Hi,
I need to replace a 60 year old casement window – it is just above grade (no well) on the weather side of the house. I’ve found a size that at my local hardware store that is just a bit small – it looks like the window will be about a half inch short on all sides.
So my question is – how should I fur that out – particularly, what sort of wood would you recommend? I could put in some pressure treated lumber, but that does shrink a bit. Should I worry about shrinkage on a 32×17″ window? Or would you recommend some other wood or approach?
Thanks,
Bob
Replies
If the window works out to be pretty close to your RO, you can screw the top of the window to the bottom of the mudsill and then mortar the window into the foundation on the sides and bottom. It is a very clean and solid installation with no appreciable wood except if you have to pad down from the top.
If the window is too small, go to a vinyl replacement window factory and have one made that's the correct size.
Does vinyl make for a good casement window? I'd have thought it would deform too much between the lack of support when opened and the pressure against the frame when closed.
I've installed many vinyl casement windows as replacements or retrofits without a hiccup. Vinyl is especially nice for basements as they are pretty impervious to water that will inevitably splash up from the ground and hit them.I don't like vinyl windows if I have a choice, but most people readily accept them as being good and don't want to pay 3X as much for a wood or aluminum clad version. For $500 and up for a DH, they might as well have me rip out the entire window and put a new cons window in and deal with the mess. ;)
Great idea, I'll give it a try. One questions though, I've never worked with mortar - is there a standard type of mortar or are there different types for different applications?
Thanks!
Bob
I just use straight portland cement right out of the bag.