Another window question
How do you install a new window into an existing window opening? Most new windows I've seen have 2 - 3 inch flanges all around the window to nail onto the side of the ply wall sheathing. Then the building paper goes on top of that, then the exterior material, ie siding, stucco, etc. Well, I'd rather not have to remove half my wall to replace a single pane window with a new vinyl double pane windwow. I'd rather remove the old window (still don't know how), and pop the new one in,without disturbing the casing, screw it in place, replace the trim, and caulk. But how? I don't see how the old window can come out (no screw holes visible) and the new windows have these flanges.
Excellent suggestions from Michael ... but don't forget that if you have a "period" style house, substituting one larger window for two small ones will change the look, and may change the style so that you have a hybrid of old and new, instead of the older and perhaps, more desirable look. Ann
Hi Laura, Are you using replacement windows, or new construction windows? New construction windows have the nailing flange on them for anchoring to the exterior sheathing when you install them. Replacement windows have no flanges, they install into the existing opening and screw into the framing through the sides of the window. As someone already mentioned you can use new constuction windows as replacements, but you are limited in sizes available. Replacement windows are custom made to the sizes you need, so they will fit into the opening without having to do a lot, if any, modifications to the existing trim. As for the side-by-side windows seperated by the 2x4, they will install basically like a single window. You remove the old one and install the new one, plumb and level it, secure it, and insulate the gap around the frams. The only difference is the trim. Most manufacturers make a special trim piece that will snap over 2x4 and lock into the frames of the two windows. This will cover the outside. If it is not available, you can cut some trim material to cover the 2x4. Prime it on both sides, cut it so it overlaps each window frame by 1/4 to 3/8 inch or so, and secure it and caulk the edges. On the inside you will have to cut some trim to fit and nail it in and paint it. It is not that hard to do, but without seeing exactly what you have, accurate advice is difficult. Best of luck to you Michael
Very close on the new construction windows. "New construction" windows are designed to be installed before vinyl siding is installed. They have the nailing flange and the J-channel needed to hide the cut ends of vinyl siding. "Replacement" windows screw into the jackstuds and generally have no nailing flange, but it's possible to special-order a replacement window with a nailing flange. In my area, a lot of contractors like using replacement windows on new buildings; they would rather put the windows in as the last thing they do, which does two things: gives them leeway as to when the windows can go in (with new construction windows, if there's a delay in getting the windows it pushes back the siding too), and keeps helpers from accidentally breaking the windows while they work on drywall or siding. Having said all that, I must add two more things. First, if you're not using vinyl siding you must use replacement windows because you need brick moulding around the windows, not J-channel, with all other sidings besides vinyl. And second, if you're using wood windows there is no new construction/replacement question: all wood windows are installed from the outside of the house and they are all cased with brick moulding. -- --jmowreader