Before attempting a stucco window replacement project, consider hiring a window installation company to make the process much easier.
Choosing to replace the windows in your house isn’t a simple decision. However, if you experience high energy bills or your old windows are warping due to weather damage, then it’s straightforward. A Clearwater, Florida window and door replacement company can do the proper window installation to keep your family comfortable.
Remember the following five things before you start your window installtion process.
What techniques are used to Replace Windows in Stucco Walls?
Window installation companies will have their favored stucco installation technique. For stucco, specialists should know the potential dangers and delicacy of stucco walls. They may have their technique, or they will do one of the following methods below:
Replacing windows frequently means tearing out the stucco around them and removing the window frame, fin, and other components. Then, the new opening is re-waterproofed for another window installation. However, when this is done on a stucco wall, it is dangerous to crack the stucco and expose it to moisture. Furthermore, it can allow water infiltration issues later on. Additionally, the technique is labor-intensive and may necessitate hiring a contractor or remedying the home’s stucco.
To keep the stucco intact, consider another technique. It includes cutting down the current window frame to accommodate a replacement or retrofit window. Then, the installer places windows with a Z-bar flange over the old window frame. The advantage of this technique is that the current waterproofing and stucco are not disturbed.
2. Different Types of Window Frames for Stucco Walls
Now, you may find many types of window frames or window flanges. Pay attention, as this will determine the scope of your installation, including the amount of labor and expenses.
The replacement windows for stucco projects will either have a stucco flange or a nail flange around the frame.
Stucco Flange Window Frames – Stucco flange window frames are also known as flush fin or jump frame windows. They make the removal process simpler since it requires a pocket installation. A pocket installation utilizes insert windows and is constructed in flush-fin and block-fit frames. The expert removes the current window’s sashes, but the structure is left intact and often trimmed to accommodate the installation of these windows.
The expert sets the new window inside the already set-up window frame, and the stucco flange conceals the current frame from the outside. This strategy is most effective when there is no water infiltration or structural damage to the window opening. Different window installation companies have their favored techniques for stucco window replacements.
New Construction Window Frames
New construction windows installation has a nail flange or called a nail fin. The installer sets the nail fin about an inch from the face of the window frame. You’ll need to use new construction window frames when installing windows in a new wall or opening.
If the expert advises you to use construction frames for the window replacement projects, you will have to remove almost all of the current stucco. And afterward, the expert has to rebuild the stucco after installing the new window.
Damaged Stucco can Deteriorate, and Crack
Stucco is usually durable, yet it is also highly water permeable. When stucco has uncovered cracks, moisture can prompt mold and wood rot. The remediation process is a more effective technique for achieving a superior long-term solution.
The remediation technique involves removing the stucco and addressing root issues and causes. It will cost more cash and be a tedious process. However, ensure that you address existing problems before starting your stucco window replacement project.
Eliminating Stucco Can Be Dangerous Regarding Stucco Window Replacements
Removing stucco is a difficult job. The material is sturdy, and many different risks are at play. Therefore, be cautious of the dangers associated with asbestos. While stucco made today does not contain this material, stucco installed on old houses between 1940 and 1990 may have contained asbestos in the plaster. Additionally, removing stucco requires cutting through a wired mesh that can irritate your eyes if you don’t wear goggles.
You Want an Experienced Contractor for your Stucco Window Replacement Project
According to Bay Cities Construction, the average window replacement cost for new construction windows requiring stucco is $1,000- $1,500 per window (labor and materials).
But not all window companies can handle stucco window replacements. So, hiring an impact window contractor in Clearwater, FL is an excellent idea; however, consider doing your research and reading reviews.
Hiring a dependable window replacement company can save you time and money.
