Replacing windows in stucco walls

If energy bills are through the roof or your windows are warping and damaged from years of weather damage, then replacement windows can keep your family comfortable and warm.

When it comes to replacing windows in a stucco wall, you want your chosen window installation company to take a little more care. Keep the following in mind. Window insulation companies will have their preferred method of insulation.

For stucco, the experts you choose for the job should know the possible risks and delicacy of stucco walls. They may have their unique method, or they will do one of the following:. As you do your research you might hear about different types of window frames or window flanges.

Windows used for replacement window projects will either have a stucco flange or nail flange around the frame. Windows with a stucco flange are also called flush fin or jump frame windows. These are commonly used for replacement window projects in stucco homes. They make the removal process a little easier because it only requires a pocket installation. A pocket installation uses insert windows.

Insert windows are made in flush-fin and block-fit frames. The new window is set inside the already-in-place window frame and the stucco flange hides the existing frame from the exterior. This is our preferred method if there is no water or structural damage to the window opening.

Many window replacement companies have their own preferred methods, if they take on stucco projects at all. You can see and learn more about stucco flanges in the video below. The video features Milgard windows with a stucco flange, what they call a Z-Bar. Milgard windows are no longer available in Texas and so our go-to for stucco replacement window projects is now Alside.

New construction windows have a nail flange, we usually call it a nail fin. The nail fin is set back about an inch from the face of the window frame. Stucco is often labeled as being "durable," but it's actually water permeable. If stucco is damaged and has exposed cracks, moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and wood rot.

Repairs are possible, but for a better long-term solution, an entire remediation process may be necessary. Remediation involves removing the stucco from corner to corner and addressing root issues and causes. It is a costly and time-consuming process. Make sure to resolve existing problems with your stucco before you begin your window replacement project.

Stucco removal is hard work. The material is strong, and if you don't end up in bed from pure exhaustion, there are other dangers at play. Personal protective equipment PPE is needed to protect your eyes and lungs. These items include:. Stucco removal for window replacement involves hammering the wall until it cracks and crumbles.

Other companies may use a circular cutter to create a new window hole. New Window in Stucco The contractor working on this house ruined the stucco wall by ripping out the old window. Don't make this mistake - ever. Look at the new 2x rough framing sticking out PAST the stucco! This contractor should never be allowed again on a job site. Total Fail. This column was featured in my March 29, AsktheBuilder Newsletter. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Stucco Remediation with Hardie Siding. Stucco Remediation to Insulated Vinyl Siding. Stucco Remediation to Hardie Board Siding.

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