How To Install A Window In 12 Minutes! - Beginners Guide

In this video, I'm going to show you how to install a window! This window installation video consists of how to properly flash the window in a new construction building. New construction windows have a nailing flange, so it will be different method of installation compared to a replacement window for a remodel. This is a beginners guide that is in a step-by-step format, so you can easily follow along and do it yourself, if you are into DIY!
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Tools And Supplies Used In This Video👇
Window Flashing Tape amzn.to/3Qv4vDz
Utility Knife amzn.to/3DOp6LM
Window And Door Caulk amzn.to/3DOp6LM
Level amzn.to/3qqZT6M
Shims amzn.to/45jdwUr
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Disclaimer: This video is all based on my personal opinion and is for entertainment purposes ONLY. I am not a financial advisor, CPA, attorney, tax advisor, electrician, plumber, housing contractor, designer, or any type of profession to give advice. I am just a consumer sharing my experiences and research. If you do need knowledge for those types of things, I will advise you to seek help for those professionals.

[@jonrk123]

Happy to see Stiffler found his true passion. Keep up the good work!

[@truemanley2953]

Hey Josh! I just wanted to say - I am incredibly grateful for your content. I have spent the last year building my family’s forever home, and your content has taught me everything from how to wire up panels, to installing doors, to running black iron gas lines. As a mother of six and woman- I have found it unbelievably difficult to get any local tradesmen to take me seriously let alone share knowledge on these subjects. I truly feel like I am able to do things because of your videos that I would never be able to do because I don’t fit in the conventional builder type. Thank you for your videos and always being a friendly face!

[@joemata4874]

Gorgeous

[@jackparker2669]

What a tank

[@LindaMonroe-zf4os]

I wish you stayed next to me 😢 I also do a little of my own projects on my 60 year old house 🏠 because it's so expensive to hire help ! And they love over charging a woman 🤐

[@jamesscheidt4278]

Nice job. One thing I would change is to not rely on caulk if you can have a mechanical joint. I would lap the tape in the bottom corners rather than rely on caulk.

[@Hoon.In_The_Air]

Hi Josh, Thanks a bunch for all the house-building tips you've shared! Your videos are really great - your explanations are clear, the demos are easy to follow, and you break down the steps in a way that even beginners like me can get it. I'm getting ready to build my own tiny house, and I've got to say, your videos are seriously boosting my confidence. A huge thank you!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I built this channel for people just like you. Someone who wants to learn a little bit about construction and DIY. You are very welcome! Thank you for being a part of this community. Take care!

[@anthonyrowland9072]

This video saved me $11,000.

[@scottdezieck7056]

Another great video from you! Clear and simple

[@michaelbrooks4833]

I am so grateful that I ran across one of your video a little over a year ago. Love all your video. My forever home is coming along. Thanks for the videos!!!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I am grateful for you as well! I built this KZbin channel for people like us. DIYers that want to get ahead by building their own homes. Congrats on your forever home. That is awesome! I appreciate you watching!

[@sunny3560-e6y]

Extremely helpful! I plan to replace my old windows DIY as well

[@Bustahbrown]

Awesome, very throughly explained yet simply process.

[@robavis4906]

Thank u for your videos i use them alot . You explain things really good.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you, Rob! I really enjoy making these videos for my audience. I love knowing I can help people using video. Take care, and good luck on your projects!

[@davidharrison3074]

Ive done more windows in remodeling but when ever I could, I love using the flashing tape. The important part on a remodel was making sure the wall thickness and whether it is drywall or plaster. I usually made my own extension jams on certain installs. I love the single double hung window especially for a first floor situation. Great install step by step Josh. 🔨🔨👍🏻

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

That makes sense when you were doing a remodel. It’s interesting you mention jam extension because my video coming out next week he’s about that on the door. I feel like single hung window as is all I needed for this garage. Thanks for watching David!

[@davidharrison3074]

@@TheExcellentLaborer can't wait for the next video for sure. 🔨👍🏻

[@noahfigueroa3534]

As always, excellent content! Thanks for sharing.

[@RyanANewman]

This is just the video I was looking for for a window replacement. Thanks!

[@marlonsummers8184]

Great content. I learn so much from your videos

[@margerykirner5604]

Great easy to follow. Thanks much!

[@eman31683]

I haven't seen flashing tape used in other videos. I love his videos and have definitely learned a lot. I always look forward to his videos! Learning a lot before buying and doing things myself!

[@micha-42]

In my experience, flashing tape is actually not easy to find in the US. My local shops had no clue what it was.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Flashing tape is the most effective way to waterproof a window. When you combine that with caulking, it is a great set up for the long-term window install. Thanks for watching my videos. Good luck with your project!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Online and some big box stores have it. I hope that helps!

[@user-mz6nq6gf8e]

Awesome video mate!

