subject: Installing Sliding Windows In A New Home [print this page] The chief virtue of sliding windows is that you can get them custom made to fit any opening you want. So, decide on those measurements first, and then frame in the opening. Typically, this will require cutting through some studs. If the window is especially wide, build a temporary support wall to hold up the outer wall until the sliding window is in place. Be sure to make the lower sill level, and make the opening about half an inch larger on all sides than the window; this will allow for making minor adjustments so that it'll be level and plumb.
Get the opening clear of any sawdust, screws, and so on. Such debris can mar the sliding window and prevent it from being level. Then attach the sheathing to the outside of the house, and cut the opening for the window. In most cases, you'll also want to attach a vapour barrier to the outside, and then cut a hole for the window. Rather than just cut it out completely, cut the barrier so that you can wrap it around the hole and staple it to the interior of the house.
After that, position the window in the opening; be sure to have help, if the window is especially large, so that you don't get hurt. You also don't want to run the risk of damaging the window. Once the sliding window is in place, use a single screw for each of the sides to keep it in place, and then use a level and shims to adjust it to get it plumb and level. At that point, put in the remaining screws to completely attach the window, and run some sealing compound all around the inside and outside edge. Finally, install the drywall and take down the temporary wall.
