How to Install an Aluminum House Window
The two types of windows that can be used in the construction of a house or added as a replacement are vinyl and aluminum windows. An aluminum house window is glazed, has a sash and can come with a mullion if a wall is load bearing. This type of window is offered as a new construction window as well as a replacement window. Installing an aluminum house window will require following a few steps to put the new window in the wall.
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Things You'll Need
- Tape Measure
- Utility Knife
- Hammer
- Caulk or Sealant
- Scraping Tool
- Putty Knife
- Level
- Shims
Instructions
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1
Measure the size of the window opening to get the rough opening dimensions for the new window. Use a tape measure to get the distance from one edge of the drywall or wall board to the other. Get a measurement for the horizontal width as well as the vertical height.
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2
Prepare the window opening for the new window. Clear away any old insulation and scrape away dried out caulk using a scraping tool or a putty knife. Make sure to look for any old nails that may be protruding and remove them with a hammer.
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3
Place the new window on a flat surface such as a table or saw horses. The window has a metal flange that needs to be bent flat so that it can be nailed to the 2-foot by 4-foot framing. Use a caulk gun and put a bead of caulk around the flange of the window. This will seal the widow against the frame and prevent moisture.
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4
Place the window into the opening in the wall. Use shims to make sure the window is seated level in the opening. Insert the shims from the interior side between the window and the frame. Use a hammer to tap the shims into place.
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5
Use a level to determine how close to level the widow is sitting in the opening. Place the level on the front of the window along the side and on the top or middle. Adjust the window by inserting or removing shims until the bubble in the level indicates the center.
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6
Use a hammer to nail the flange to the frame. Place nails about every 4 to 6 inches around the flange.
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7
Replace the insulation that was removed on the inside of the wall. Use a can of spray foam insulation to fill in the gaps between the window and the frame. Leave enough room for the foam to expand in the gaps.
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Tips & Warnings
A new window will come in a standard size which means if the window measurement is non-standard, a custom size will need to be ordered. Cut strips of roll insulation can also be used between the window and the frame. Use a utility knife to score the shims and then break them off.
A new construction window will require removing the siding from the exterior of the house.
