planning for window replacement project

[Zoe]

am planning to replace two windows (single pane, aluminum frame, window panels fold sideways out for ventilation) each new window must pass new requirement for storm force winds but all big box shops in our area carry these from multiple manufacturers

house is block construction, built circa 1960-1962 and located in the deep southeast

am hoping someone can give me couple tips on how to proceed on the following

1. it's my understanding that the aluminum metal frame sits in the window opening but is covered by a small amount of cement/stucco (half inch to one inch?) all around the frame

1. if I knock out this stucco, the frame should then sit on a wood frame where it can be unscrewed and disposed of

2. assuming for the moment that my window sizes are available, the installation steps are roughly the reverse of 2 and 1

1. is it better for purchase from local "window specialist" businesses or from the big box shops (ie. lowes, home depot)

as I'm sure I'm missing something, would someone please post a couple comment. any links to websites with examples or how-to's would also be welcome.

[Joe]

Best and easiest way is to install custom sized window in your rough openings. Order what you need through any box storte as they all handle good brands. Andersen, Pella, Marvin, others will have posted installation instructions on their web sites. Read them and purchase tools you don't own before starting. Window installs are a two people job for some types, so be sure to have help on hand. First step, expose the wood framing that the new window will mount on so you have the exact rough opening. Check that the opening will be square, plumb and level and plan to make it so with glue up shims or stock removal, whatever, as necessary. The time you save by using custom ordered sizes will worth far more than trying to cobble up a window opening to fit something that happens to be in stock. If you're lucky, the builder of your palace may have used a size still currently sold. Considering the reputed quality of craftsmanship in your area you would be far better off doing much of the work yourself with casual help than employ some of the jack legs that claim to be specialists. HTH

Joe

[Zoe]

thanks, will do.

so don't even order the new custom window, until the time I have both old units down? wouldn't the rough opening size be the current cement block opening size, minus the half inch or one inch stucco on each side (4-sides)?

[ds549]

i used to put in my own windows in my rentals,but i started useing window world. they put in a 2 pane vynle with low e glass for 230.00 each. hard to buy one for that. lucas

[Oren]

Personally, I would not use a box store. Custom orders can or will become a nightmare.

Expose the inside wall / Rough Opening and measure. Make your order of windows and when they arrive and have been inspected for proper size and or damge; then remove your present window.

-- Oren

"I didn?t say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you."

[nick hull]

Another vote for window world here, they did a good job for half what others quoted

Free men own guns - www(dot)geocities(dot)com/CapitolHill/5357/

[Art]

I'd call a Pella store if there is one near you and see what they say and get an estimate from one of their approved contractors. Also read instructions on-line at Pella site. I have Andersen and Pella windows in my house. I prefer the aluminum clad pella to vinyl clad Andersen because in the Southeast the sun makes the Andersen cladding stiff after a few years.

[Art]

Window World seems to have a nice product but there are no self flashing nailing strips. They can be properly flashed without that feature but is seems a shame to leave it out.