replacing windows in a concrete "house"

I am ready to replace windows in a concrete block "guest house" that came with the property we bought. The old windows - leaky and wrecked - were aluminum single pane and just cemented into the walls. I have new vinyl double hung windows and would appreciate tips on successfully installing them. There are no frames and the windows are small, so I ordered the replacements to fit into the existing holes, which were apparently sized to avoid cutting any brick/blocks.

 

Remove the aluminum frames, which will leave you a block opening. Your vinyl single hungs should fit into that opening. Use Tapcon screws through the vinyl frame into the blocks to secure the windows in place. (You'll have to use the proper size bit to drill the holes in the block.) I would hold the vinyls back a couple of inches from the outside of the blocks, and Tapcon in some 1X2 trim on the outside of the windows, then SEAL, SEAL, SEAL!!

 

I have a brick veneer concrete block house that have steel windows I am replacing. I live in an Historic District that requires wood replacement double hung windows. The existing windows are set into the rough opening several inches. I have asked every local Home Improvement Store how to install the replacement window and nobody can give me a straight answer. Can the window just sit in the rough opening and screwed to the brick/block. One dealer said you have to install a wood frame around it. That doesn't make sense, that would change the size. Anyone have any input on this?

 

Yes you can install straight on the brick. Caulk the bottom brick and set the window in the caulking, Tap con screws are OK, but I prefer wood screws with a molly( preferably mongo ) this would require you to hammer drill the brick ( through the wood framing of the window ) Put a little bees wax on your screw ( makes it easier to install and remove if needed and less likely to break the screw ) then caulk inside and out of your window, use a construction grade caulking like 795 silicone caulking. It comes in colors to match most windows.Depending on type of weather you have and code in your area you may also need to lay some sill seal under the window. Sill seal is a Styrofoam product that comes in roles. I caulk under the sill seal and on top to unsure a good seal. sillseal will help protect the wood from getting dry rot, and helps protect metal from rusting.