Hello all,
I'm looking to replace three small windows (2-24x36 and 1 36/36).

I've taken off the interior trim/casing and am to rough opening. Exterior is brick veneer. Current windows are aluminum double pane. I'm thinking to remove, just collapse frames and tear out.

ON the install, is it customary and / or acceptable to use new construction windows and just remove the nailing fins, place in ROpening, shim, and screw in through frames of windows? [like what you'd do with a pre hung door].

Reason i'm even looking at this route is because the local stores stock some new construction vinyl but not replacement vinyl windows.

Let me know what ya think.

Thanks
Marshall

 

Sure, it would be acceptable to remove the fins, shim, and screw through the sides. In fact you don't have much choice since it'a a metal window in a brick opening. I would add however two more steps that you didn't mention. Normally the fins aid in preventing water and air infiltration. Now that they would be eliminated, to avoid water infiltration I would line the rough opening sill plate with a panning system or flashing tape to "waterproof" the sill plate going up several inches on the left and right of the opening. The tape typically costs maybe $25 for a 150' roll. Then after installation I'd use a non-expanding insulating foam to seal the gap between the window and the rough opening. Since you will no longer have fins (and water does get behing the brick), installing and sealing the window in this way will not allow water to get through the gap in the rough opening. If any water runs down the window and makes contact with the rough opening sill plate, it would weep out because it can not soak into the "waterproofed" sill and can not back into the home because of the foam insulation that is plugging the gap.

 

Replacement vinyl windows would be the way I would go. You may have to wait 2-3 weeks to get them in, but I feel certain your supplier can order them. You can get them with the jamb size you need. Should be very little cost difference and you'll get something made to fit the RO you have. A lot less hassle...