Going with basic aluminum/steel window frames
October 11, 2022 2:10 PM Subscribe
I need to replace some window frames in my house, but they'll be painted so I don't particularly care what they look like. I have access to some skilled craftsmen who will have no trouble producing a custom set of casement windows. Is there any reason to get fancy?
Response by poster: Do you care about energy efficiency?
No.
What type glazing will be provided?
Not sure quite what you mean. They will be single pane plexiglass seated with whatever my contractor feels is best.
Are these to be replacement/inserts into existing frames?
They are complete replacements for existing 60-year old steel frames that have lived long, colorful, and poorly maintained lives.
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 4:33 PM on October 11, 2022
No.
What type glazing will be provided?
Not sure quite what you mean. They will be single pane plexiglass seated with whatever my contractor feels is best.
Are these to be replacement/inserts into existing frames?
They are complete replacements for existing 60-year old steel frames that have lived long, colorful, and poorly maintained lives.
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 4:33 PM on October 11, 2022
I'd encourage sealed, double- or triple-paned windows where there's a gas sealed in between the glass. Energy efficiency is a generally good thing, and makes your house more comfortable. I have a few metal framed windows with double glass. I suspect the frames conduct cold in/ heat out. They have held up pretty well.
posted by theora55 at 6:02 PM on October 11, 2022 [2 favorites]
posted by theora55 at 6:02 PM on October 11, 2022 [2 favorites]
There are some pretty good reasons why windows are usually purchased as units from specialty companies rather than built by GCs. Thermal insulation is definitely the big one, but others include moisture incursion, security, UV protection, and longevity (moving parts and flexible gaskets exposed to the elements can weather quickly).
If this is an external window, I think it’s really penny wise and pound foolish to cheap out on the frame. Among other things, if you end up letting water in, that could lead to mold or damage to the wall.
posted by goingonit at 7:54 PM on October 11, 2022 [5 favorites]
If this is an external window, I think it’s really penny wise and pound foolish to cheap out on the frame. Among other things, if you end up letting water in, that could lead to mold or damage to the wall.
posted by goingonit at 7:54 PM on October 11, 2022 [5 favorites]
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Do you care about energy efficiency?
What type glazing will be provided?
Are these to be replacement/inserts into existing frames?
posted by mightshould at 2:18 PM on October 11, 2022 [1 favorite]