A method of installation that has been gaining ground recently is the installation of new aluminum frames on old wooden casings (frames on wooden casings). The main reason this method is gaining ground is the easy installation, but primarily the absence of repairs, which makes this solution particularly attractive.
Let’s see, then, how correct this type of frame installation is, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of this endeavor.
During the process of installing frames on wooden casings – on old frames, the installation team only removes the old wooden sashes of the frames and screws the new frames onto the old wooden casing.
Advantages:
a. The most significant advantage (frames on wooden casings) is the complete absence of repairs to the masonry of our house.
b. The time required to install the new frames is short, and the inconvenience is minimal.
c. The price of the frames is more economical (cheap frames) as the installation process and time are minimal.
d. There is the possibility to keep the old wooden roller shutters or French wooden shutters, if they are in good condition (in case of complete removal of the old wooden casings, the existing roller shutters or shutters must be replaced).
Disadvantages:
a. The old wooden casings on which the new frames are installed are usually over 40 years old. In case of wear or damage to the old wooden casings, the new energy-efficient frames will also be useless and cannot be reinstalled, because they will be smaller in size. At this point, it should be emphasized that the wear of the old wooden casings may not be externally visible (woodworm, etc.) and at first glance may appear new (frames on wooden casings).
b. The dimension of our frames and especially our glass is reduced by 10 centimeters in width and height because a new casing is installed over the old casing (casing on casing). This results in the dimension – and therefore the visibility (light) – of the glazing being smaller, and consequently, the sunlight entering the house is significantly reduced.
c. If we wish to install screens, they should be installed outside the existing roller shutters.
d. If we have opening shutters (French shutters) instead of roller shutters, it is impossible to install a screen. Also, it is common for the locking mechanism of old wooden shutters (hook) to “catch” and mark the new aluminum frame.
In conclusion, we recommend that you avoid installing new aluminum frames on old wooden casings (frames on wooden casings). It is preferable, if you are not ready, to postpone the purchase of new frames and do it correctly from the beginning, rather than installing them in the manner described above and paying for new frames that are very likely to be discarded after some time or to have significant problems and losses in a very short period due to the age of the old wooden casings.
