New shed, replacement windows?

I will be starting to build a 12x20' shed this weekend. As a somewhat last minute idea, I decided to add in a couple windows. Wanting to modify my drawings for the design and be ready to start framing, I naturally wanted to know what size windows I would be using ASAP.

A local lumber yard had a sale on windows, so I went down to see what they had to offer. I explained I was building a shed and looking for two windows in the range of 3' square - that anything in that general size would be fine since I will build the openings to suit. What he sold me was two 36x35" JeldWen windows, model DF1303 (Wood framed window with vinyl capping on outside). Being a novice with windows I didn't think anything of it until I noticed some other windows on new homes being built in the area - this is when I realized (after looking online) that the windows I bought are replacement windows rather than new construction windows with a nailing fin (which would obviously be better since this is new construction).

Question - I am sure that these windows can be installed, but is it silly to install replacement windows for a new construction project? What extra work would there be, if any, and what drawbacks may there be to doing this? Should I just return the windows and get NC ones? I'm no expert, but it seems NC windows would be easier to install, as well as offer better water protection.

I did inquire today and the guy on the phone (who I am pretty sure was the guy who sold them to me) said it isn't a problem, and that NC windows are more money. He said all you have to do is foam insulate between the window frame and RO, then mate your J-mould for the siding up to the sides and seal the gap with silicone. Is any of this accurate? Most installtion guides I have read in the last few days are much more complicated. I am suspicious that he is just trying to prevent a return since he sold me windows that were not ideal for my project.

Keep in mind this is only a shed, so air tight seals are not a concern, but I naturally do not want water leakage to slowly destroy my framing. I would prefer to avoid any wood exterior framing on the window - I went with a vinyl exterior to limit maintenance.

 

The windows you have don't have a sill, nor a frame, so you would have to build them in prior to installation of the window. The water has to go somewhere. I would return the replacements and spend a little more for the ones with a nailing fin. Makes it so much easier to install. Don't forget the flange tape to seal them up. I know it is a shed, but doing it right will make you a happier camper later on. You may have to sleep in it one day!

 

I'm not completely up on my window terminology yet, but it does have a complete frame - at least what I would call a frame that borders the window. The sill area doesn't stick out, but it is vinyl capped similar to what you see in diagram 1 here:

http://www.jeld-wen.com/_pdf/resources/installation/JII013.pdf

What the dealer told me does theoretically make sense and would work, but I just get the feeling it is no the best way to install a window.

On a side note - why is it so hard to find a plain window? All I wanted was a vinyl single pane fixed window, but no such luck...

 

Kevin: you do have a complete window, although it is not a good ol' standard window with a sill, etc.
I just completed my third porch remodel involving similar Jeld-Wen windows, but 10' wide and 5' high. You can see how they look by going to www.chandlerscarpentry.com and clicking on projects one. (As a disclaimer, no advertising or solicitation is intended by referring to this site). They had the brick mold installed on the models where I was using hard siding, and vinyl j channel on the one using vinyl siding. The instructions on the pdf file you referred to give good installation techniques. The bottom sill pan is most important to keep out water infiltration. If you bought the window with your correct jamb extension size, all you will have to do is install interior trim, but if you didn't, you will have to make your own jamb extensions.

 

First off - beautiful job on that porch remodel!

Is it safe to assume that I do not need to worry about the jamb extension size if I am not finishing off the interior of the building at all? It is a shed and all the inside walls will be left as open studding so I am not concerned with interior appearance. I am assuming the jamb extension is purely cosmetic.

Thanks for the help - I really appreciate it!

 

Why not simply use storm windows. They're less expensive, easy to install (surface mount with caulking) and will serve the purpose for a shed. The ideal window would be a Jalousie or Awning window since they could be left open for ventilation without rain coming in.

 

Good point johnam - they should be perfect for what I need. I will have to inquire about storm windows at some of the local stores. They have got to have something, and they should be a lot less than the $150CDN ones I currently have.

 

First of all, I am not sure were you bought the window but I think the saleperson was misleading about n/c windows being more expensive. Replacement windows are made to fit in an existing hole. N/c are already made and you make the hole to fit the window so n/c are always cheaper. Now to get to your question. And i know I am a few days late so it may be to late. I would go get a n/c window at Home Depot or Lowes if it just for a shed if your not planning on heating or cooling and it would be a n/c because it is alot eaier to dry in. Plus being a replacement window contractor I know that the idea of a replacement winoow is for an upgrade to a builder grade window which would be fien in your case I am sure and probably save you some $$$$$$You screw in the flange and dry in with siding. There are some knowledgeable people at the hardware store but most are jsut salesmen. hope all works out for ya