I’m going to be building some awning windows(ie casement window opening upwards from bottom mounted hardware) for three different clients. I’ve got a pretty good idea of the materials I’m going to use(glass instead of plexi, cedar trim, tapcons and 2X material for the jams) but was wondering if anyone has any suggestions from doing the same project. Also, anyone have any particular favorites on the sash material? Probably will all be single pane though one might be a 4panel if it fits into the other alterations. These are all for remodeling work in older homes in extremely irregular masonry openings so I’d rather have fun in the shop doing them than ordering 5 or more different sizes of premades since there will only be about 13 total.
-Ray
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Window sash, like exterior doors, are subjected to some pretty drastic conditions - exposed to climate controlled air on one surface and wild humidity and temperature swings on the other. Whatever species of material you use, I'd highly recommend you use vertical grain stock (which swells and contracts fairly uniformly) and full mortise and tennon joints glued with an exterior epoxy. If the exterior will be painted, I'd use an oil based primer and latex top coat(s). I prefer wood stops to glazing putty for holding the glass in, too.
" I prefer wood stops to glazing putty for holding the glass in, too."
Would you still use putty for the seal or something else?
The seal. Well, I set the glass in a bead of silicone, so that seals any drafts or moisture from transmitting in, or out, around the glass. And I cover the stop to glass joint with paint, sealing that.
Is that what you mean Bill?
Yes, thanks.