Doors and Windows - Squaring up replacement windows?
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Jim6918
04-22-03, 10:08 AM
This is probably an age-old remodeling question. I am installing vinyl replacement windows for aluminum single panes. All are exact size replacements. I am cutting back the hardboard exterior siding on all four edges about 3 inches (to get to old nailing flange) and will trim out after new installation with a Prime Trim hard board trim ripped to width. Because the new windows set in deeper than the old windows, I have to cut about an inch all the way around on the interior drywall wrap so that the windows will set flush on the interior.
Despite thinking that the interior window opening appeared pretty square, I am finding that some of the finished openings are out of plumb as much as 1/4 to 3/8 from top to bottom. I am making sure that the new windows are installed perfectly square, and there is no shimming issue since there is a solid nailing surface (studs) on all four sides. My question is what to do on the inside, since the existing drywall appears out of plumb to the new windows. Short of ripping out the drywall, and reinstalling new drywall that is shimmed out to be square, I don't know what to do at this point. Any suggestions?
Despite thinking that the interior window opening appeared pretty square, I am finding that some of the finished openings are out of plumb as much as 1/4 to 3/8 from top to bottom. I am making sure that the new windows are installed perfectly square, and there is no shimming issue since there is a solid nailing surface (studs) on all four sides. My question is what to do on the inside, since the existing drywall appears out of plumb to the new windows. Short of ripping out the drywall, and reinstalling new drywall that is shimmed out to be square, I don't know what to do at this point. Any suggestions?
lefty
04-22-03, 04:52 PM
Only a 1/4" to 3/8" out?? That's not bad!!
Welcome to the world of remodeling, now you have to get creative to make it look right.
Start with the sill of the rough opening. You want the vinyl window frame to be fully supported by the sill, and the sill should be as level as possible. Then you can shim the sheetrock at the header as needed to make it parallel with the sill, then shim the sheetrock on the sides so that it follows the lines of the window.
You will probably have to take all of the 'rock out of the window opening.
Welcome to the world of remodeling, now you have to get creative to make it look right.
Start with the sill of the rough opening. You want the vinyl window frame to be fully supported by the sill, and the sill should be as level as possible. Then you can shim the sheetrock at the header as needed to make it parallel with the sill, then shim the sheetrock on the sides so that it follows the lines of the window.
You will probably have to take all of the 'rock out of the window opening.