Quck answer
To make a window frame, follow these steps:
1. Measure and cut the pieces of wood to the desired length for the frame sides and top and bottom.
2. Use a miter saw to cut the ends of the wood at a 45-degree angle for a clean and professional look.
3. Apply wood glue to the mitered ends and join the pieces together to form the frame.
4. Use clamps to hold the frame together while the glue dries.
5. Once the glue is dry, reinforce the corners with screws for added strength.
6. Sand the frame to smooth out any rough edges.
7. Apply a coat of primer and then paint the frame in the desired color.
8. Install the frame into the window opening, securing it with screws or nails.
By following these steps, you can easily make your own window frame.
A window frame is composed of a wooden liner that fits between the actual window and the rough opening. It is also known as a jamb frame, and it provides a polished, finished surface for the installation of a window.
Window Structure
Rough Frame
The rough frame refers to the opening in the wall where the window will be placed. It may or may not have siding on the exterior and, depending on the type of building, it may also have 5/8-inch-thick sheathing beneath the siding. Additionally, it might have 1/2-inch-thick drywall on the interior side.
Jamb Frame
The jamb frame is the 3/4-inch-thick wooden structure that surrounds the inner perimeter of the rough opening. It serves as a simple lining and is typically constructed using a choice of wood. Hardwood can be used for an elegant jamb frame, while poplar, fir, or pine are suitable for a more economical frame.
Window Sash
The window frame or sash is the thicker frame, typically 1 1/2 inches in thickness, that holds the glass. Some high-end windows may include a grid, which is also part of the sash and holds individual panes of glass. Alternatively, it may simply be an overlay that creates the illusion of individual panes.
Window Stops
The jamb frame may or may not have window stops. These function like door stops on certain windows, holding the window in a specific position within the frame. Unless the window is installed with hinges, window stops are typically not necessary.
Window Sill
The sill is the bottom part of the jamb frame. It may or may not be wider than the actual frame, and it may feature a lip that extends to the exterior, sloping slightly downward to direct moisture away from the window.
Constructing a Frame
For sheds or outbuildings, jamb frames are usually nailed directly onto the rough opening. Pocket frames, commonly used to replace windows in homes, are assembled as a single unit and inserted into the rough opening. However, there is no reason why pocket windows cannot be used for sheds as well.
Step 1: Measure for Dimensions
Measure the sides, top, and bottom of the rough opening to determine the overall dimensions of the frame. If the opening is not perfectly square, record the shortest measurements for pocket windows. If you plan to create a pocket frame, subtract 3/8 inch from the measurements to obtain the overall dimensions.
Step 2: Measure for Depth
The sides and top of the frame should be the same thickness or depth as the rough opening, including the drywall and siding. For instance, if the stud framing is 3 1/2 inches wide, plus 1/2 inch for drywall, and 3/4 inch for siding and sheathing, the three pieces should have a total thickness of 4 3/4 inches. It is recommended to add an extra 1/4 inch to ensure adequate coverage by the jamb, resulting in a total jamb thickness of 5 inches for the top and both sides.
Step 3: Sill Options
The sill offers options for width. It can be wider, with a slight angle to divert water away from the window, or it can have the same width as the sides and top. If you prefer to install an angled sill, add at least 1 1/2 inches to the width. If water is not a concern, it is acceptable to construct the sill with the same width as the sides and top.
Fourth Step: Sketch, Slice or Purchase Pieces
Sketch the structure on a sheet of paper and include the measurements. Increase the length of the top and sill by 1 1/2 inches to ensure they overlap the ends of the two side pieces and create butt joints. You can either order pre-cut pieces from a home supply store or cut them yourself using a table saw.
Fifth Step: Arrange and Fasten
Arrange the pieces on their edges as if the frame has already been assembled. If you want a sloped sill, tilt it at approximately 10 degrees. Use bar clamps to fasten the frame together.
Sixth Step: Drill and Construct
Mark and drill three pilot holes evenly spaced through the ends of the top and sill pieces at each joint using a drill/driver. Apply glue and use 2-inch screws to assemble the frame and create a pocket frame. If you are directly attaching the four pieces to the rough framing, drill pilot holes through the center of each piece using a 3/16-inch bit and screw the top on first. Place wedges under the front of the sill and screw the sill to the sides, with the wedges tilting the sill towards the exterior.
Seventh Step: Install the Frame
The frame is now complete — if you have decided to nail the pieces directly to the rough opening. If you have created a pocket unit, insert the bottom of it into the rough opening. Tilt the top of the frame upward to align it with the opening.
Eighth Step: Insert Wedges
Insert wedges on both sides, as well as at the top and bottom, between the pocket frame and rough opening to secure it. Check for levelness and adjust the wedges as necessary to ensure a level frame.
Ninth Step: Complete the Task
Drill at least three screw holes through the center of each side and along the top. Whenever possible, position the holes to go through the wedges. Use 2-inch screws to attach the frame to the opening.
