The following techniques are designed to allow proper measurement, proper removal of the old window, minimization of opening damage, proper preparation of the remaining opening, proper mounting of the new window to meet applicable codes, and proper finishing of the newly installed window in a weather tight and architecturally acceptable fashion. How to Measure Understanding how the old window was mounted will help make proper measurement possible. The diagram shows typical mounting in block and wood frame. Both utilize some form of wood “buck” either a full buck or wood pieces used to approximate the function of the “buck” which is to make amounting surface to which the window can be mounted, while allowing the ?” surrounding flange projec- tion to butt against it effecting an overlap perimeter joint.. Allowing for an approximate 1/8” to 3/16” shim space, the actual opening (hidden behind the exterior stucco and interior wallboard, sill, trim or caulk seal) up to 1” larger in height and width than the exposed window might indicate. Ordering a new window based on that assumption would create a problem putting the new window in the opening as it must be placed in the opening from the outside to allow the flange to overlap the “buck” for a proper weather seal. The AWDI method of window removal and install prescribes proper measurement as shown. Measure from the inside of the wallboard on the right to the inside edge of the wall- board on the left. Measure from the upper inside edge of the wallboard to the sill. Subtract 1/2” from the width and height dimensions, and then add 1” to each. Therefore, a measured width of 34-3/4 will result in an ordered flange tip-to-tip Width of 35-1/4” (34-3/4, minus 1/2”, plus 1”). A measure height of 56-1/8” will result in an ordered flange tip-to-tip Height of 56-5/8” (56-1/8”, minus 1/2”, plus 1”). While it may seem simpler to add to the measurements, this method allows for some adjustment for irregular situations. The 1/2” deduction is for the shimming. The 1” addition is for the flange (1/2” protrusion on all 4 sides). If, after analysis, it is obvious that the shimming is a great deal more or a great deal less, adjustment can be made. If the sill is a ?” thick stone sill, modest adjustment in the ordered Height can be made, as well. Bottom Line: The method of measurement will product the best possible chance to install the new window with a minimum of damage to the existing opening, and a minimum of repair; and allow proper weather-sealing. How to Remove the Old Window Remove any of the operating panels or sash. The exterior stucco finish must be cut back to the edge of the flange. This is possible to do with a Fein oscillating tool and a masonry blade. Carefully deter- mine where the flange edge is on all 4 sides. Using a framing square or other straight edge, cut the stucco to the flange tips on the top, bottom and sides. You should be able to get a clean cut with no damage. Next, using the Fein oscillating tool and a sealant blade, free the window on the inside from any caulked or sealed joints on the sides, top or bottom. Remove any of the operating panels or sash. Tape any remaining glass panes, and using the Fein oscil- lating tool, remove the glazing beads, glazing compound, and glazing adhesive and carefully remove the stationary glass pane(s). If there is a mullion or other separating piece, if possible use the Fein oscillating tool to cut it free from the window frame. Remove the inside sill (if any). Remove all mounting screws from the window frame. If possible, cut the side frame pieces through to release the frame from the opening. Window Fitters Guide to Window Installation 135 ©2022 AWDI, LLC Do not reproduce without permission Step 1. Remove all Frame and Glass Step 2. Remove Anchoring Screws and Cut Perimeter Seal SAMPLE MANUAL
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