Installing a Bay Window
- Place the window in the opening
- Pick up the window and rest the bottom platform on the rough sill. Then tilt the unit up so the trim around the outside butts against the sheathing. Center the jambs between the trimmer studs. While your helpers hold the window, slide sawhorses underneath to hold it.
- Shim the window bottom
- Use a level to determine which end of the seat board is higher. Nail that end to the rough sill. With the level positioned on the seat board, drive shims from both inside and outside between the sill and the seat board, placing the shims over each cripple stud. When the seat board is level, nail through the shims into the rough sill.
- Shim the window sides
- Check for plumb along the iambs, bath from side to side and from front to back. Drive shims between the jamb and the trimmer studs as needed, spacing them 12 inches apart. When the iambs are perfectly straight and plumb, drill pilot holes and drive finishing nails through the iambs and shims into the trimmer studs.
- Shim the window top
- Shim the head board and header until they are bath straight and level. Measure at several places between the head board and seat board; the measurements should be exactly the same. Secure the head board by driving nails through it and the shims. Fill any cavities with insulation. If the window requires cables, anchor them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Build the roof
- Staple plastic sheeting over the top of the window and trim the excess with a utility knife. If you’re installing a roof with a prebuilt frame, position the roof frame on top of the window and fasten it to the cripple studs and the top of the window. If you’re building your roof without a frame, install rafters, as shown. (ut and nail hip and end rafters at each end.
- Cut siding & sheath the roof
- Rest the center piece of roof sheathing against the top edge of the window and against the siding; mark where the sheathing touches the siding. Repeat with end pieces. Remove the sheathing and frame, and cut the siding along the pencil lines. Remove the siding. Then nail the sheathing to the rafters, using 2-inch nails spaced 6 inches apart.
- Finish the exterior
- After covering the bottom of the window with plastic sheeting, install a 2-by-2 frame near the outer edges. Nail furring strips to the skirt boards and screw the boards to the 2 by 2s. Cover the bottom panel with insulation and attach it to the furring strips.
Use trendy, woven wood blinds to decorate your windows.
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