subject: Adding A Sliding Window To An Existing Home [print this page] When looking to add a sliding window to your home, you first need to cut the opening. Once you know the dimensions, drill holes on the inside of the room in the corners, and smack a long nail into each hole so that they come through the outer wall. Use a level and chalk line to mark the outline of the sliding window. Be sure that the hole is about half an inch larger than the window you're going to install; you need wiggle room to adjust it.
If the sliding window you're looking to install is very wide, you're going to be cutting through a number of wall studs. You may need to construct a temporary wall in the room to support the wall, while you install the window. Once that's in place, use a reciprocating or circular saw - or something similar - to cut through the wall. On the inside, cut and remove the drywall.
Cover the hole with a moisture barrier, and then cut diagonal slits from each of the corners. Fold it through the hole and staple it in place. Cut small wooden shims so that they won't hang beyond the edge of the opening, and pre-drill holes in them. As shims are very small, they can split, if you're not careful. Put them in place, nail them down, and then place the window in the opening. Using a level and additional shims, adjust the window to get it level and plumb.
After that, secure the window as directed by the manufacturer - with nails or screws. Finally, attach the trimming to the exterior of the window and repair the drywall in the interior. Once you're sure the window is secure, you can take down the temporary wall.
