- How to Pick a Window?
- How to Pick a Window Company?
- Energy Saving Ideas
- Resources & Links
- Window Condensation: How to Fix Window Condensation
- How to Check and Seal Your Home Windows
Types of Window Installation
Storm Windows
Piggy-Back
Their are many disadvantages to this method, as the “easiest” route is not usually the “best”. Most existing windows that are being replaced are aluminum, a metal that conducts cold or heat very well. For that reason, you do not want this portion left in your wall cavity which will allow the cold from outside to conduct to the inside of your home. When this “cold” aluminum frame meets “warm” inside air, condensation can occur. Condensation inside your wall cavity will create mould and rot over time. In addition, your new (heavier) windows are supported by the frame of your original window rather than supporting the entire depth of your new (wider) window. As mentioned above, the dimensions of your new windows are smaller than your existing windows. This becomes an issue when replacing already small windows. In some cases, new windows cannot even be built small enough to fit, as double-paned windows have minimum sizes.
Full-Removal Using Renovation Flanges (QHI's Installation Method)
On Wood Siding
Existing windows in wood siding are cut out with a skill-saw, leaving behind only the nailing portion of the original window. This portion is on the exterior of your sheathing and not inside the framed-in window cavity. Though metal, conduction through this portion is not an issue because it is not “inside” your home.
On Stucco or Vinyl Siding
In a home cladded with stucco or vinyl siding, we remove all glass from the existing window and collapse the remaining frame using pry bars. Protective blocks are used between pry bars and the window returns/jambs, to protect them from getting dented or scratched. In this case, absolutely all of the original window is removed as the nailing portion of the original window gets pried out with the frame. Windows in stucco can also be cut out, but it is extremely dusty and expensive to purchase the appropriate diamond blades. The reason existing windows in wood siding are not typically collapsed is because wood siding is prone to splitting. Stucco and vinyl do not split.
Once the old windows are removed, your renovation/rebate flange windows are almost ready for installation. Your existing window sills and jambs are left intact unless they need replacing due to age, rot or damage. Your new window is approximately 1” smaller in height and width than your existing windows due to fitting the new windows “inside” your existing window jambs/returns. The sill is then shimmed until level. The window is foamed with a double bead of expanding foam and fastened into the cavity once squared and plumbed. The window is fastened using 3” screws through the window jamb into the walls studs.
Once the foam dries, the interior of the window is sealed with paintable flexible caulking to further improve the air seal. On the exterior, the window is sealed with a paintable, flexible exterior caulking and head flashing is installed.
The disadvantages of this method include the slightly smaller size of your new window and a bulkier looking renovation flange. Ensure you interview and choose your installers wisely for this method as properly installing and effectively flashing the head of your new window is a difficult task.
Full Removal Using a “New Construction” Window (a.k.a nail-fin flange)
After the sill of the opening is shimmed to level, the new window is inserted into the opening. The new window will be the exact dimensions of the existing window and will not have a renovation flange. The installers then repair the moisture barrier if needed and install a “new construction” head flashing. Once fastened, plumb and square, a waterproofing membrane is then applied over the nail-fin and sealed to the existing moisture barrier to prevent leaks.
To finish the exterior of the window, wood trim or stucco repair will be required. On the interior, expanding foam is applied between the window and your framing for an air-tight seal.
The benefits of this method include superior waterproofing and airtightness. Head flashings are easy to properly install, and your windows remain the exact same size. The bulkier look of the renovation flange is avoided and new interior trims enhance the look of your new windows.
The disadvantages of this method include higher installation costs and the need for trim on the exterior which is sometimes undesirable.
GRANTS ARE
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