Replacing Aluminum Windows With Vinyl Retrofit
Use a level square and shims to make sure the windows are plum square and level.
Replacing aluminum windows with vinyl retrofit. Aluminum windows have an extremely long life and are highly resistant to outside weather elements. It ll be reused in the same place. If glass area is such an issue why do people buy vinyl replacement windows. Because of their rigidity and durability aluminum windows can be configured into combinations with a large glazing area for maximum views.
The flush fin or retrofit lip will act as a stop to hold the window in place. Here s a summary of the steps for replacing windows. Retrofit windows make it possible to fit new vinyl windows in much older style aluminum frames. Anybody who is competent at diy and has the right tools and materials available will be able to install retrofit windows easily.
Two reasons first vinyl replacement windows are typically the least costly of any replacement window frame type and secondly vinyl window frames are considered the most energy efficient especially when compared to their wood and aluminum counterparts. Replacement windows also referred to as retrofit windows have been developed so a contractor does not have to remove the exterior materials of the home in order to install the window. Then you and a helper set the bottom of the vinyl window onto the old aluminum bottom track and raise it into position. Install new vinyl windows in each opening.
Remove and save the inside stop. They are measured to fit in an existing window opening and will only replace the actual window itself. Drive screws through the window casing into the framing around the opening to secure the new windows. After removing the old panels you want to run a heavy bead of caulk on the face of the old aluminum frame that you left in place.
This means you can benefit from the energy efficiency without needing to fit new window frames. They beautifully accentuate the clean thin lines of contemporary design. The newly installed simonton vinyl windows are a dramatic improvement over the corroded aluminum windows.