Window Fitters Guide to Window Installation 
96               ©2022 AWDI, LLC Do not reproduce without permission
Most manufacturers of vinyl windows supply an
optional nailing fin that can be easily attached to
the perimeter of the window on all four sides. There
are also integral nailing fins that are permanently
part of the frame of the vinyl window. These integral
fins are most commonly available on single-hung 
and single-slider windows.
Vinyl Windows with nailing fin allow them to be
installed in a conventional manner for new 
construction applications.
Instructions for New Construction 
These instructions are meant as a guide only. Code
compliance and architectural design may create 
situations that differ from the illustrations. Some
modification may be required, but these instructions
will cover the basic elements of most installations.
If there is no existing rough opening, construct an
opening like Figure 1, 1/2” larger in height and
width than the window to be used. If there is an
existing rough opening, order a window 1/2” smaller
in height and width. The rough opening should look
similar to Figure 1.  No window should be installed
without a proper header and sill support. All framing
should be in compliance with local codes.
Figure 2 shows the completed rough opening.
Sheathing can be plywood, or structural insulation
board. The important consideration is that the win-
dow can be nailed through the sheathing material to
solid framing - the header, rough sill, and jack studs.
METHOD “A”
METHOD “B”
Installing
Vinyl 
Windows 
in New
Construction
Rough 
Sill
Jack 
Stud
King 
Stud
Sheathing
Cripple 
Studs
Rough 
Header
BASIC WINDOW FRAMING
Method “A” and “B”
There are two basic methods of flashing: Method A where
the Weather Resistive Barrier is applied after the window
is mounted, and Method B where it is applied before
window mounting. These instructions focus on method
“B” with brief reference to the “A” method. Either way the
bottom line is divert the environmental water, drain any
that makes its way inside, and dry whatever is left. Proper
flashing and sill pan is the key.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
METHOD “B”
METHOD “A”
SAMPLE MANUAL

View this content as a flipbook by clicking here.