FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

Making a fixed window from thermopane

Biff_Loman | Posted in Construction Techniques on March 24, 2008 04:11am

So, let’s say I could score a bunch of insulated glass, that is to say, sealed thermopanes.  How would I go about making that into a fixed window? 

When it comes to the exteriors of houses, I have no experience.  Zilch, zip, nada, big fat goose egg. . .  All I know is something about thinking like a raindrop.  This is for an outbuilding, though, and a hypothetical one at that.

I might start off by dadoing some 1x pine to accept my thermopane.  So far, so good: I’d have a wooden frame with glass in it.  Never having installed any windows, ever, I’m kind of stalled at that point.

I imagine the sill of window frame would have to slope to reject water.  I’m not certain how to do that effectively.  And it would have to be flashed on top so that water wouldn’t run onto the window frame and then into my wall.  That’s logical. 

The window would also have to be cased on the outside, and then I guess I’d just butt the siding up against the casing.  Am I on the right track, here?   

 

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. DanH | Mar 24, 2008 04:25am | #1

    You've got the general idea.  It can be as simple as a basic rectangular frame with stops fastened on either side of the pane, or you can dado a groove and assemble the frame around the pane.  At least the bottom horizontal member should be angled downward to shed water (either by angling the board or by cutting it into a wedge shape), but you still have to rely on caulk/glazing compound in the bottom joint to keep water out of the frame.

    There are several ways to do the siding-casing joint, but I favor the simple butt joint. caulked, with something like peel-and-stick flashing behind.

    If your view never changes you're following the wrong leader
  2. RedfordHenry | Mar 24, 2008 04:56am | #2

    Think about building sashes first, that is, surrounding your glass with a simple frame.  Then think about a window "unit" into which the sash would be installed.  The window unit would be comprised of side and top jambs and a sill.  This way, if you ever need to repair some glass, you can simply remove the sash.  Some windows have exterior casing already applied, some don't.  For your case, applied casing would probably be more than adequate.

    Building a window and installing it properly can be lengthy discussions.  Look up articles in JLC by Carl Hagstrom for installation/flashing tips.  His advice is excellent, and is especially good for someone who is about to do this for the first time.

  3. User avater
    McDesign | Mar 24, 2008 05:08am | #3

    Don't dado the boards - you need to be able to get the glass out.

    I made these seven last week; not much time in them at all.   The glass panes are mounted from the inside, with weep holes at the bottom - I could do this because it is a basement and synthetic material.

    http://forums.taunton.com/tp-breaktime/messages?msg=102108.1

    Super easy to do with a table saw.  I used a steep (15º) sill angle.

    Forrest



    Edited 3/24/2008 6:44 am ET by McDesign

  4. DougU | Mar 24, 2008 07:50am | #4

    Bill

    We build a lot of doors and windows with fixed glass.

    You seam like you have the general idea. One thing to also consider is the caulk that you imbed your window in. I don't know the product name right now but I can get it, its specifically for windows, stick stuff that will not dry out or harden.

    Then you can just put window stop on the inside.

    Doug

  5. IamtheWalrus | Mar 24, 2008 08:58am | #5

    I'd run some sort of a search here on BT on the subject. There was

    recently a good thread on this exact topic. It talked about properly

    supporting the glass with a flexible shim. Also about not using certain

    caulks(I think silicone)because of the off gassing affecting the seal

    between the panes. If I'm back on at a better time I'll try to dig it

    up.

    Good Luck

  6. IamtheWalrus | Mar 24, 2008 09:08am | #6

    Having conquered my laziness for a brief moment, I ran a search for the

    thread I was thinking of but I don't yet know how to link it, but it's

    100263.1(the number of the first message,from DoRight) nonetheless.

    Maybe it'll be of help.

    1. User avater
      IMERC | Mar 24, 2008 09:13am | #7

      high lite the # and copy/paste....

      100263.1

      or right click...

      copy shortcut... then paste...

       http://forums.taunton.com/tp-breaktime/messages?msg=100263.1 

      Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming<!----><!----><!---->

      WOW!!! What a Ride!Forget the primal scream, just ROAR!!!

  7. tab1 | Mar 24, 2008 04:01pm | #8

    Good pics of the process, in FHB article, many years ago.

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

Versatile Vise

The IQ Vise has angled jaws, a simple locking mechanism, and solid holding power.

Featured Video

Builder’s Advocate: An Interview With Viewrail

Learn more about affordable, modern floating stairs, from design to manufacturing to installation.

Related Stories

  • Podcast Episode 692: Introduction to Trade Work, Embodied Carbon, and Envelope Improvements
  • FHB Podcast Segment: Embodied Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Building Codes
  • Old Boots Learn New Tricks
  • Install Denim Insulation Like a Pro

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2025
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data