Hi all,
I am looking at putting new windows in my garage. I was hoping everyone on the boards could share some advice if they have any for me.
For starter we have a detached garage with 5 windows in it. The garage is not heated or insulated. I would like 2-3 of the new windows to have the ability to open to let a little breeze in but a non opening window would be okay in a couple of the opening.
What is everyone’s experience with ordering windows? Are the ones at the Big Box okay or would I be better off trying to look for a local window supplier and work through them. The opening are approx. 39″ wide and 20″ tall so this is not really a standard size that is on the shelf. What should I look out for when ordering a custom size?
What about quality? I don’t think they need to be anything special like double insulated or anything fancy at all they?
I would like to install them myself.
Any thoughts from anyone.
Bnaild1
Replies
What type of windows are currently installed? Fixed glass sash in a wooden frame?
Usually the easiest way to put new windows in existing window openings is to remove the sash, then install a custom replacment unit in the old frame.
http://www.milgard.com makes a good quality single hung, all vinyl (except the glass) unit which is very economical and easy to install. Check the dealer locator on that site.
Edited 7/16/2008 6:26 pm by Hudson Valley Carpenter
The most important thing (for ease of installation) is that you know what your existing rough opening size is (I am assuming that you do not wish to get into reframing the openings). If the existing windows have interior casings, remove the casing and measure the rough opening(s). Take your rough opening size to big box and show them what size holes you'd like to fill. A knowledgable salesman should be able to show you what they can offer. If you need to order custom sizes, you will need your rough opening size. Do NOT go to the big box on a weekend morning, that's when they are swamped with DIYers. Go at 2 PM on a weekday if you can, that's when you are most likely to find someone in millwork dept who doesn't have a hundred fires to put out.
You could go to a mill work shop but probably do not need to (and in your case are likely to be better served elsewhere).
With windows, you generally get what you pay for, however, you might not need a $450 Andersen Woodwright double hung. A $139 Craftmaster vinyl window may be perfectly adequate for your garage (we really don't know since we don't know what your garage looks like).
Installing a window properly does take some skill. Holler if you have any specific questions on that.
Thanks for both the replies. i will try to get some pictures of the garage posted later tonight. Currently the existing openings are boarded shut on 3 of the windows and the other 2 just have an oversized window nailed up to the inside of the opening. This is a hundred year old house and I think the garage was built sometime in the 40's. Previous owner spent all his time and money rehabbing the house and nothing has been done to the garage. I think a couple of single hung and maybe a couple of awnings type. I guess I need to get them all cleaned up to the rough openings and then see what I have got for measurements.ThanksBNAILD1