Plan a Do-It-Yourself Project

The goal of this article is help you prepare and plan for a Do-It-Yourself project, such as installing your own replacement windows or doors.

Step 1: Where to Start

Is there an area in your home that you have been thinking about updating or fixing because it just needs to be replaced? Do a quick survey of your house and make a home improvement To Do List. If you’re not sure where to start, then prioritize your list according to factors such as urgency, cost, or difficulty. Remember: you don’t have to do it all once! As soon as you decide to update part of your home, you can begin planning your Do-It-Yourself project. You may want to start with any easy task that you can finish in a day, and then work your way up to bigger projects that take more planning. Before you know it, you’ll finally replace those old, drafty windows and out-dated doors.

Step 2: Check Local Building Codes

Getting the necessary permits is not just a legal requirement, but will protect the safety and value of your home and family. Call the local building department in your area for questions about permit fees, expiration dates or extensions. Reference specific laws that involve government regulated restrictions or Home Ownership Association rules. You will need a permit to replace or install a new window, a door opening, water heater and many other various projects. Check with your local building department for the application and process so you can plan accordingly.

Step 3: Research Your Project

Do your homework before you start. Attend a free workshop at your local home improvement center. Purchase how-to books or magazines and become familiar with your project. Watch how-to videos on home improvement websites. Finally, ask experts for their advice in what supplies are most recommended and how weather may impact your project. If you plan to install a window, you may want to wait until dry season occurs to prevent water damage in the process.

Step 4: Take Measurements. Twice!

This first thing you will need to know is how much space you have to work with or what size product you will need. Knowing the exact dimensions of a window or door space is essential before placing an order. Measure the space, then measure it twice — or have someone else double-check your work. If you’re not sure how to measure a space to fit a window or door, then review our installation instructions before ordering. Write down your measurements so you don’t forget them, and bring them with you to your local home improvement store.

Step 5: Making a Purchase

Once you know what you want, then you’re ready to place an order. If you know exactly what you need, you can often save money by ordering online; if you need personal assistance, then work with a specialist at your local home improvement store. Make a list of all the supplies and materials you will need so you only have to make one trip to the store. There’s nothing more frustrating then having to stop in the middle of a project in order to run out and get a minor part. Depending on the part or material, you may want to get a little extra in case you make a mistake. To makes things easy, JELD-WEN offers installation kits and different options depending on whether you are installing a new window or door, just replacing an existing one.

Step 6: Gather Your Tools

Plan ahead and identify exactly what kind of tools you will need for every step of your project, and gather them in advance. If you know you will need a tool again in the future, then go ahead and purchase it. If it’s just a one-time need, then find out if you can borrow it from a friend or neighbor, or if you can rent it from a local store. Check that all your tools and equipment is in working condition before you begin. If you’re working with power tools, then make sure everything is charged, or that you have a long enough extension cord. This way, you will have everything you need when you need it.

Step 7: Double-Check Everything before You Start

Make sure you have all the materials you will need and have checked for defective parts before disassembling your current structure. You’ll want to determine that you have the correct sized window before removing the old one especially if the weather has become unpredictable. Faulty or inaccurate materials can delay your project, or add unexpected costs. Having proper materials will enhance the success of your Do-It-Yourself project.

Step 8: Get Help

If the product you are working with is heavier than what you can maneuver yourself, plan ahead of time to have someone lend a hand. Having more than one person help can also save you time. Ask a friend, family member or neighbor to help out, and let them know that you can help them with their own projects. This is also a great teaching opportunity for kids, who can help with simple or small tasks – even it it’s just holding a flashlight steady for you. Just be sure to explain safety precautions to them. As always, making preparations in advance saves time and promotes safety.

Step 9: Prep and Installation

Once you have made all the necessary arrangements and planning, you are now ready to begin. If you are installing windows and doors, make sure to prep the area first, and move anything that might get damaged or stained. If necessary, use newspaper, drop cloth or tape to protect sensitive surfaces. If you’re installing a window or door, position it first to make sure it is facing the right way and opens in the right direction. Once you complete your project, check it over for accuracy.

Step 10: Clean Up

It may not be your favorite part of the project, but cleaning up promptly reduces the risk of accidents and lets you start enjoying your home improvements sooner. Put away all your unused materials, supplies and tools. Staying organized and labeling things will help you locate items when you are ready for your next home improvement project. Planning ahead is the key to success.