How to Cut Vinyl Window Grid Inserts to Size
Window grid inserts give single-pane windows a multi-pane finish. Vinyl grid inserts come from the manufacturer in over-sized sections. A window-grid insert installer custom cuts the vinyl grid to fit the window's opening.

Things You Will Need
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- 4-inch angle grinder
- 4-inch fine-tooth wood blade
- Latex caulk
Windows with a beveled sash use window grinds with angled cuts and a straight-cut window grid fits in a window sash with a flat opening. After cutting the vinyl window-grid insert, the installer mounts the grid to the window with either mounting clips or an adhesive.
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Measure the window sash's opening with a tape measure. If the window uses a beveled opening, measure the window's smaller daylight opening and the larger sash opening. The daylight opening touches the window pane.
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Arrange cuts on the vinyl window-grid insert, using a pencil to place measurement marks on the grid's surface. If the window uses a sash with a flat opening, place the measurement marks on the vinyl grid's exterior side. If the window uses a beveled sash, place the sash measurement on the grid's exterior side and the window's daylight opening on the grid's interior side.
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Cut through the vinyl window-grid inserts along its sash-opening measurement marks, using a 4-inch angle grinder equipped with a 4-inch fine-tooth wood blade. Hold the center of the blade on the measurement marks. An angle grinder's high-speed rotation combined with the fine-tooth blade leaves smooth, chip-free cuts along the grid's edges.
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Cut the beveled edge of the vinyl window-grid insert, using the angle grinder's blade to custom cut the bevel's angle. The bevel's angle depends on the window manufacturer's sash design.
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Test fit each vinyl window-grid insert in its respective window. The grid should slip in the window sash's opening without binding. Trim the grid as needed.
Tip
If the vinyl window-grid insert has a gap between one of its edges and the window sash, center the grid over the window pane and fill the equally sized gaps on both sides of the grid with a latex caulk.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Based out of Central Florida, Robert Sylvus has been writing how-to and outdoor sports articles for various online publications since 2008. Sylvus has been a home improvement contractor since 1992. He is a certified HVAC universal technician.
Photo Credits
- Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
- Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
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