affordable options for replacing very old windows

If you want to have new windows installed in your home, wood is still a common choice of materials. It is a durable material that is easy to maintain and care for. You may want to prepare the openings before you install them and do the painting yourself. Here are some tips to help you prepare for new windows and paint them after they are installed in your home:

1. Adding A Moisture Barrier Around Windows

When using wood windows, it is important to have a moisture barrier to protect from water damage. Asphalt felt paper has commonly been used to protect the bottom of the window, but it does not protect the top or sides. You may want to use a house wrap if possible when installing new windows.

2. Using Sealant Tape To Seal Around Windows And Keep Water Out

After you have a moisture barrier, you can seal around them better using a special window tape. This is a rubber-like tape that is used to make the opening around the window waterproof. If you did not use house wrap, you can use this tape around the entire window opening. If you used house wrap, you can just use the tape to seal up the corners of the opening.

3. Caulking Around The Windows After They Have Been Installed

Once the opening has been sealed up, the window can be installed. With wood windows, there are going to be cracks around the wood moldings of the window frame. These gaps need to be sealed up using caulking. Use an exterior caulking to apply a line of caulk around the window wherever there is a crack. You will want to make sure the caulking is wide enough to paint and seal up any cracks where water can get in.

4. Adding A Final Coat Of Paint And Finishing Touches To The Windows

After you have caulked around the windows, you will be ready to add a coat of paint. Wood windows may have a coat of primer. The window casing will have to have a finish coat of paint added to them. This is also the time when you will want to do any repairs and touch up to the windows.

These are some of tips to help prepare for new windows and paint the wood after they are installed. If you are ready to have new windows installed in your home, contact a home window installation contractor like Solar Shield Windows to get the help you need.