HOW TO remove a Metal Frame WINDOW

Sometimes we have to remove metal frame picture windows. We don't want to replace them with another picture window because those are VERY expensive. So to economize, we install stock double hung windows after reframing the opening.

In this video watch us tear out the old metal frame window. In part two we will show you how we install the new windows.

Transcript: 

How to Remove a Metal Frame Window

Hello, this is Dennis with Home Rehab Pros. I hope everything is going well for you today. We have an exciting project underway that I'd like to share with you. We're currently working on a lovely project and I'll be demonstrating the process. In the background, you can see a metal frame window, which is a picture window located in the living room of this house. Our plan is to replace this single metal frame window with two double-hung vinyl windows positioned in a column in the middle.

Our first step is to discuss the approach with Jason, who will be handling this task. Jason has already started by removing some of the inside trim and window panels. We'll be focusing on his strategy for safely removing the glass and the metal frame, as well as constructing the new frame for the replacement windows. Let's dive in.

Okay, now let's outline our plan for safely removing the window. The main concern here is the fragility of the single-pane glass. It's important not to twist the frame too much, as it could lead to glass breakage. Our initial approach involves tapping the metal frame from the outside, where there is a flange. If this method doesn't work well due to caulk or other factors, we might make a cut to provide relief to the frame. Our goal is to remove the window safely, either in one piece or gradually.

It's worth noting that the metal frame was secured with screws on both sides, and we've already removed those screws. Now, we'll tap the frame gently to avoid causing any damage to the glass. Ensuring that the frame is free from the exterior sill is crucial to prevent any unintended movement. We're using a five-in-one tool for this purpose.

In addition to the exterior sill, we need to ensure that the frame is free from the interior sill. We're carefully cutting away any caulk that might be holding it in place. This step is important to prevent any sudden movement that could lead to glass breakage.

With the frame sufficiently loosened, we can proceed to tap it from the bottom. Our strategy is to start with the bottom since the top is held in place by a masonry lentil. We're using a heavier hammer for this task, aiming to minimize twisting of the frame and potential damage to the glass.

As we tap, we notice that the masonry sill starts to move. To prevent any further movement, we decide to make a relief cut in the frame. This cut will alleviate pressure on the sill and help us continue the removal process smoothly.

We've made a relief cut using an angle grinder with a diamond-tipped metal blade. This step should help prevent further tension on the sill and facilitate the removal of the frame.

With the relief cut in place, we continue tapping the frame and gradually work it loose. Patience is key during this process, especially given the delicate nature of the glass. The goal is to avoid twisting the frame excessively.

Despite the challenges, we eventually manage to free the window from the frame. We do notice that some glass breakage occurred, but overall, we've successfully removed the window without causing major damage.

Now that the window is out, we can proceed with our plans for installing the replacement windows. This involved carefully sizing up the new windows and building a suitable frame. We also observed how the original window was installed with mortar, and we'll take steps to ensure a secure and proper installation for the replacements.

Overall, we've tackled the removal of the window, and despite some minor glass breakage, we're ready to move forward with the next steps of our project. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for more updates as we continue this exciting home rehabilitation journey.