Removing Old Windows: How to Do It Right

Removing old windows is the first step in replacing a window unit. The quality of this work determines how well the new window will fit and how long it will serve. Let’s examine in detail how to properly remove old windows. In Kyiv, many apartments need to replace old windows with modern plastic ones, and proper removal is the key to a successful result.

Tools for Removal

To remove an old window, you’ll need the following tools:

Main Tools

• Angle grinder — for cutting metal elements
• Hammer drill or impact drill — for breaking concrete and brick
• Hammer — for striking wooden elements
• Chisel — for chipping off old mortar
• Metal saw — for cutting reinforcement
• Screwdriver or drill — for removing fasteners

Additional Tools

• Level — for checking opening geometry
• Safety glasses — mandatory!
• Gloves — for hand protection
• Respirator — for dust protection
• Vacuum cleaner — for cleaning debris

UWS Expert Tip: Don’t use tools with damaged cables or broken handles. This can lead to injuries during work.

Room Preparation

Before starting removal, you need to prepare the room to minimize dust and dirt.

Furniture Protection

1. Move furniture out of the room where removal is being done, or cover it with dense film
2. Remove curtains and cornices — they can be damaged by dust
3. Close shelves and cabinets — even closed doors won’t protect from fine dust

Dust Protection

• Close doors to other rooms, place a wet towel under the door
• Open the window (if it’s still intact) for ventilation
• Use a household vacuum cleaner during work

Floor Protection

• Place polyethylene film or cardboard on the floor
• This will prevent damage to the coating and simplify cleaning

Important: Prepare the room in advance. After removal starts, dust will spread very quickly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Removing Sashes

1. Open the sash for ventilation
2. Remove the hinges (usually fastened with screws)
3. Carefully remove the sash from the frame
4. Place the sash on a flat surface

Step 2: Removing the Glass Unit

1. Remove the glazing beads (thin strips holding the glass)
2. Carefully remove the glass unit
3. Caution: the glass unit can be heavy (up to 30 kg)
4. Place the glass unit vertically on a soft surface

Step 3: Removing the Frame

1. Find the frame attachment points to the wall (anchors, screws)
2. Remove fasteners using a drill or angle grinder
3. If the frame is glued — use a chisel and hammer
4. Carefully remove the frame from the opening

Step 4: Cleaning the Opening

1. Remove remaining foam and insulation
2. Clean walls from old mortar
3. Check opening geometry with a level

UWS Expert Tip: If the frame is heavily glued or grows into the wall, don’t try to tear it out by force. This can damage the opening. It’s better to contact professionals who have the appropriate tools. In Kyiv, UWS specialists perform removal of any complexity, including windows in historic buildings.

Opening Preparation After Removal

After removing the old window, you need to prepare the opening for the new one.

Checking Opening Condition

1. Wall integrity — check for cracks and chips
2. Geometry — walls must be vertical and horizontal
3. Dimensions — compare with new window dimensions (2-3 cm gap on each side)

Fixing Defects

• Cracks — fill and sand
• Chips — repair with cement mortar
• Irregularities — level with plaster

Cleaning

• Remove dust and debris
• Degrease surfaces (if adhesive fastening is planned)
• Moisturize walls (for better adhesion with foam)

Important: Don’t start installing a new window in a dirty or unprepared opening. This will lead to poor thermal insulation and possible leaks.

Safety Tips

Window removal is work associated with increased danger. Follow safety rules.

Mandatory Protective Equipment

• Safety glasses — protect eyes from fragments and dust
• Respirator — protects respiratory tract from cement dust
• Strong gloves — protect hands from cuts
• Protective clothing — closed clothing made of durable fabric

Precautions

1. Check the tool before starting work
2. Don’t work alone — someone should be nearby
3. Don’t exceed loads — don’t try to lift too heavy elements
4. Turn off electricity in the work area
5. Warn neighbors about possible noise

What to Do in Case of Injury

• For cuts — rinse the wound and apply a bandage
• For bleeding — press the wound and seek medical help
• If dust gets in eyes — rinse them with plenty of water

Contact UWS: Our installation crews have all necessary tools and protective equipment. We’ll perform removal quickly, quality, and safely. Details at uws.com.ua. UWS provides old window removal and new window installation services in all districts of Kyiv — Solomianskyi, Kharkivskyi, Darnytskyi, and others.