[@luistello1971]

Brother, you are amazing! Keep going!

[@T_Jonesy]

Really informative. Thank you.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I appreciate that. Thank you for watching!

[@institches2750]

Very concise, thank you. I appreciate you explaining the different types and dimensions of windows. That was what confused me the first time I did this. One note: I usually see it recommended not to fully silicone the bottom flange, with the justification that it will let any water that DOES manage to get back there escape. I'll be looking forward to seeing how you finish the siding around the window.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You’re welcome! Placing the caulking at the bottom, may do just that, but I would like to ensure there is no draft through the bottom of the window. Thanks for the comment!

[@institches2750]

That's fair, but you've still got the insulation/foam to stop drafts!

[@obrapro]

Thanks for another great how 2!

[@jonathan3982]

Looks great Great video 👍

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks! 👍

[@eyyo2561]

Thank you for instructional video…hi from Prince George, BC

[@ABK6969]

Very useful thank you

[@cassielmeng780]

thanks for your sharing!!!!!!

[@mrs.cornbread]

Thank you for taking the time to walk through this. We are building a new house and this will help us cut some costs. I do have a question - you didn’t put flashing along the bottom of the window on the outside. Is that okay to miss or do you recommend to put along the bottom as well?

[@ckuiper7332]

Awesome - as all-ways! Feature wise, I enjoy a double hung window with a full screen to drop down and raise up for better air circulation. For a garage single hung is fine. Also makes easier to completely remove & clean tracks every few years. I'll only buy those with pure virgin vinyl so frame doesn't resemble a clorox bottle in 6 months.. and finally, as required is a constant force balance system (it resembles a retractable tape measure) so there is no lubrication maintenance and cleaningbin those pesky spiral balance rodes, nor any strings to break over time. Peace out.😎

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks a lot! Yes double hung do have more features and like you said, for a garage I am fine with single hung. That is interesting about the pure vinyl you mentioned. I appreciate you stopping by. Take care!

[@arsenal-slr9552]

So easy. Thank you!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

No problem, you are welcome!

[@allen4758]

I just bought the same stuff at Lowe's this weekend, doing some repairs and thought heck , I'll just replace the whole wall 😂 , probably not the best place for a rookie like me to start .

[@zachkershew7019]

How'd it go?

[@allen4758]

@@zachkershew7019 well it's all together, now if I can quit fishing long enough to put the drywall on lol, I wish Id done one thing different, but live and learn

[@allen4758]

@@zachkershew7019 I'm glad guy's like share the knowledge and experience, thanks 👍

[@thangkima1817]

Very informative

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you!

[@kevincampos1266]

Very useful! 👍

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I try to make all of my videos easy to follow and useful in the real world. I hope it helps. Thanks!

[@errante-vy7ol]

Thank you sir

[@knnozbey]

Appreciated josh

[@thephantom1026]

Nice!

[@mariomedinafitness]

Great video. Thanks

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks! I hope it helps!

[@azulcakes4747]

Gracias 🎉😊

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome!

[@noahbrewster8263]

Thank you

[@davonfranklin5158]

Great video. I was wondering do you leave the shim in the uneven window or do you remove it once you nail the window in.

[@lonnieclemens8028]

The last time I installed a new window flashing tape did not exist. I am happy to see it now.

[@Dblood85]

My 35 year old house seconds that!

[@jamiehalifax4954]

Can thick blue tuck tape be used instead of that specialized kind you used ??

[@coachbowman7979]

Josh, wish you had one installing a new construction bay window and constructing a hip roof above it.

[@christopherdekonstrukt444]

I bought two new construction windows as I have to rebuild my rough openings. I may have to cut the fin at the brick face on one and two sides for each window.

[@Serious-Man]

Can this installation method be used if replacing a window on a structure with t1-11 siding? Trying to avoid buying "replacement" windows without the nailing flange because it seems like a much more difficult install.

[@masterconstruction1989]

Good luck 👍💓✨💗💖

[@Juicesquaredchevy]

Is this process the same for stucco exterior? Or is there different windows for different exterior walls. (Stucco/siding)?

[@jamiehalifax4954]

If you use the nailing flange and have expanding foam around the window, do you still need to use screws and shims in the window frame ?..say a 2x3 ft window ..

[@1gmhope]

You don't put flashing tape on bottom of window? Unfortunately my projects are mostly fixing other's mistakes so I'm trying to figure out fixims without having to completely re-do. Thanks for the info

[@tszymk77]

No, in case water gets somewhere behind it has a place to flow out the bottom.

[@sfbluestar]

How about the moldings around the window?

[@ocean_008]

i was looking for how to install a window, and this the the literal how to install a window. lol

[@mplscarsales6652]

Good video would be putting a window anywhere like cutting a opening for a window .

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks a lot for the video idea! I’m always open to hear recommendations from my viewers. Take care!

