Doors and Windows - replacement window questions
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feihin
08-16-05, 05:08 PM
Hello Folks, I need info on how to replace old windows.
1) The current windows are alum. sliders that appear to be the new construction type, where they are attached to the house behind the asbestos shingle siding. They are 3 inches in depth and protrude from the house about 1 inch. I would like to get new vinyl clad that sit flush with the house.
2) Questions= Do they make a replacement window for this type or will I need to re-frame the window opening?
What's the best way to remove the windows without damaging the siding? Should I cut them out with a skill saw using a metal blade, or is there any easier way?? I can't see any screws attaching them.
Thanks in advance for your help. Eric
1) The current windows are alum. sliders that appear to be the new construction type, where they are attached to the house behind the asbestos shingle siding. They are 3 inches in depth and protrude from the house about 1 inch. I would like to get new vinyl clad that sit flush with the house.
2) Questions= Do they make a replacement window for this type or will I need to re-frame the window opening?
What's the best way to remove the windows without damaging the siding? Should I cut them out with a skill saw using a metal blade, or is there any easier way?? I can't see any screws attaching them.
Thanks in advance for your help. Eric
XSleeper
08-16-05, 05:36 PM
You will want to order vinyl replacement windows that come with a nailing fin. These custom sized replacement windows are also referred to as new construction windows (because they have a nailing fin), which is confusing to some.
They will not be flush with the siding, nor with the interior wall when they are installed, because it just doesn't work that way. The window will stick out past the nailing fin, and the nailing fin will need to be covered with trim (brickmould or similar) and be either painted or covered with aluminum trim coil.
As far as getting the old windows out, I would wait until you have the new windows, then measure the new window (let's say it's 48" wide x 36" tall) so I'd imagine where the trim would be going... (if you'll use brickmould trim- 2 1/8" from each side of the window once it's installed) so I'd mark a pencil line on the siding that is 52 1/4" wide, 40 1/4" tall, and cut it with a grinder and diamond cutting wheel while having a helper hold a garden hose while I cut to keep the dust down. I always assume the siding is asbestos and take precautions- even though some of it is cement (slate) and does not contain asbestos.
Once the siding is cut, you'll be able to remove the old siding and the old windows easily. When you put the new windows in, you'll center the window on the line you just cut so that your 2" brickmould trim will fit. Don't forget to put a dripcap behind the building paper on top, and it's a good idea to use the new peel and stick membranes to seal your new nailing fin to the house.
Once the windows are in, you'll need to figure out what you need for interior trim. It will involve making an extension jamb, which I like to make the same size as the window. The extension jamb can get nailed together, shimmed in place, and nailed to the rough opening. Hopefully your casing will cover the old paint lines if the window got ordered the correct size. (should be the same as the exterior measurements on your current aluminum window).
They will not be flush with the siding, nor with the interior wall when they are installed, because it just doesn't work that way. The window will stick out past the nailing fin, and the nailing fin will need to be covered with trim (brickmould or similar) and be either painted or covered with aluminum trim coil.
As far as getting the old windows out, I would wait until you have the new windows, then measure the new window (let's say it's 48" wide x 36" tall) so I'd imagine where the trim would be going... (if you'll use brickmould trim- 2 1/8" from each side of the window once it's installed) so I'd mark a pencil line on the siding that is 52 1/4" wide, 40 1/4" tall, and cut it with a grinder and diamond cutting wheel while having a helper hold a garden hose while I cut to keep the dust down. I always assume the siding is asbestos and take precautions- even though some of it is cement (slate) and does not contain asbestos.
Once the siding is cut, you'll be able to remove the old siding and the old windows easily. When you put the new windows in, you'll center the window on the line you just cut so that your 2" brickmould trim will fit. Don't forget to put a dripcap behind the building paper on top, and it's a good idea to use the new peel and stick membranes to seal your new nailing fin to the house.
Once the windows are in, you'll need to figure out what you need for interior trim. It will involve making an extension jamb, which I like to make the same size as the window. The extension jamb can get nailed together, shimmed in place, and nailed to the rough opening. Hopefully your casing will cover the old paint lines if the window got ordered the correct size. (should be the same as the exterior measurements on your current aluminum window).