My existing basement sliders are in a steel frame, I can remove glass and slide channels. I want to upgrade with vinyl clad high efficiency unit. Any special considerations for this installation?

 

shajotar,

First, welcome to DoItYourself.com and the Window forum.

Nothing out of the ordinary for replacing those windows -- but then I've don it several thousand times!!

Order the new window to fit inside the steel frame. Measure the actual opening of the frame, then deduct 1/2" from the width, and 1/4" from the height. When you order the window, MAKE SURE you specify that this is the ACTUAL SIZE that you want it to be. Otherwise, the glass shop will reduce it that much again!

Steel window frames -- what are the walls made of?? I'm guessing they are probably concrete or concrete blocks, since this is a basement wall. If so, use 3" Tapcaon screws to install the window with. Drill a hole through the new window fram and use a masonary bit the proper size to drill a hole in the wall deep enough for the Tapcons. You'll need one on each side near the top (about 3" down from the header) and one on each side near the bottom (about 3" up from the sill.)

I would order the window with the exterior trim molded on right at the factory, then cut that back as needed so that you can seal the trim right to the steel frame. (Vinyl is cut with a circular saw and a plywood blade that is turned BACKWARDS!! Works like a charm -- wear ear protection!!)