[@user-dm1md3ns9q]

Do you have a video on how to replace a window on an already built house?

[@MrItalianfighter1]

First, I counter flash by taping the sheathing to the framework before I put up the housewrap. You do not caulk or nail the bottom of the window. You want the bottom to be able to allow any potential water to drain down and out. So you only caulk and nail the top and sides. Then flash taps the sides, Also, before flashing the top of the window, install a top cap flash under the house wrap to the top window flange, then tape over it. Then, lay the house wrap over the top cap flashing and tape over that.

[@under6977]

So, I do not have a new build, Could I use a new build window and place on a older house? I am replacing the siding anyways

[@jacane6519]

how/what is the quality of the american craftsman windows?

[@zacharyolds1639]

Good video ❤

[@pissysoles6996]

If the window is level on the bottom or top then it has to be plumb right? The only way to adjust the plumb would be to tilt it up or down which would change the level you had just previously checked. Plumb is level in this case.

[@Jack-vm1fg]

Could you please explain why it would be necessary to check for squareness of a pre-manufactured window? Isn't that a given?

[@austintomkewitz3981]

It's not about the squareness of the window itself it's about the squareness of how the window is sitting in it's rightful place

[@AOMartialArts]

Good question. The window is made of plastic/vinyl. If you were to set it on a framing sill that's not level & square, it can shift and settle a bit. That makes it un-square. Even just a 1/8 inch out of square can make the window bind up and be hard to open and shut or not go up all the way, etc. That's why the other window he showed had a little shim under it. And, just like hanging a door, you want to shim around the sides and top too when the manufacturer suggests side-screw mounting like in a brick vinyl window.

[@shirleya-z794]

Did you not use shims under the bottom of the window? Most window installation videos say that’s a very important step so you can insulate under the window.

[@AOMartialArts]

Modern windows are already Low-e Argon filled insulated. You're not adding much by squeezing in 1/4inch of insulation. Rather to have a solidly mounted window that's seated on the framing sill than on some thin cedar shims and secured by a vinyl tab.

[@jameslivinfree7705]

What about a rain drip strip on top of the window?

[@LG-xm7ow]

Can you please show how to install replacement windows as we are doing a full renovation.

[@micha-42]

Seconded! Most people watching these channels are doing reno rather than building a new house :D

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Stay tuned, because eventually I will be doing projects such as renovations. Thanks for watching this one!

[@LG-xm7ow]

Hopefully soon. I dont trust the other videos out there. Your the best. And our windows are ordered.

[@jameshollingsworth1198]

When replacing the old wooden, single pane windows in my mom's kitchen last year (two total) a 36x32 Pella double-hung vinyl replacement cost me $362 at Lowes... the other 38x42 window was an even better quality, that was heavily discounted due to the nail flange being cracked and torn...I paid $200 for the $550 window, shaved down the nail flange on all four sides of a "new construction" window, essentially making it a replacement window.

[@CloudfeatherRusticWorks]

One question... I thought you were supposed to leave a couple gaps in the silicone along the bottom of the window, that was any water that does make its way in there has a way out.

[@acedegenerate2254]

How do you choose the right size of window? I'm measuring 34x58.5 I go to Lowes and nothing fits. Home depot has a 33.75x56.75 and then in description it has a RO that's a different number than that?????

[@acedegenerate2254]

RO 34.25x57.25

[@AOMartialArts]

This may be way too late, but you typically have windows that you already bought or already KNOW the size of. Then you frame according to the window sizes. Usually the window measurement is a whole number like your example would be a 34 x 59(which is still a bit of an odd number, I would assume it's supposed to be 60").... and the rough opening size would be 1/2inch more width and height. That allows you 1/4 inch on all sides to shim the window square & plum.

[@hamidullaha.saahir9144]

I am enjoying your educational videos, and I understand these are your videos, but the guys that help you at least call them by their name.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I’m glad you are enjoying my content! Oh yes, we have a very good work relationship. I’m using the term helper to help the viewer understand what is happening. I appreciate your input!

[@jamiehalifax4954]

Wouldn't it be better to silicone the nailing flange directly to the wood and then lay the house wrap over the allready installed window in case water gets behind the wrap ??

[@justinrrizzo]

Aren't you supposed to leave a gap between the window and the sill?

[@ritamaterne3107]

How do I know what type of wood my wall is?

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Are you referring to what type of wood the framing is, or type of wood the sheathing is?

[@ritamaterne3107]

@@TheExcellentLaborer The framing, I'm in the process of changing my windows.

[@MobtacticsBruh]

An excellent laborer can do it in 11:59mins!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Can’t be excellent every time😃 Thanks for the comment!

[@sim539]

Can please make a video on how to install a window a bit smaller or larger then the original

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I could definitely do that but I will say the process is exactly the same. Only difference would be bigger or small pieces of flashing tape. I hope that helps!

