Replies

1. 
   Hudson Valley Carpenter | Apr 02, 2008 08:43pm | #1

   What are the old windows made of?  If they are typical wood frame, you'll only have to remove the sash...the inside frames which hold the glass.  The replacement units will be made to fit in that opening. 

   I installed vinyl replacement windows made by http://www.milgard.com .  It was a pretty simple job, something that any DIYer with some basic knowledge and skills could handle.  It's a perfect spare time job because you can work slowly, remove the old sash and install the new units, one by one. 

   
   

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   Edited 4/2/2008 1:45 pm by Hudson Valley Carpenter

1. 
   MBaybut | Apr 02, 2008 09:39pm | #3

   HVC,
   Thanks, the old windows are Ali. Tried to justify buying an angle grinder, but probably not needed here. Your right in it being a spare time job. Once I've got one done the others should be a breeze.
   Thanks again,
   Mike

2. 
   Dave45 | Apr 02, 2008 09:24pm | #2

   I haven't removed stucco from concrete blocks, but I've done several dozen window replacements on houses with stucco over wood framing.  Most of those windows were aluminum framed, single glazed being replaced with vinyl, double glazed, units.

   I use an air chisel to break the stucco back 4" - 6"  all around the window then remove the window.  I re-flash everything, install the new window, and re-work the wire mesh.  Then, I replace the broken stucco.  I like to use a stucco patch material that has some "give" to it and I rarely see any cracking where the new stucco meets the old.

   I don't try to cut the old stucco since a ragged edge is easier to patch so that it's less obvious that it's been patched.

   I think that you should be able to use an air chisel, but I would take it slow so that you don't break the concrete blocks.

3. 
   florida | Apr 03, 2008 02:13am | #4

   We don't remove the stucco unless we have to and in most cases we don't. We cut the frame with a Sawzall and then pry the whole window out. Usually, the new one will go right in. In a few cases we chip the stucco off one side. Now, if you're installing impact windows it's a whole new ballgame.

1. 
   MBaybut | Apr 03, 2008 04:09pm | #7

   Florida,
   I live in W. FL. So I will be upgrading to impact windows. What special consideration in the installation would that involve?
   Mike

4. 
   laumonster4 | Apr 03, 2008 06:36am | #5

   I don't recommend using a grinder/diamond blade combo. You end up at best with a nice smooth edge ,the new stucco patch wont like ( I call it cold fusion cracks) The new stucco patch will always ghost the cut out. Also you risk cutting through the wire and the paper .

    I have used a pneumatic chisel , but they are a real mess ,the air blows that stucco dust everywhere and those damn springs always break. I use a roto hammer with a chisel bit, like a bosch bulldog , or a makita power scraper. Trust me it's the best way to go. Rent one if you have to. you'll be able to bust out what you need to,all the while saving the wire ,and hell ...if you do it right the paper will be in tact too. I would still recommend new flashing and PL or Sikaflex polyurethane sealant.

    good luck,

5. 
   IdahoDon | Apr 03, 2008 06:43am | #6

   I like a diamond blade because it works quickly.  I don't know that the cracking involved with an air chisel is worth the rough edge.  Cracks suck water.  Our stucco guys use a bonding liquid on the old stucco before patching the area and it rarely cracks.  Be careful to retain any felt under the old stucco in tact and  (only on wood frames?).

    

   Beer was created so carpenters wouldn't rule the world.