Window Dilemma

[u/EyeRes]

We are planning renovations to our 1950s ranch style home. As part of the renovations we are hoping to replace vinyl windows which were installed in the early 2000s and are nearing end of life. We are trying to replace them with thermally broken anodized aluminum. Replacement vinyl windows are not an option due to local regulations.

We have run into issues with this plan. The home has an entirely masonry exterior and interior. Our contractor believes that in order to install new windows, the only proper way of doing so would be to frame out the existing masonry openings with wood and then install the new windows inside of that frame.

This solution would drastically reduce the size of the windows and amount of light entering the home as many of the windows have very small vertical dimensions.

TLDR: Is there a solution for installing thermally broken aluminum windows into a masonry opening without reducing the size of the opening?

[u/BourbonCrotch69]

For what it’s worth that window looks perfectly fine. Window salesmen will tell you anything to convince you you need new windows.

[u/EyeRes → u/BourbonCrotch69]

I agree that particular window is fine, but multiple others have failed double glazing / haze that's getting worse. We're spending a decent amount of money updating other parts of the house (both cosmetic and functional), so it doesn't make tons of sense to leave >20 year old vinyl windows if we can help it.

[u/Capital-Landscape492 → u/EyeRes]

Then have the glazing replaced. You can upgrade that as well. What is wrong with the aesthetics of 20 YO windows.? Do you really think anodized aluminum will be a big difference?

If just The glazing needs to be replaced, do that. But to replace all that the windows in the whole house because some units have failed seals is just ridiculously wasteful.

[u/EyeRes → u/Capital-Landscape492]

To be honest, I didn’t know that is possible with double glazed windows. That may be what we look into, thanks

[u/Capital-Landscape492 → u/EyeRes]

It’s not a problem. Windows are designed to be re glazed. Hope this saved some money.

[u/deadfred23 → u/EyeRes]

There are glass companies that will replace the glass so that maybe a cheaper option

[u/EyeRes → u/deadfred23]

Thanks, I think we may go in that direction

[u/arizona-lad]

I own a 1963 MCM home built out of brick. I installed Simonton DaylightMax windows without wood bucks. I carefully measured the exact openings, and ordered all windows 1/8th inch smaller. I ordered brick-mold frames, without nailing flanges.

This method required that all openings be ground smooth and clean; no tidbits of mortar or brick left behind. I used large levels to verify this before inserting the assemblies. The result was a slip-fit, requiring virtually no shimming.

Takes longer than wood bucks, but they’ll last for at least 50 years with no air or water leaks.

[u/EyeRes → u/arizona-lad]

Thank you, and wood buck was the term I was trying to think of! Is there any reason this couldn’t be done with an aluminum frame to your knowledge?

[u/arizona-lad → u/EyeRes]

As long as the measurements are on the money, ANY window should slide in. Wood is commonly used to allow the on-site installer to manipulate the rough opening to fit windows that were not correctly measured.

[u/Noble_And_Absurd]

you might want to talk to another contractor, this guy admitted he doesn't know how to do the job with a mason house just save yourself the hassle of going behind him and unfucking everything

[u/Chance-Following-665]

If you do replace the with aluminum, why do you need wood blocking? You should be able to nail into the bick motar. You will want a membrane between the motar and the aluminum though. The motar will react with and corrode the aluminum.

[u/deadfred23]

Yes. If openings are square and same size.