[@sim539]

@@TheExcellentLaborer thanks

[@institches2750]

You'll need to adjust the framing of the wall. Not too hard, assuming you have access. If it's a finished wall that you're remodeling, then it can be a pain.

[@sim539]

@@institches2750 we are going to re sheet rock the walls thanks

[@institches2750]

@@sim539 That makes it a bit easier, though I will say the OUTSIDE can be the tricky part. If you use a new construction window with a nailing flange, you'll need to get the flange behind the siding, which may require moving or removing some sections. If you use a replacement window (no nailing flange, screwed through the side into the framing), then you'll probably have to add some kind of trim/molding to finish the outside. You you may have to cut or patch the siding in either case, depending on if you go bigger or smaller with the window.

[@robrobbins7085]

This window is installed in a wood frame house. How would the window be installed on a concrete rough opening? Same type of window, or a different type of nailing flange? In Florida 😎

[@brettjenson2588]

If the framers do thier jobs right every windows should go fast

[@brianfogiel9118]

diy with no siding on

[@hior12israel49]

Sounds like Dr. Evil

[@christopherdekonstrukt444]

So you only flash the sill and not the whole rough opening.

[@JessiSlaughter69]

Wait is this windows 10 or 11?

[@obfuscator]

should have spaced the bottom of the window too

[@rickwest2818]

I don't think you should be caulking under the flange on the bottom of the window, for the same reason you didn't tape it. Also, for wide windows that have a header over them that bears significant load, don't nail the top flange. Give the header the ability to flex under load.

[@christopherdekonstrukt444]

I see you leave the bottom of the flap to let water run out.

[@smellgoodbarber]

Plumbness is making sure the window is sticking out equally bottom and top

[@zacharyolds1639]

Don’t use the orange can use blue can of can insulation

[@TheJudgeJuryExecutioner]

Where these 3x5 windows?

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Yes 3’ x 5’. I hope that helps!

[@dimemega00]

Bro sounds like hes from Western PA

[@klbass68]

Great video. However, personally, I still would recommend using a roller to seal the tape. Not just your hand.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Roller probably does give the best seal, but using anything to create pressure does just that. Thanks for your input!

[@federil0k0]

im building a house in the middle of no where and gonna go die in it

[@christopherdekonstrukt444]

Paid $259 and $299 for a 24" x 69" and a 36" x 60" Jeld-wen single hung window no grille.

[@arsenicjones9125]

That’s not cracks that MIGHT be there it’s cracks that most defiantly is there

[@504CharlieBoy504]

Good job on the video

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I appreciate that!

[@ryanhenson609]

Is it honestly possible for a beginner to replace a window? Please be honest. lol

[@maxmoreno1955]

Great video but 12 minutes my a**

[@kamalgammoh1033]

Hello josh, why did you caulk the bottom side of that window?? You know better than this !😅

[@coopcoo]

Where on earth did you find a window for 400 dollars?

[@dionpena3861]

Could depend on where the house is, in what state for weather purposes.

[@HeinKoKEKO]

I didn't search for actual window installation, I searched for window 11

[@tamikanning]

Thumbs down on the quackzine ad.

[@ExtremeRecluse]

Never use vinyl!!!

[@user-pk5pu2fy3b]

Definitely a couple things wrong with this install.. got most of it ok but for a dyi video, using a new build for a video isnt the greatest choice.. there is so much more required to do for homes that already have an exsisting window.

[@reloadrefine]

So you charge a customer for 12 minutes of labor? 🤔

[@institches2750]

...I mean, I would? Twelve minutes isn't zero. Plus, you have to consider drive time, which is unpaid. Picking up the window, if the contractor did that and not the customer. Cost of wear on tools, clothing/ PPE, and vehicle. Gas. The experience of having installed it before and knowing how to troubleshoot problems before they arise. It is NOT twelve minutes the first time you do it, lol. That's why most contractors have a minimum. I, personally, will not drive 45 minutes across the city to do ten minutes of work. Also, this guy builds his own houses, so he isn't charging the customer. He IS the customer.

[@reloadrefine]

Makes sense 🤦🏻‍♂️🤪🤫🤥🫣

[@sim539]

12 min for a skilled worker who knows what he is doing and not taking 5 hours for coffee breaks 😂😂😂

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I build spec homes. I do not get paid by the hour. So in theory the quicker I work the more money I make. I hope that helps!

[@davidzwicker5662]

Anyone commenting here should not install a window. It’s not always perfect . That flashing technique is bare minimum. Good luck if you live with bad weather.

[@javamochafrap]

Title should be how to install a NEW window. This video is not for replacement.

[@welcometosusansmukbang9215]

🪟 Nice video ❤ But a lot of builders are doing lousy job with brand new house. It is a freaking nightmare‼️