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  • Installing a Glass Block Window: Remove Old Window and Cut Out Side Windows
  • From "Weekend Remodeling"
    episode WKR-112
    advertisement

    Click here to view a larger image.

    In this segment, host Fuad Reveiz removes the old window.

    Click here to view a larger image.

    Figure A

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    Figure B

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    Figure C

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    Figure D

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    Figure E


    Prep Work, Remove Window Sill and Cut Out Interior Side Holes = 3 hours
    Remove Old Window and Cut Out Side Windows = 4 hours
    Build New Frames and Set Glass Blocks = 5 hours
    Exterior and Interior Trim = 4 hours
    Total time spent on project = 16 hours over 2-1/2 days

    On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the hardest, this project is a level 3.

    We spent approximately $600 for supplies; a contractor would charge around $1,500.

    Materials:

    Scaffolding (rented)
    Utility knife
    Flat pry bar
    Hammer
    Level
    Key hole saw
    Speed square
    Cats paw
    2 x 4's
    2-1/2" wood screws
    1 x 6 pine
    2-1/2" finish nails
    Glass blocks
    Framing for glass blocks
    Mortar for glass blocks
    Spacers
    White or clear silicone sealant
    Panel anchors
    Trowel
    Mortar pan
    Drill, driver and bits
    Tin snips
    Measuring tape
    2-1/4" case molding
    Caulk and caulking gun
    Paint and brushes

    1. Remove the vinyl "J channel" around all 4 sides of the window. You will not be using this again, so don't worry about breaking it.

    2. If the window edging is nailed to the house, you need to remove the nails all the way around the perimeter. Use a cats paw to work out the nails.

      Note: This is not an easy task because the vinyl siding makes it difficult to get to the nails (figure A). If you tear the vinyl, it will create a lot of repair work.

    3. When all the nails are removed, take out the window.

    4. Back inside, use a speed square to transfer the corners of the interior opening to the back of the sheeting.

    5. Use a drill to mark the holes in the vinyl siding on the outside (figure B).

    6. Use a level and draw lines on the siding connecting the holes and then use a utility knife to cut the vinyl siding away (figure C).

      Expert Tip: Some vinyl siding colors and styles may be difficult or impossible to manage, so work carefully during the demolition phase of any project that involves vinyl siding.

    7. Drill out starter holes with a paddle bit (figure D).

    8. Cut the sheeting with a reciprocal saw, cutting from point to point and then take the window out. Trim away any rough edges (figure E).

      Expert Tip: Whenever you cut through an exterior wall, make sure any vapor barriers and insulation are still intact before you close the hole or otherwise limit your access.



    RESOURCES :
    Taunton's Build Like a Pro: Windows and Doors: Expert Advice From Start to Finish (Build Like a Pro)
    ISBN: 1561584835
    Author: Scott McBride
    Order this book from Amazon.com.
    The Taunton Press Inc.
    Website: www.taunton.com

    Glass Block Materials (Pittsburgh Corning Corp.)


    Pittsburgh Corning Corporation
    Pittsburgh, PA 15239
    Phone: 724-327-6100
    Fax: 724-325-9704
    Website: www.pittsburghcorning.com

    The Complete Guide to Doors and Windows
    Model: 1589230450
    Author: Tom Lemmer
    (August 2002)
    Order this book from Amazon.com.
    Creative Publishing International, Inc.
    Website: www.creativepub.com

    Great Windows and Doors: A Step-by-Step Guide
    Model: 0806956038
    Author: Rick Peters
    (June 2001)
    Order this book from Amazon.com.
    Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
    Website: www.sterlingpub.com

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