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Installing Aluminium Windows Step by Step

The most common type on windows in houses is aluminium windows. However installing windows whether they are timber or aluminium are the same process. Aluminium windows are simple when the reveals are pre-fitted. Reveals are the timber around the window that becomes the window sill inside your home after the window is fitted. It is important that these are part of your window at the time of order. To be ready for fitting a window cut a number of wedges from 1mm to 6-8mm out of hardboard (weather board) is best. They can be made out of timber however they will tend to split or crack when nailed or screwed.

Step 1: Check your house frame

Check the window opening with a spirit level to see if and how square the stud opening is. Stud Opening is a term meaning the opening in the frame of your house. This opening size is what you take to your window supplier when ordering a window. Check the stud opening so you know the window will fit and where it will need to be packed to make it plumb.

Step 2: Place your window

With another person, lift the window into position and temporary screw or nail the window loosely. The screw of nail should only hold the window to stop it falling out.

Step 3: Plumb the Window

From the inside of the window pack the window level first with the use of your wedges and your spirit level. Then wedge and plumb the sides of the reveal. To make sure that the window is not too far in or out of the frame, use a piece of plasterboard or lining to make sure your window is flush with inside wall. If the linings have not been installed hold a piece of plasterboard against the house frame and ensure your timber reveal is flush with this. However if the lining is already in place ensure the edge of the reveal is flush with the inside lining. Make sure your window is level and plumb and secured with wedges.

Step 4: Check and finish

Check your bottom reveal or sill is level and the side reveals are plumb and correct. Now you can fix your window off by screwing or nailing it to the house frame. This is done by screwing or nailing through the reveals and wedges into the house frame. DO NOT screw or nail through the reveal and into the house frame without passing through a supporting wedge. If you nail or screw without the use of a wedge the reveal will bend or bow in towards the house frame.

Your window is now installed and ready for you to fix your architrave around the edge.