Replacing Aluminum Windows with Vinyl Windows on Brick house

Hi All , I am a newbie to this forum, but not new to the hime imporvement arena. I am open to all with good input on how to tackle this task on hand..

Click here for picture

That is a sketch of what my window situtation currently looks like, Several questions arise and causing me headaches when I THINK about how to do this...

Questions that I have....

1. After removing the sheet rock, how is the best way to remove the old frame and windows.

2. Once the OLD frame and windows are removed, where exactly does the new window go.

3. When viewing the link, does the new window fin go on the the inside (rightside) or outside (Leftside) of the the 2x4 stud?

4. Should I just hire someone to replace the windows, and go broke...?

Thanks
Rocky

 

Replacing aluminum windows in a brick home is one of the most difficult installations there is. Just getting the windows out is a pain in the neck. Putting the new window in isn't much easier. I'd suggest you get some estimates.

 

I've helped my dad do this on his house. He used new constuction windows with a nail flange for a bonus challenge.

To answer your questions from what I saw (assuming your house is just like my dad's 1950's suburban Chicago ranch)

1) No need to remove sheetrock if the new window is the same size. Due to the air gap between the bricks and the ext. sheating, your window's nail flange is likely nailed into a 1x4 or 1x6 that's nailed to the studs on the outside of the sheathing. To get this out, you could A) chip out the bricks to access the flange, or B) sawzall the flange. Neither is easy.

2) The new window has to be far enough out to connect with the exterior brick and sill (do you have limestone or a series of bricks as the sill?). Hence, the 1x4s used for the old window.

3) See #2. Goes on the outside. You may consider a replacement window that has no flange. If your new window has a flange, then you choose A) for #1.

4) Chances are the personal effort is worth $300-$400/window in labor to you. It can be done, but I don't know how I could do it without being able to or knowing someone who could do the masonary work.

 

After wrecking my brain, I was able to find replacement windows at the Local Lowe's...(Not an Advertisement)...

Here

Hopes this helps anyone else, that Is running into this problem. This weekend, I'll be doing my first window. I'll take some before and after shots so everyone can see, with some research it Home improvements can be fun and easy...

Rocky

 

The link didn't work for me, probably because my browser is programmed for the Lowe's in Indianapolis. It bounced me to the general Pella new construction tilt-sash double hungs.

Can't go wrong with Pella. Some of the $$$ you're paying is going towards the name, but I have yet to hear anyone say they had a bad experience with their windows. I'm partial to the wood-clad casements myself (Proline and Architect).

If you're buying a stock-size, new construction window with a flange, I hope the size is compatible with the old window it's replacing, and you're not scared about chipping out brick. I'm sure one the experts knows a trick to slide the flange in there, but I don't.

Good luck and have fun.

 

You might want to do some additonal DIY research on internet to determine if you want to take on such a DIY project. Replacement windows are needed and it must be a DIY project with which you feel comfortable. It's a matter of whether you want to do the project yourself or hire someone. Get several bids and do some research to determine if you are not up to the project.

I have lived in homes that had Pella windows and I loved them. I especially loved the crank out ones because they were so easy to clean. I could crank them out for a fresh breeze or remove screens and clean both sides with no problems.

If you can find windows that are an exact fit without going to custom, then you have most of your stress over. Then, you need to decide if you want to take on a DIY project or hire a contractor. If you go that route, get several estimates & make sure they are licensed and insured.

You can purchase prehung windows that fit your opening. If not square you will need to shim. Trim will tend to camouflage any discrepancies.

If you don't feel up to this project as a DIYer, then do some research and hire the best local contractor in your area.

 

Well, what's the verdict? did you give it a shot, how did it go and ultimately what does it look like both inside and outside as the finished product?

Most of these jobs do not have a step by step instruction booklet, at least mine never do. Usually everything is based of experience, imagination/creativity, and having the correct tools and knowledge to implement the plan...this my freinds is why we get paid the money we do since many of these DIY projects will turn against average homeowners with brand new hammer and skill saw in a hurry

 

Well after 3-4 hrs per window, which I done 2 of them so far. Here is the outside of the first one I Done. Here

and from the inside here

The rest of the windows are all custom order, because of the sizes....next time I do one, I'll take step by step photos if any one is interested...

Rocky