Some advice if you're thinking of replacing windows...

Just some advice if you're thinking of replacing windows.

If your existing windows are timber, then the jambs are in one line between outside and inside. This means that your window is in an opening which has the same dimensions inside your home as outside you home. Ideally you need a window which can fit into the same opening and that is either a replacement timber window, or an aluminium or PVC window which has the same proportions inside and outside (like EcoClassic's).

Why? In the Eastern states, where we use brick veneer construction, all aluminium windows have a reveal (the timber which is used to attach the window to the timber house frame). The vast majority of windows have what is called an offset reveal, and this means that the inside opening is 40mm bigger than the aluminium size going into the brick opening. Now this doesn't really matter for new homes as they can make the frame opening and brick openings different and you won't notice. But in a replacement situation, when you remove your timber window you are left with an opening which is the same size inside and outside and it is extremely difficult and costly to fit a window with an offset reveal which requires a bigger opening on the inside. You choices are limited to either having the window fit snugly in the opening inside your home and having a 40mm gap at your brickwork :C (Or lightweight construction, or weatherboard). Or you fit the window snugly into the brick opening and you must cut out and rebuild the studs on the inside:~. So look for a window with an inline reveal (standard in EcoClassic's PVC window, aluminium window and thermally broken aluminium window) and make your task easy:U.

First, measure your brick opening at several points and allow 5mm all round to make it easy to fit replacement windows - just make sure the opening is square. Then caulk the window.

If you are replacing aluminium windows with offset reveals, and you are not too fussy about energy efficiency (windows with an offset reveal suffer from a lower energy rating), then use the same brand as the replacement and it will fit into the same hole. If you use our window then you would need wider architraves to cover the extra opening from the offset reveal, but your energy rating will be better.

Ed


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