Window installation basics Retro fit on stucco with aluminum frames: We at Window Solutions offer several types of window installations in Westlake Village. All must keep the elements out and meet with local and state building codes. Today we are going to cover one of the most common types of installation; stucco house and old aluminum windows. This one of the most common types of application in our area, and it all starts with a good measurement. To prepare the way for your new single or Dual pane windows westlake village home or apartment, you will need to open your old window and remove the screen. You are looking for the part of the old frame that protrudes the furthest into the opening. Starting from this point, you will measure to the same point directly across. Careful not to twist or angle your tape measure as that will give you a false measure. For width, you will want to deduct 1/2 inch from the smallest point, and for height you will deduct 1/4 inch. This is the size of your new replacement window. You will have room to adjust and shim your window with these deductions. Do not remove the old aluminum frame! This frame is tied to your original flashing under the stucco and that is what is keeping water out. The code requires we leave this original frame intact. Once your window arrives from the factory, we will call you to schedule delivery or pick up of your window. You will always want to measure the window and compare it to the size you requested prior to removing your old window. Once you have determined that the window is the correct size, you will begin to demo the old window. Typically the sliding sash will lift out and the center post will be mounted with 2 screws. Once the center post is out, with some persuasion, remove the fixed panel. There are many types of old windows and yours may be different than described. Most all of them will come apart with basic tools, but occasionally we come across the type that need to have the center post cut, and some where the glass is glued directly to the frame. All of these can be retrofitted in the same fashion, the removal process is just different. When the old window is out you will want to do a "dry fit" with the new window. At this time set the new window in the opening and press it to the house. Take notice of the fit and see if the stucco texture or any other item is causing the window to not fit snugly against the old frame. Remove any stucco or items that would cause the window to not fit tight against the frame. You may have wood surrounds on the exterior of your home. You will need to trim the retro frame to fit inside the wood. What needs to be done is a measure of the width and height inside of that wood. Most all vinyl replacement windows have guide lines on the flange to aid in the cutting of this flange. You will carefully use a razor knife to score this flange until you can bend it on your score line. We have also seen the use of trim saws and multi tools for this cutting. We use the razor knife almost exclusively. Once you have properly "dry fit" the new window you are ready for sealants. Use our structural industrial grade sealant to properly bond the window to the original frame. Generously apply the sealant to the old frame, making sure your bead of sealant is taller than the surrounding stucco. This is your primary seal and is designed to fill the back of the flange with sealant. You may have some squeeze out when you press in the new window. Drill "pilot holes" for mounting screws at this time (3/8" hole through first layer of vinyl, allowing the screw to hide below the first wall and fill hole with white vinyl plug). Place the window and use an assistant to hold inward pressure on the frame. The
assistant should follow your screw pattern as your move around the window installing screws. NO SCREWS IN THE BOTTOM OF THE WINDOW. The bottom is sealed and designed to drain water to the outside, and screws in the bottom will allow water to drain into the house. After getting the screws in the window, you are ready to start to adjust for level. If you are lucky the home will be close, and with a pry bar you can raise one side or the other to reach the level point. You will know you have the window properly adjusted when the leading edge of the sliding window is engaging perfectly even. You will close the window almost all the way, leaving a 1/8" gap, this gap should be perfectly the same top to bottom, and have no bow in the frame. All windows are flexible, so you will want to make sure you have not pulled screws to tight and bowed the new frame. Shims are used at screw locations to ensure you are not bowing the frame when sinking the screw totally. You may run into homes that are so far out of level that the 1/4" is not enough. You can achieve more room by cutting or pounding down the old aluminum frame. If this is the case you will want to notice this at the "dry fit" time, as it is very messy to remove a "wet" window. When the window is level, you will plug "pilot holes" and insulate the gap. This gap is where the old frame is hidden, and you will fill this gap with expansion foam. Use only minimally expanding foam designed for windows, as too much expansion can bow your new replacement windows in Westlake Village. Once you are happy with the adjustment, seal the exterior flange to the stucco on all four sides, leaving 2 small gaps in the bottom for potential weep. Your window is now installed and ready for trim on the interior. You can use wood or vinyl to trim this window to finish. Trim directions to follow on future segments. By Parry Annis For more information about Window installation Westlake Village visit our website.