Replacement windows

[fsiej]

How do you replace windows when the outside wall of the window is all brick? Can it be done without tearing out the brick and I'm just not seeing it? The other ones are so easy that I feel like I'm missing something that's very simple when looking at these.

[Rich]

Depending on your window material (aluminum, vinyl, wood) you can cut the installation flanges and get no-flanged windows for replacement. You then install through the sides of the windows into the framing - the mfg will provide you with a strip that will cover the installation screws in most cases.

[fsiej]

Thanks Rich. That's a relief to know that I will not have to tear out brick and rebuild/put them back when finished. I knew there had to be an easier way. Thanks so much!

[roger g]

Just be aware that there are different ways of replacing windows. One way (and this is the way to do it fast and cheap) is to just remove the inside glass frame and leave the existing outside frame attached to the studs walls and you put your new window into what is left of your old frame. The problem with this and it's the reason I don't like it is that you end up with 2 frames. The old one which you have to cover or paint plus the new one. The reason a window is in place is because you want to see outside. To do this you must have glass, right? The more glass the better right? Sooooooo when you use the double frame method you usually end up with much less glass than you started with. Frames are better insulated and work better but are thicker. All I'm saying is that you look and measure how much glass you have now and then figure how much glass your new one gives you. Remember....GLASS not frame. People seem to forget the reason for having a window. First is to see out and secondly is to be efficient and look good.

Roger

[fsiej]

Thank you Roger. It's always good to have more than one option to ponder. You gave me a lot to think about! :)

[Rich]

Roger is the voice of reason around here. :)