Window installation question for vinyl siding house

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jh97
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Window installation question for vinyl siding house

#1 Post by jh97 »

We are in the process of getting quotes for replacing 15 windows + 1 slider for our house. Our house has vinyl siding. A couple of the companies we've had give estimates have explained that the install process would be to take out the current window and 'block set' the replacement window by setting into the J channel and screwing into the side of the window, and installing a flashing on the top of the window, and then apply caulk around the new window and using the existing exterior trim. Does this sound like the best approach for a house with vinyl siding? Will it be weather tight? We live near Seattle so rain is of concern. Would it be worth the extra headache of removing the vinyl siding to completely remove the window frame down to the studs and reinstall? Any insight is appreciated! Thank you.

toddinmn
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Re: Window installation question for vinyl siding house

#2 Post by toddinmn »

The extra headache would be worth it.

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HomeSealed
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Re: Window installation question for vinyl siding house

#3 Post by HomeSealed »

Will it be weathertight? It should if done properly. It is a legitimate installation method, and approved by manufacturers. Is it the BEST method? NO. Your alternatives are to R&R the siding, or to cut the siding back. IMO, R&R of the siding is pretty extreme for a house full of windows, as you are going to pay for nearly the entire house to be resided minus materials. You also deal with fade lines at seams, potential of breaking pieces, etc. What I like to do in these circumstances is to cut back the siding to allow for the full nailing fin removal and install of the new window with fin and proper flashing detail. You then add trim in the space where the siding was cut back... Full protection and weather, and it actually looks nicer IMO with trim around it, than siding up to the window frame.
Any of the three options are valid methods, each with their own pros and cons.

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Windows on Washington
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Re: Window installation question for vinyl siding house

#4 Post by Windows on Washington »

HomeSealed wrote:Will it be weathertight? It should if done properly. It is a legitimate installation method, and approved by manufacturers. Is it the BEST method? NO. Your alternatives are to R&R the siding, or to cut the siding back. IMO, R&R of the siding is pretty extreme for a house full of windows, as you are going to pay for nearly the entire house to be resided minus materials. You also deal with fade lines at seams, potential of breaking pieces, etc. What I like to do in these circumstances is to cut back the siding to allow for the full nailing fin removal and install of the new window with fin and proper flashing detail. You then add trim in the space where the siding was cut back... Full protection and weather, and it actually looks nicer IMO with trim around it, than siding up to the window frame.
Any of the three options are valid methods, each with their own pros and cons.
This is exactly my thought on the process and options as well.

Is it extra money, yes. Will it provide for a more sound and complete installation...you betcha.

jh97
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Re: Window installation question for vinyl siding house

#5 Post by jh97 »

Thanks for all the info and the replies, much appreciated!!

fridge2020
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Re: Window installation question for vinyl siding house

#6 Post by fridge2020 »

I agree with the comments above. Always best to get a full finned install when possible.

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