installing a replacement vinyl window

[WSSix]

I really appreciate you going to all this trouble for me, Joe. Thank you.

Nothing pops out. Matter of fact, I can't even figure out how to get the screen out, lol. These are not high end windows, but they're better than the aluminum frame single pane windows they're replacing.

What about this thin channel just inside from the edge that runs all the way around the window? Are there clips that maybe go into this channel and those clips get screwed to the frame? There appear to be grooves or teeth inside that something could lock into. I saw clips mentioned in directions I was reading for Pella, but I couldn't find any other mention anywhere. A search looking for the parts didn't produce results either.




If this channel isn't anything, I believe that leaves me with two options. Build a frame around the window putting screws in through the wood into the vinyl. This would allow me to use the frame I build to secure the window to the house and level the window. My biggest concern is will the vinyl actually grip the screws and hold torque?

Or, do like you mentioned Joe and go through at the two points you identified.

[joeko23]

Yes try to pry there and see if it pops open. If not I would put the screws on the top and bottom as mentioned before.

This is a replacement window so it should be the same size as an existing window frame right? Why are you building a new frame? Also the screw gets screwed into vinyl then the existing wood frame. Not the other way around or then you’ll just have a sharp screw sticking out of the vinyl. The wood frame is supposed to hold the window not the vinyl.

[WSSix]

No, not entirely the same size. I'll need to bring in some frame pieces and make a better rough opening. The original window had a 1x4 frame built around it and it was secured on two sides, side and top, to the house. I'll close opening in with framing so I can seal the house better too. The house was built in 1969. It wouldn't surprise me if this window was original.

I'm sorry if I wasn't clear. I would make a 1x4 frame around the window and the area that protruded past the window is where I would secure the window to the frame. The window frame is maybe 2 inches thick. The frame also has voids inside so I would only go through the first layer of vinyl into the void. The tips of the screws wouldn't stick all the way through. At least, that's the idea. As I said, I'm worried the vinyl couldn't hold the torque.

I think I'm just going to go with screws in the area you suggested as I'm not finding any part that pops off the frame to hide the screws.

Thanks, Joe.

[Che70velle]

Been following this thread. We wrapped up a remodel a week ago or so that was utilizing the same windows and one of my sub guys asked me about installation. The windows were in the garage and not installed yet. Same scenario as you Trey, my sub guy was changing out his windows at home, and couldn’t figure out how to install them to save his life. Same windows...

[joeko23]

Build the new frame and attach to existing frame first. Then install the replacement window with shims. Do not screw frame to window with sharp end of screw protruding vinyl. Screw head has to be holding the vinyl.

[WSSix]

That's my plan, Joe. I appreciate your help with this.

Well Scott, I'm glad this is hopefully helping you too. I plan to try and get the window installed today. We'll see. This has definitely been fun. I'll post pictures later once it's in.

[WSSix]

Window's in now. I'll get some spray foam on it tomorrow. I thought 1 inch over for a rough opening was ok without being too much. However, I should have gone 1/2" over. Oh well, live and learn. Spray foam will fill in the gaps.

Thanks everyone!

[joeko23]

Congrats! Glad you finally got it in!