Understanding window anatomy is something that most owners wanted to learn and know.
With that being said, one of the most important in having a window is the fabrication and installation of the frames.
Yes, many factors contribute to how durable our windows are but windows frames are one of the most important ones.
A good frame will always secure the window, especially ones with glasses.
It prevents molds, leaks, and other windows issues that could bring troubles to our homes later on.
Knowing how to make frames and other window stuff could be a great advantage.
First, we have to know what window frames are and how they can stabilize our structure.
Everything About Window Frames
A window frame is a skeletal structure of our windows that includes the jambs, heads, sills, and sashes.
It is a perimeter of the window which could hold and stabilize once the glasses are in.
By design, it is a collection of studs either wood or steel, which could hold the window for more years of use.
Accurately built and designed window frames are very important.
In this regard, knowing how to frame windows could be a plus when we want to do renovations and other home improvements.
Also, seeking professional help and advice during the process could make things easier and faster.
Samson Window-n-Door offers various window replacements and installations that can be of great help.
Also, we do consultations and assessments to ensure that the place is indeed perfect for a quick renovation tenure.
Call our customer service team and we could lend our hands during the process.
Window Frame – Parts and Elements
The building or fabricating a window frame is quite a big work to do.
We have to consider the place where we do it and even the tools that we need in the process.
First, we need to fabricate the whole frame on flat ground to avoid misalignments and other connection issues.
After fabrication, we can lift it and install it on the window opening.
Here are parts and elements that we need to consider during the process:
Top and Bottom Sole Plates
This is a top plate with custom sizes located at the top and bottom for support.
It runs that length of the house at the top and bottom which is also the basis of the whole frame measurement.
Window Header
Window headers are a pair of boards (2 x 4 inboard or winder ones for big windows) that cover the width of the frame.
Its location is on the edge ensuring it forms the inside of the window frame.
Support Top Studs
It is a short vertical stud that supports or holds the top plate and header.
Regular Studs
The main support of the whole frame is the regular studs attached to the top plates.
It runs between the top and sole plate making the whole frame durable and strong enough to hold the glass.
Jack or Trimmer Studs
Jack or trimmer studs divide the structure into different parts.
It runs from the bottom sole plate to the bottom of the header.
The Sills or the Sill Plate
The sills are horizontal studs that run between the trimmer studs for support.
Short Support Bottom Studs
It is a small stud that supports the sill plate by attaching it in between the sills and the bottom soleplate.
The Process – Window Frame Fabrication
As owners, we wanted to do renovations and were involved in the whole process of making our homes a bit better.
From groundbreaking to the actual lift of our house, we wanted everything to be on track.
We wanted to do simple things like measuring the doors and windows without creating or causing trouble to the workers.
However, we wanted to do more, we wanted to build something that can be of great advantage to our structure.
So, we take part in the fabrications and do heavy work.
The question is, “How to frame a window?”
Tools and Equipment
- Framing hammers
- Nail Guns
- Riveter (steel frame fabrication)
- Speed Square
- Pencil
- Measuring Tape
- Nails
- Wood Studs
One – Measure The Window
By the use of a measuring tape, measure the height and width of the window.
Draw a rough window frame design as a basis during the fabrication or installation of the studs.
Two – Fabricate The Headers
Get the studs intended for the headers and nail the two pieces of studs together.
Do this on either side while securing that the nails are correctly embedded on the studs.
Three – Add The Regular and Trimmer Studs
Use the header to establish the position of the regular studs.
Ensure that both the top and bottom regular studs are in the right location before securing it with nails.
Add the trimmer studs shortly after the regular ones.
Four – Fabricate and Install the Remaining Studs
Of course, installing these studs could take some time.
However, we have to ensure that the placements are correct before securing it with nails on either side.
Professional Help – Samson Window-n-Door
As owners, we need professional help before things get tough.
Samson Window-n-Door offers home window replacements and installation services that can be a good thing during our structure’s construction.
We have an equipped team ready to be of service anytime.
Call our customer service team and we will be on-site as soon as possible.