by Chris Kling

Created on: December 20, 2007

Have you ever called one of those replacement window companies, hoping to upgrade your windows and save money on your energy bill, only to suffer sticker shock? Were you so surprised by the cost that you gave up and said "forgetaboutit!"?

It doesn't have to be so.

There are two types of vinyl replacement windows available for purchase at your local independent building supply store, and that's also where you'll find more knoweldgeable, more experienced sales associates to help you pick the right material for the job.

"Replacement windows" are available in two types of units, the "pocket window" and the "sash replacement system". Both types are suitable for replacing your windows only if the existing window jamb, or frame, is in good shape. If you have wood rot that cannot be patched on the jamb or the existing sill, then you need complete window units, and that should probably be left to a pro.

But if your existing window jamb and sill are in good shape, then replacement windows are the way to go, and you can do it yourself for considerably less money - and time - than you think!

First, let's define some terms. A "window" is actually a system, called a "window unit" in the industry. The "window unit" is comprised of a jamb, which as a header, two legs and a sill; upper and lower sashes, which are the parts of the window that go up and down; and the "jamb liners", which are the vinyl or aluminum tracks with springs that hold the sashes in place. There are also different trim pieces; on the outside of the window, typically you will find "brick molding". It's not made of brick, it's just what it's called, because that's what the brick (or other siding) on a house would butt up against; then there is the "stop" molding on the inside, and this is typically what holds the jamb liners in place. Then, of course, there is typically a sash lock, and that, obviously, is what locks the window unit.

This system, this "window unit" is what you would get if you were buying a new window unit for "new construction". After the window unit was installed, you would then need "casing" and the "stool", which are the decorative trim pieces which cover the gap between the window jamb and your interior finish surface - the Sheetrock or paneling, for instance. This trim typically does not come with the window unit, as there are too many design options available in that regard. (The stool is what I grew up putting prescription meds on and calling the sill, but the sill is actually the bottom

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