Your Local Specialists for Aluminium Framed Windows

Installing aluminium windows into timber frames is a relatively simple and straightforward process. First, remove the exterior trim and caulking. Then, cut into the siding with a circular saw, revealing something called the nailing fin.

Once you’ve done this, you can remove the window from the window frame. In most cases, your new window will be deeper than your old aluminium window. When this happens, cut both the drywall and sill. Level the sill, and then apply flashing tape to the bottom of the frame.

Dry fit, and then secure the window with either wood screws or nails. Apply flashing tape to the sides and bottom, flashing to the top (Z-bar is recommended), replace the exterior trim, caulk the window, and call it a day!

These window frames can be painted, yes. However, if the proper preparations are not performed beforehand, the results can be disastrous.

Window frames need to be clear of peeling paint, debris and dirt. They also need to be “roughed up” a bit with surface prep.

Thoroughly clean the window frames then give them a sand with 100-grit or so sandpaper. Then use a tack cloth for debris.

Prime, then dry, sand any primer that bubbled, then prime and dry again. Tape up the glass areas beforehand to ensure minimal overspray.

Use only metal paint in a can. Use light sweeping motions about a foot from the window frame. Apply two to three coats of paint, letting each coat dry in between. Remove the tape and clean the overspray with a paint scraper.

Yes, changing the glass in an aluminium window can seem daunting. However, following a few quick steps can make the process relatively straightforward. Truly, the process is five simple steps.

• Step 1) Remove the frame. Determine its placement, then loosen the screws until the frame can be lifted out with the old glass still intact.
• Step 2) Remove the glass. This is the step where things can get disastrous. Loosen the screws on each corner of the frame. Hold onto the window and then use a mallet to lightly tap the frame to move it from the glass. Once loosened, pull the glass away slowly.
• Step 3) Place in the new glass. Ensure to measure correctly and be attentive to thickness for proper aluminium frame placement.
• Step 4) Note the rubber. There is a rubber rim around the old glass where it meets the aluminium. This needs to be removed from the old glass and added to the new glass. Clean it first to remove any debris.
• Step 5) Fit the frame. Slide the glass so half overhangs the end of your workspace. The aluminium frame will be two “V” shapes. Slide one of them over the glass, and use a rubber mallet to tightly tap the frame over the rubber. Repeat on the other side. Place the clips in position, and screw them in place on each corner. Then place the aluminium frame back in the window and you are done!

Aluminium windows are simple to remove, only requiring a few tools. Remove any screens and trim from around the old windows on the outside. Remove the sliding part of the window first. Tape up the glass well in case of breakage.

You then should remove the centre piece of aluminium. If there are screws on the inside edge, remove the screws and proceed. If there are no screws, the window is likely fixed with silicone, rubber or foam. Sadly, if this is the case, you will need to remove the glass and then cut out the centre bar with a reciprocating saw. Once you remove the glass, you are set.

Note: Aluminum windows have high resale value. Don’t just throw them away, as you can recoup some of your investment by selling complete, undamaged windows.

The three main window types are vinyl, wood and aluminium. Vinyl windows were developed as a less expensive alternative to aluminium. Due to their lower price, they have a significantly higher market share and can be found in most places. 

Vinyl is less expensive than other options and does have good thermal properties. However, keep in mind that framing is a small percentage of both door and window openings.

Wood windows and doors need to be painted and/or sealed to protect them from the environment. That adds to their total lifecycle cost and even with all of the maintenance effort, they can still swell, warp and crack with age. 

Aluminium windows are a solid middle ground. If you start with high-quality materials, solidly built aluminium frames and a high-quality finish you will be avoiding years of time-consuming and expensive maintenance.

Nothing beats aluminium for lasting strength through extremes of heat and cold. Dollar for dollar, aluminium is the strongest building material that can be purchased for window framing.

When you are on the lookout to replace your windows, there are many options. Aluminium windows are a wonderful choice, and a good mixture of style, durability, and affordability.

They are very customizable and attractive to a home. While they are one of the more expensive options available, many homeowners and contractors have selected aluminium windows, noting that they are well worth the cost.

Many aluminium windows can cost between $500 and $1,200 for complete installation.