Replacing Aluminum Frame Windows
One great way to update the look of your home is by replacing old aluminum window frames. These units, popular in the 1970s and 80s tend to make a home look very dated today. They also suffer from yellowing, cracking, and dulling due to scratches and exposure to the elements. Choosing a more modern window frame will give your home a completely new appearance. There is no need to hire a contractor to replace these units. The project is a fairly simple DIY task that can be completed in about one weekend. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure Screws or nails Drill or hammer Wooden shims Sandpaper Paint Paintbrush Trim kits
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Instructions
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Measure the existing opening from flange to flange. Keep the window in place while you do this, as it will likely take a few weeks to get the replacement unit. After all, you don't want a hole in your house while you wait.
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Order your new unit. Give the supplier the measurements you determined and they will deduct about 1/4" all around to account for flanges and framing irregularities.
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Remove the old window. Typically, these are held in place by nails or screws in the top and bottom jambs. You will have to be inside the house to remove them, but to reduce mess, push them outside once they are removed.
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Place the new window into the opening. Use a level to check for plumbness. If spacing is not equal on all four sides of the unit, use wooden shims to level it out.
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Nail the unit in place by hammering nails through the nailing flanges on the top and bottom jambs. Use long enough nails to penetrate the wooden framing sections to ensure the window is secure.
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Patch and sand the drywall framing inside the home as required. You may need to do a bit of touchup painting around the window frame.
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Install any trim kits or cornices as desired.
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- Photo Credit Wiki Commons
