Every home needs maintenance, and one important factor to make your home well insulated is to replace window frames on time. Here, we'll discuss what to consider when changing window frames and provide useful tips for DIY projects.
Window Frame: Different Materials
Before walking through the DIY tips, it's a good idea to know the different types of materials used in window frames, as the first step in changing window frames is to know the materials.
Overall, window frames come in four materials: fiberglass, wood, aluminum, and vinyl. Let's learn a bit more about these materials.
Wood
Wood has been the most popular material for window frames. Homeowners opt for wood window frames due to their intrinsic visual appeal and versatile styling options. But wood frames require more maintenance than other styles, and you need to repair or re-stain them on a regular basis. This routine maintenance protects them from rotting.
Vinyl
Vinyl window frames are made of the same PVC materials used in pipes and fittings. Vinyl is not only a good insulator but also fits almost all window styles. Vinyl window frames are an ideal option for those homeowners who are looking for a budget-conscious solution rather than an aesthetic statement.
The significant disadvantages of vinyl window frames are that they're not as strong and durable as other window frame options. But they're the least expensive option among all four materials and provide a look similar to fiberglass at a fraction of the cost.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass window frames are the strongest material against temperature fluctuation. Fiberglass and glass change their size almost the same amount when they get hot or cold. This means fiberglass remains strong and resists breaking, even in extreme weather conditions such as scorching summers or freezing winters. Moreover, fiberglass is naturally well-insulated and perfectly minimizes heat transfer.
The biggest disadvantage of fiberglass window frames is their dull appearance if they're not painted. Overall, the visual appeal of fiberglass is similar to vinyl, and because vinyl is less expensive, most homeowners opt for vinyl rather than fiberglass.
Lastly, fiberglass window frames are less expensive compared to aluminum or wood frame but costlier than vinyl window frame.
Aluminum
Aluminum window frames are a popular option nowadays thanks to their durability, lightweight, and low maintenance. They won't crack, peel, warp, or bend, and their sleekness complements modern home styles.
The main drawback of aluminum window frames is their tendency to conduct heat, making them poor insulators. To address this, a 'thermal break' can be added between the inside and outside of the aluminum frame to improve insulation.
In terms of price, aluminum frames are more expensive than fiberglass or vinyl but less costly than wood.
Now that we have a good understanding of the different materials used for window frames, it’s time to return to our main topic: changing window frames on our own.
1. Precisely Measure
When it comes to window frame replacement, the most essential point is to know the exact dimension of the current window frame. To save enough space for the new frame to fit, measure the frame and then subtract 5 to 10 mm from the measured dimensions. We also recommend measuring a bit wider, as you can fill the space with extra insulation materials.
2. Window Frame Replacement
When replacing a window frame, it's always a good idea to have someone with you to help carry the window away.
The first step in the process is removing the existing window. You may need a Stanley knife to carefully cut the window out of the frame. Once that's done, the next step is to make a saw cut in the existing frame. This allows you to remove its various pieces. For this task, you can use a reciprocating saw, handsaw, hammer, or chisel, depending on what you have available.
After completing the saw cuts, use the space created to insert a crowbar. A crowbar is a sturdy metal tool designed for prying or lifting objects. With the crowbar in place, gently and carefully pull the pieces of the frame apart one at a time. Continue this process until the entire frame is loosened and can be fully removed. It’s crucial to take your time and work with care to avoid causing damage to the frame or surrounding areas.
Finally, once the old frame is removed, make sure to tidy up the wall and surrounding area before proceeding to install the new window frame. Following these steps methodically will help ensure a smooth and successful replacement process.
- Make sure the wall where the frame was removed is straight and level. If any frame anchors or nails came out with the old frame, hammer them back into the wall. It's a good idea to keep any wooden strips (cavity battens) on the wall because you can use them to attach the new window frame.
- Place the new frame on the wall and check that the gap between the frame and the wall is the same everywhere. Attach the frame to the wooden strips (cavity battens) or the inside wall if needed. You only need to use screws to attach the frame to the studs (the wooden supports in the wall). Special frame screws work well for this because their heads are smaller than the screw thread.
- Seal the frame edges neatly with caulk (a waterproof sealant) so no cold air can come in through the gap. Use a caulking gun to apply the caulk precisely.
- Now that the new frame is in place, put the glass back into the frame.
Last Note
You need a professional for changing a window frame or fixing your house window? Contact us at Esnaglass. We'll cover almost all GTA, and we'll be at your location within half an hour after your first call. To know about our area services, please click on the highlighted phrase.
