I need to install an aluminum retrofit window in an existing aluminum frame. There is currently a “storefront” style fixed pane picture window with a simple aluminum extruded frame and a single pane of plate glass. I’m replacing the plate glass with an aluminum operable double glazed unit, 108″ x 54″. There are other windows on the house that have been similarly retrofit.
A couple of issues. The existing frame is natural aluminum, but to match the newer windows, the new unit is bronze anodized, so I’ll need to paint the existing (old) frame black to match. I also would like advice on the best caulk/sealant to use, as well as mounting details.
I have the retrofit unit already. Here’s my plan.
1) Remove the glass- this a single sheet of untempered (I think 3/8″ thick, maybe 1/4″) glass, 9′ x 54″. To do this, my understanding is I need to remove the thick bead of caulk at the frame/ glass joint inside and out, then, then the existing frame snaps open at the bottom outsise, and there are ‘clips’ that the glass rests on- remove the clips, lower the glass to clear the top channel, then slide it to one side to clear one side channel, then tilt it out- right? I hope I can rent some suction cup handles… otherwise, I guess I could just break the glass, but this seems dangerous.
2) Fit the window- the other retrofits are just secured to the existing frame w/ sheet metal screws, then caulked to the old frame. Due to exposure, I’d like to use stainless screws- will thes be OK against aluminum? What should I use for shims? Plastic? Should i spray foam any (small) gaps between the old and new frames? How about in the old ‘rabbet’ that held the glass? What’s the best sealant to use?
3) As stated, I need to paint the old frame. It seems it would be best to seal the new window to the bare metal of the old frame, then paint- if I paint the frame first, it seems like I’d have to let it really cure fully to get a good caulk bond between the paint and the new window, so I thought I’d caulk the new window to the bare metal frame, mask, then spray the old frame, inside and out. What’s the best primer/paint combination to give a durable finish on bare aluminum, black, with a full southern exposure? This is a seaside location, and the existing frame has been there for at least 10 years. Do I need to just sand it or use a chemical to remove any salt residue?
Thanks in advance for your help- you guys are always the best!
Replies
No one? Really?
Sorry
The only commercial alum framing I'm famliar with, the glass is held in with glazing bead-vinyl. Pull that out and get the suction cups and some big helper and good luck. 1/4" float is not light.
I think I understand you plan on fitting the new window on/within that tube frame? Fit it good and use either caulk from a glass supply or urethane. Tape and peel so you get a beautiful joint.
Best of luck.
This no info post of mine will help bump this up.
Thanks Rez!
A good paint store (that carries SW or BennieMoore, eg) should help you pick out a suitable paint. I'd probably brush rather than spray. Be sure to clean all surfaces before caulking/painting -- first soapy water and then alcohol or acetone. (The paint shop may have further suggestions.)
Don't try to break the glass, or if you do, be on the inside and just let it fall outside. (And wear eye protection and long sleeves, whether or not you're intending to break the glass.) I'd suggest having someone help you with the glass.
PG
I'd use plastic or rubber shims.
The rabbit, I guess you could spray foam, caulk might work if you use backer rod (if it works) first. Once you see how the channel is made up you'll figure a way to seal/divorce one side from another to help provide a thermal break.
Removal-What I've seen done-lift off the rubber blocks on the bottom-pull out. Again, this thing is going to be heavy!!
I'd break the old glass - easier to dispose of and you don't have to find suction cups.
Paint the old frame before installing the new window - I'd prime it after using one of the metal preps that you wipe on with a cloth and let sit a while before rinsing with water. Automotive and even aircraft parts are prepped like this. Then use a good quality primer and paint - look to an automotiver paint store.