Installing a Glass Block Window: Remove Old Window and Cut Out Side Windows
From "Weekend Remodeling"
episode WKR-112 -- More Projects »
Prep Work, Remove Window Sill and Cut Out Interior Side Holes = 3 hours
Remove Old Window and Cut Out Side Windows = 4 hours
Build New Frames and Set Glass Blocks = 5 hours
Exterior and Interior Trim = 4 hours
Total time spent on project = 16 hours over 2-1/2 days
On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the hardest, this project is a level 3. We spent approximately $600 for supplies; a contractor would charge around $1,500. Materials: Scaffolding (rented)
Utility knife
Flat pry bar
Hammer
Level
Key hole saw
Speed square
Cats paw
2 x 4's
2-1/2" wood screws
1 x 6 pine
2-1/2" finish nails
Glass blocks
Framing for glass blocks
Mortar for glass blocks
Spacers
White or clear silicone sealant
Panel anchors
Trowel
Mortar pan
Drill, driver and bits
Tin snips
Measuring tape
2-1/4" case molding
Caulk and caulking gun
Paint and brushes - Remove the vinyl "J channel" around all 4 sides of the window. You will not be using this again, so don't worry about breaking it.
- If the window edging is nailed to the house, you need to remove the nails all the way around the perimeter. Use a cats paw to work out the nails.
Note: This is not an easy task because the vinyl siding makes it difficult to get to the nails (figure A). If you tear the vinyl, it will create a lot of repair work. - When all the nails are removed, take out the window.
- Back inside, use a speed square to transfer the corners of the interior opening to the back of the sheeting.
- Use a drill to mark the holes in the vinyl siding on the outside (figure B).
- Use a level and draw lines on the siding connecting the holes and then use a utility knife to cut the vinyl siding away (figure C).
Expert Tip: Some vinyl siding colors and styles may be difficult or impossible to manage, so work carefully during the demolition phase of any project that involves vinyl siding. - Drill out starter holes with a paddle bit (figure D).
- Cut the sheeting with a reciprocal saw, cutting from point to point and then take the window out. Trim away any rough edges (figure E).
Expert Tip: Whenever you cut through an exterior wall, make sure any vapor barriers and insulation are still intact before you close the hole or otherwise limit your access.
RESOURCES :
Taunton's Build Like a Pro: Windows and Doors: Expert Advice From Start to Finish (Build Like a Pro)
ISBN: 1561584835
Author: Scott McBride
Order this book from Amazon.com.
The Taunton Press Inc.
Website: www.taunton.com
Glass Block Materials (Pittsburgh Corning Corp.)
Pittsburgh Corning Corporation
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Phone: 724-327-6100
Fax: 724-325-9704
Website: www.pittsburghcorning.com
The Complete Guide to Doors and Windows
Model: 1589230450
Author: Tom Lemmer
(August 2002)
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Creative Publishing International, Inc.
Website: www.creativepub.com
Great Windows and Doors: A Step-by-Step Guide
Model: 0806956038
Author: Rick Peters
(June 2001)
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
Website: www.sterlingpub.com
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