Removing the Old Frame
Depending on how the old window is finished on the outside,
you can choose to remove the old frame completely versus
leaving in the old frame. You start the same by removing the
sash (operating and fixed) and cutting out the meeting stile.
Once the meeting stile is removed, used the reciprocal saw 
to cut the sill and header part of the frame slightly to facili-
tate bending and collapsing it using a crow bar to pry it up.
Use a wood block under the crowbar to minimize potential
damage to the sill and header. Pry directly up and the frame
will come out from between the siding and the sheathing. It
won’t take much effort to do so and that will “tear” the nailing
fin slots away from the nails allowing the frame to collapse.
Do it on the bottom, the sides and the header and you should
be able to remove it completely.
Take care to cover the gap and use slow expansion foam 
sealing tape and/or insulation to cover the gap before 
setting the new window in against the old framing members
along the inside jambs, sill and header.
Seal the new window along the outside, taking care to leave
weep gaps in the sealant along the sill before setting new
molding against the new window frame to fill out the space
out to the siding. 
Carefully seal the outside to divert water away from the 
window rather than letting it get in behind the trim.
Window Fitters Guide to Window Installation 
72               ©2022 AWDI, LLC Do not reproduce without permission
Making the
Choice: Taking
the Old Frame
Out
SAMPLE MANUAL

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