Re Framing for New Windows
Square up the Frame
Now that we had the siding removed and the Tyvek wrapped around the house, I could start installing new windows. Easier said than done.
All the old windows were removed before I got started with the window framing. It seems as though each window I installed was peculliar to itself. In other words, the house was framed up almost 100 years ago and didn't have a straight stud any where.
The replacement windows were "New Construction", double pane, single hung and made of vinyl. New Construction Windows have a built in siding channel on the exterior of the window. This way you wont have to install "J" Channel when your siding goes on.
Nothing Simple
The new windows were slightly larger than the originals. Therefore I had to completely re-frame the walls to suit the new windows.
Bsaically I picked the window location and added framing around the new opening. I had to cut out the old studs to make room for a new header. The header was constructed of two 2X8's with a sheet of 1/2" OSB in between. That works out to the width of a 2X4. I tried to cut the original studs out to where the new header would fit tight underneath.
Lots of shims and 2X4's were used to straighten up the new window frame.
Once the frame work was in place, I cut the exterior boards to match the opening and added 3/4" OSB where needed.
Window Framing Tips
- Have at least two different length levels.
- I used a string line and level to ensure the windows were all at the same height.
- Build your headers on the floor then set them in place.
- Keep shims on hand.
- Use Tyvek Tape to seal the window to the Tyvek wrap.
- Allow 1/4" gap on all sides of the window framing.
- Visit Hammerzone.com for more info on window framing
Hang em Up
Now on to the fun stuff after all hard work on the framing. Hanging the new windows was easy. Simply center and level the window in the frame and nail it home. Wah-lah.
It would be a good idea to seal the window to the house by means of Tyvek Tape. That way no moisture can get in between the window and frame.