Replacing old windows

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ct73

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Hi everybody,
My roommate just recently bought an old school building that was built in 1922. We need to replace the single pained aluminum windows with the new vinyl windows that the previous owner purchased. The problem I am running into is there is no wood at all around the current windows. It's all masonry. The windows are only being held in by a mortar. The existing window measures 75"x39" and the new windows measure 74"x37 1/2". What is the best way to install the new windows? I also have to replace the lentils above the windows so should I frame build a new frame for the windows to sit in? Also, would it be a good idea to putting flashing around the sill to help weatherproof? There are 8 of these windows to do in what is going to be our living room. I am waiting for my camera to charge so that I can post pictures of the existing windows and the replacement windows that the previous owner bought. Any help would be greatly appreciated. My roommate is trying to save as much money as he can on this project. I have a construction background and am currently laid off that is why I moved in. This building is a big project and in the long run both of us will greatly benefit if we get this to work. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
Here are a few of the pics that I have so far of what exits now.

windows 001.jpg

windows 002.jpg

windows 003.jpg

windows 004.jpg

windows 005.jpg
 
Replacing windows on older properties is notoriously difficult. They often need to be custom made to fit properly and therefore end up costing a lot more than using standard fit windows.

Sash Window
 
My husband decided to replace the basement windows in our house and was faced with a number of the same challenges you mention. You've likely already figured something out as the post is older but I thought you might be interested in a video series on installing replacement windows that I found on Fine Homebuilding magazine's website.

It has seven different videos for all the aspects of the project. I wanted to watch to be sure my husband was doing it correctly so I could put my foot down and demand an expert if he wasn't :eek:

It requires membership, which can be gotten for free temporarily by registering on their site. Cheers!
 
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