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Tools 
Window Fitters Guide to Window Installation 
2                ©2022 AWDI, LLC Do not reproduce without permission
Good tools can make the precision job of installing
windows easier and more successful. Included are
many of the basic tools window and door installation
would need, and a couple of useful tools that may
not be necessary, but can simplify many of the 
complex tasks a window installer can face.
1. CAULK GUN -The caulk gun is a basic tool. What
can help immensely is a caulk gun with an easy way
to relieve the pressure once you reach the end of the
bead, to avoid the over application and mess too
much caulk can cause. 
2.CIRCULAR HAND SAW and RECIPROCAL SAW -
Plug-in or battery operated, circular saws are great
for cutting wood mucks, cutting back siding, and
even cutting new trim. The reciprocal is the go-to saw
to remove old frames from wood, aluminum and
steel. Cuts buried nails keeping opening cleaner.
3. DRILL AND DRILL BITS - An electric, variable
speed drill for drilling mounting holes; even into
block, though a hammer drill would be better. 
Have a variety of drill bits, but as a rule of thumb,
the diameter of the drill bit should be the same as
the shaft of the screw. Variable speed allows the drill
to be a power screwdriver.
4. PLYERS AND SNIPS - Pliers can help pry parting
stops out of the jambs and header, and help remove
staples holding aluminum or vinyl tracks in place
from old sash windows. Locking pliers are a good
addition to the tool box, as well. Tin snips help 
trim coil stock and cut sheet metal from behind 
old windows.
5. HAMMER AND PRYBAR - Though nails are 
seldom used except for finned or flanged windows,
hammer claws can help remove old frames. The 
best bet is the prybar to get the leverage to remove
old frames, and help pull the fin out from between
the siding and wall when removing old aluminum
windows.
6. PAINTERS TOOL, SCRAPER AND BRUSH - 
The various cut-outs in a “Painters Tool” are
extremely useful for removing old nails, prying out
small window pieces, etc. Scrapers can clean the 
old frame, and a good brush is indispensable for
cleaning the old tracks.
7. RAZOR KNIFE - Simple and indispensable, razor
knives cut everything from wood trim, to insulation,
flashing and even scoring coil stock for bending.
8. BAR CLAMP - Perfect tool to “lock” new window in
place when it’s been plumbed, leveled and squared
until it has been anchored. 
SAMPLE MANUAL

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