In our previous articles, I’ve covered all the steps needed to properly replace your old wood sash windows with energy efficient vinyl windows. I told you how to measure for the new windows. We then discussed the removal of the plywood sheets and the separation cord. Finally, I told you how to install, seal, and trim vinyl replacement windows. But what if those old windows in your house are aluminum instead of wood? The process is the same? No, it is not the same at all. So, the next articles will explain the differences between replacing wooden windows versus aluminum windows.
When I discussed the proper frame style to replace wood sash windows, I explained the difference between new construction frames and replacement frames. When replacing aluminum windows, there is another option that we need to consider regarding the style of the frame. It’s called the “update” framework. Let’s review each type of chart. First of all, we have the new construction frame with the nailed end. If you choose to go this route, you must remove the exterior around each window opening, remove the nails holding the aluminum window to the studs, nail down the new vinyl window, apply flashing, caulk, and reinstall the exterior around it. each window. (I get tired just talking about it!) In addition to being a lot of work, you can run into significant problems trying to install the exterior product around each window opening. If your house has stucco, you should try to match the rest of the stucco. It can be done, but not by you. Even most professional stucco guys can’t get a perfect match. What if you have wood siding? Well, you can cut 2″ of the siding around each window to get to the nailed fin, then you can apply 1 X 2 or 1 X 3 trim around each window. Certainly not as much work as the stucco house, but probably more job that the average homeowner cares to tackle. What if every window is surrounded by bricks? Let’s not even go there! You’d have to remove the bricks and then reinstall them when you’re done.
Trust me, you don’t want to replace your old aluminum windows with new construction vinyl windows. You want to use replacement framing like that used to replace wood sash windows, or something called retrofit framing, which is popular in the west where stucco is a common exterior. Since the measurement procedure is the same regardless of the frame style chosen, this article will discuss the proper measurement procedure and future articles will explain the difference in the installation process for replacement versus upgrade.
If you look at the part of the aluminum frame that surrounds the window and opens onto the surrounding walls, you will see three separate “legs” that form two pockets. The outer leg and the center leg form the first pocket. Your screen and stationary panel will be in this pocket. The middle leg and the inner leg make up the second pocket, and your slider panel is in that pocket. Find the “leg” that is the widest on all four sides. When you measure the width, run your tape measure from the widest leg on the left to the widest leg on the right. This should be the narrowest measurement. Then subtract 3/8″ from that measurement. This is the width of the replacement window. Measure the height the same way. When you measure the height, measure as close to the center of the window as possible. This is especially important on windows wider than six feet, because the top wood header tends to sag over time, making the center of the opening the narrowest. You don’t need to deduct 3/8″ from the height like you did with the width. 1/4″ is fine. These are the dimensions you use when ordering your vinyl window. If you have bay windows (windows without a vent panel), there will only be two legs and one pocket. You still measure the same way.
Next week I will discuss if your home is a candidate for refurbished frames or replacement frames…