Doors and Windows - windows
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12-26-01, 02:13 PM
I am a beginner at this do it yourself stuff. I was thinking about putting in new windows. I have a stucco house and everyone I've talked to said that it was very difficult to install windows with stucco. Is this true?
lefty
12-26-01, 05:01 PM
Jason, welcome to the DoItYourself forums.
First, understand that there is a difference in the term "Replace" and the term "Retrofit" when it comes to windows. To 'replace' is to remove the existing frames and have the new windows sized to fit the opening that gives you. To 'retrofit' is to remove all of the glass and mullions, but leave the existing perimeter frame in place. The new windows are sized to fit THAT opning (which will be smaller).
Since your house has stucco siding, you are looking at the very real possibility of leaks around the windows if you 'replace' them. The possibility of leaks is greatly reduced if you 'retrofit' them.
Is this something you want to tackle as one of your first 'DIY' projects? That's your call. If so, my suggestion would be to pick a small, accessable window, like a bathroom window, order one to fit it, and give it a try. To do that, find a good local glass shop, and have them come out and measure it for retrofitting. They will then order the window. Once it comes in (figure about 2 weeks), THEN the ball is in your court.
After you have done that one, you will then be able to make an 'educated' call about continuing, or calling the glass shop to finish the rest of the house.
I'm not going to encourage you or discourage you either way. I can't see the frames that are currently in your house. Some are very easy to retrofit a window into, and others are a challenge, even for a pro. If you decide to have a go at it, we will be here to help you when the time comes.
Let us know.
First, understand that there is a difference in the term "Replace" and the term "Retrofit" when it comes to windows. To 'replace' is to remove the existing frames and have the new windows sized to fit the opening that gives you. To 'retrofit' is to remove all of the glass and mullions, but leave the existing perimeter frame in place. The new windows are sized to fit THAT opning (which will be smaller).
Since your house has stucco siding, you are looking at the very real possibility of leaks around the windows if you 'replace' them. The possibility of leaks is greatly reduced if you 'retrofit' them.
Is this something you want to tackle as one of your first 'DIY' projects? That's your call. If so, my suggestion would be to pick a small, accessable window, like a bathroom window, order one to fit it, and give it a try. To do that, find a good local glass shop, and have them come out and measure it for retrofitting. They will then order the window. Once it comes in (figure about 2 weeks), THEN the ball is in your court.
After you have done that one, you will then be able to make an 'educated' call about continuing, or calling the glass shop to finish the rest of the house.
I'm not going to encourage you or discourage you either way. I can't see the frames that are currently in your house. Some are very easy to retrofit a window into, and others are a challenge, even for a pro. If you decide to have a go at it, we will be here to help you when the time comes.
Let us know.