OT: vinyl replacement windows

I asked the question a few months back about what brand of windows to get and well, I settled on Polaris Thermawelds. They seem like a real good window but I"ve got some questions on installing them as I"ve never done the replacement window thing before and of course no installation instructions came with the things.

Each window came with a small strip of vinyl(similar to whats ont he bottom of screen door, just thicker and not as flexible) that looks like it slides in at the bottom of the window. I"m assuming that where it goes because it would appear to cover the angled window seal. If this is not correct, would someone please enlighten me.

Second, should I have some sort of spacer system for the top. I would swear that the windows will be about a half an inch to short, but I had the dealer come and measure them. I can always put a peice of trim outside around the top if it is to short, but that would be a pain. Or does the strip I referred to at first make a difference in the height??

And last, the windows have 3 pre-drilled holes on the outside of the frame. On the inside of the window, I only have access to the bottom holes. They are pre drilled all the way thru and have a place for the head to be countersunk. The middle and top screw do not unless its under the track somewhere, but I don"t think that these could be took aprt in any way. Any suggestions or help would be great.

1.) The single strip you're talking about IS for the window sill angle. It goes on the bottom outside of the window. You may have to cut it to fit. 2.) Sounds to me like the man measured wrong. Or , at least not as close as he could have. Vinly windows come with top expander also. Not all , but most. If you're talking about double/single hung windows , look under the balance covers at the top of the window frame for the other holes. If casement , slider , or awning style , you may have to make your own holes.

They are double hung windows. You'll havew to pardon me on the window jargon, as I am a newbie. But the holes look like they will be directly behind the "bottom" window track, and I can't find any to get behind these....

Casey , I don't quite follow what you are trying to say.

where is his customer service? with the cost of windows, at least he could show you how to install it. its real simple, but without pictures it would be near impossible to explain

Casey we need more information. What kind of windows are you replacing, double hung, case ment ect. How did you end up ordering the thermawelds and why does the supplier say they are the right size? Are these retrofits or whole new windows ? Is your house stucco, wood or something else ? Please don't start the install untill you know how you are going to do the flashing and trim details ( I made that mistake, you don't have to). When I order replacement windows, (almost always double hung replaced by single hung vinyl)for my rentals or flippers, I allow for 3/8 inch gap all the way around, filled buy minimal expanding foam, and then trimmed out.

I can't address the 'flaps' at the bottom and top but the 'rough opening' should be about one-half inch larger than the window for alignment purposes. If you bought 'old construction' windows they are secured with screws through the sides of the frame after being wedged to obtain level and plumb. You fill the void with insulating material of your choice.

As I was riding by on my tractor I noticed that my windows are looking kinda bad but quickley my vision turned toward the worn out front tires on my tractor so I guess I'll see what YTMAG has to offer as far as tires go.

Before you install the new windows. Remove the old sashes and drill holes in the window casing all the way around where the new window will cover and shoot foam into the gaps between the stud in the wall and the casing including the sill especially if there were sash weights in there. A lot of wind will work its way through those gaps.