Install New Windows Without Removing Siding
It s my understanding that new construction style windows can have the nailing fins removed and installed without removing the surrounding siding and j channel.
Install new windows without removing siding. With window tape cover up all seams. Use a hammer or a drill to take out any nails or screws that are holding the window in place. For the new windows they cut off the flange from the new window. Replacing both at the same time allows your contractor to set the windows and then install the siding which can end up saving you money in the long run as well.
Nail into place either new siding ripped to size with your table saw or the existing siding if not overly damaged and install over the new window s flange to the edge of the existing siding. To the edge of the window to about 1 past the outside seam. If you find damaged or rotten wood remove it and cut new wood to replace it. My question is how can i remove the old window without taking off the siding.
I had windows done for me once professionally years ago and somehow they cut the old flange from the old window and were able to remove the window leaving the flange and without disturbing the siding. Capping a window correctly is important as this aluminum or vinyl framing helps direct water away from the frame and the interior of your walls. Fill any holes with wood filler and make sure you have solid wood where you ll screw the new window into the frame for stability. Rather than removing the siding installing the windows and re applying the siding over the flanges i am considering cutting the siding such that the opening is large enough to allow the windows to be secured directly to the framing then using 1 1 4 strips of siding over the flanges just as spacers and then applying 1 x 4 smart panel molding around the windows which would hide and overlap the strips.
If you want to fully replace with new construction windows you will have to deal with the siding. The pieces of siding being installed adjacent to the new window should be held in place marked and then cut allowing 1 4 inch of space for expansion. 1 full frame or prime replacement window where you tear out the entire existing window frames and all down to the rough stud opening and insert a whole new window with exterior frame and header and sill and all into the rough opening totally replacing the existing unit except sometimes reusing the interior trim to retain a match with other windows. Installing siding once it s been cut to.
Replacing your windows and siding concurrently allows your contractor to precisely set the capping around the window before they put the siding in place. Insert replacement windows aren t the best option in my case due to the construction of the old aluminum window frames. Replacement windows fit into the existing opening and do not require removing any siding.