Hello all,
I'm going to be replacing an existing garden window with a vinyl picture frame window.

The current window has fins nailed to the Rough Opening studs but the window does NOT enter into the rough opening. I'm sure it's not the right terminology, but it's "face mounted to RO members. On the interior, the sheetrock runs into the window opening flush with the framing since garden window doesn't come into interior at all. Access to exterior fins is not a concern. It's got trim that connects brick to window that can be easily removed and replaced.

My question is on the replacement, i'm thinking I should order a new construction window since i can utilized fins. Righto?
Other question is, since the new window will come into the opening somewhat (whatever offset from fin is), should i install it to the inside of the existing drywall or get it to fit the framed opening and remove enough drywall to allow the fins to get to the framing?

make sense? any help would be mucho appreciated.

Thx.
Marshall

 

Depending on how you want to trim the new window, I imagine that you'll want to order the new window about 3/4" smaller than the rough opening. this will allow 3/8" on each side to shim and insulate.

At least some of the drywall would likely need to be removed to allow you to insulate the window after it is installed. If insulation is not an issue, then you could certainly score the drywall and cut off just enough so that it butts up to the window once it is installed. But IMO, wood trim is usually preferable.

And yes, a window with nail fins would be preferable.