated by insulating spacers, nontoxic gas (e.g., argon or krypton) in the spaces between the glass panes for better thermal resistance, a nearly invisible low-emissivity coating on the glass that keeps heat in during the winter and out in the summer. They also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight (e.g., fading curtains and furniture), and insulate frames.

    High-Efficiency Window
    Sales Message

    High-efficiency windows effectively block unwanted heat gain in summer while retaining your home’s heat in winter. What this means to you is less wasted energy along with enhanced comfort and noise reduction. Wouldn’t you agree high-efficiency windows should be included in every new home?

    Last Updated

    Mobile Field Kit

    The Building America Field Kit allows you to save items to your profile for review or use on-site.

    Sign Up  or  Log In

    Did you find this information helpful?

    If you have questions and/or would like a reply to this feedback, please include your e-mail address in the message.
    This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.