Step 1:
Measure and prepare the opening to make a rough opening that is 1 inch wider and ¾ inch higher than your new Belisle window. Make sure that the rough opening is square and plumb.
Step 2:
Center the window unit in the rough opening so that there is ½ inch on each side between the window jamb and the opening.
Step 3:
Make sure that the window sill is level. Install shims under each jamb and vertical post (if applicable) to level the sill if required. Install additional shims between the jamb and the opening on each side of the window at approximately 6 inches from the bottom of the unit.
Step 4:
Center the top of the window unit in the rough opening. Make sure that the window frame is plumb and level both ways: 1) from left to right, 2) from front to back. Install additional shims between the jamb and the opening on each side of the window at approximately 6 inches from the top of the unit.
Step 5:
Check that the window frame is square by measuring the two diagonals (See Figure C). The two dimensions should be identical (1/16-inch difference is acceptable). Check that the window operates smoothly, and step back to check if the gaps between the sash(es) and the jambs are consistent on the entire perimeter. If the window is not operating properly or if the gaps are uneven, readjust the shims until the window operates smoothly and the gaps between the sash(es) and the window frame are consistent.
Step 6:
For windows that are 42 inches high or less, there is usually no need to add any additional shims. For windows that are higher than 42 inches, install an additional shim at center (between top and bottom shims) on each side of the window between the jambs and the opening. For double or single hung windows, always install an additional shim at center (align with meeting rails) on each side of the window between the jambs and the opening.
NOTE: When installing shims at center, make sure that the jambs remains plumb (not bowed towards left or right).
For windows that are 42 inches wide or less (without vertical post), there is usually no need to add any additional shim under the sill. For windows between 42 and 84 inches wide, install an additional shim under the sill (at center). For windows wider than 84 inches wide, install two additional shims equally spaced under the sill (either side of center). For windows with vertical posts, always install shims under each post.
NOTE: When installing shims under the sill, make sure that the sill remains level (not bent). Do not install shims at the top of the unit between the head jamb and the opening. The window should never support any weight other than its own.
A = PlumbB = LevelC = SquareD = Shims
Step 7:
Use 3 ½-inch #8 screws to screw through the window jambs at shim locations only, into the studs (2x6 or 2x4 wall).
For the Ancestral inswing French casement, screw behind the Lozaron (Bulb) weather-stripping. For the Rustic outswing casement, screw behind the Q-Lon weather-stripping. For single or double hung windows, screw right next to the inside of the parting strip. Repeat this last step at each shim location.
NOTE: Steel angles will be provided for installation of fixed windows or windows with fixed sidelites.
Step 8:
Use low-expansion spray foam insulation to insulate under the windowsill. For the sides and at the head, you can use the same foam insulation but we suggest using fiberglass insulation.
Step 9:
Cut the excess of shims that extend on the interior/exterior of the house. Install interior/exterior trim or casing.
Finishing and maintenance:
If you have purchased your windows unfinished or primed only, you must finish them with stain or paint within 30 days after delivery. Please see Belisle’s limited warranty. For maintenance, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations (e.g., Sikkens, Benjamin Moore, etc.).
Never apply stain or paint over weather-stripping or hardware components; this may impair the product's performance.
Clean and lubricate hardware regularly. Use only a proper lubricant. Inspect the weather-stripping regularly and replace it if necessary.
Surface condensation:
To avoid excess condensation, make sure that there is sufficient ventilation in front of the window and maintain relative humidity at an acceptable level. For outswing casement windows, remove screens during winter. The following table shows suggested relative humidity levels at a 68oF (20oC) interior temperature with different exterior temperatures. By maintaining the humidity level at the suggested figure, you will help reduce the risk of surface condensation.
|
Exterior temperature |
Max. interior humidity level |
|
-22°F (-30°C) or less |
15% |
|
-22°F to -11°F (-30°C to -24°C) |
20% |
|
0°F to 10°F (-18°C to -12°C) |
30% |
|
10°F to 21°F (-12°C to -6°C) |
35% |
|
21°F to 32°F (-6°C to 0°C) |
40% |
