5 Things You Should Know Before Replacing Windows in a Brick House

Are you looking to replace the windows in your old brick home? Replacing windows in your house may be due to necessity or for a revamp and style upgrade. Browsing window inspiration↗ can get you excited about improved insulation, uncluttered views, and natural lighting. But before you get carried away, there are real considerations that you cannot ignore preceding a window installation project.

This article will help you see clearly when it comes to installing replacement windows in a brick house.

5 Things You Should Know Before Replacing Windows in a Brick House

Replacing windows in a brick house may seem daunting, but not if you leave the work in the hands of a reputable window expert. Here are five common questions and answers for replacing windows in a brick house:

1. Is it Hard to Replace Windows in a Brick House?

Brick and stucco exteriors may provide more challenge and room for error than a home with vinyl or wood siding. Both stucco and brick are fragile and can crack and crumble, leading to moisture infiltration and further damage.

Careful insulation is necessary if you want a flawless finish and untarnished brickwork.

2. Do You Have to Remove Brick to Replace Windows?

No, generally, you do not have to remove brick to replace a window. Ideally, the brick will only have to be cut back if a larger window is installed.

3. Will Window Replacement Damage My Brick Walls?

Unfortunately, in old homes, where brickwork is old, brittle, or previously damaged from shifting, negligent work can cause damage to brick walls during the window replacement process.

When removing old windows, the installation company you choose will need to take caution and use precise tools. This is vital if you have an old home whose brickwork would be challenging to match in the event of unwanted touch-ups.  

4. Can I Use Insert Windows?

Insert windows, or pocket windows, are replacement windows fully assembled and placed into an existing frame. It is possible to use insert windows when the previous frame structure is intact and in good waterproof condition but that comes with aesthetic drawbacks.

When old frames are water damaged or ill-measured, this scenario may necessitate a full-frame window. A complete replacement window is inserted into a neatened-up and waterproofed rough opening.

The replacement window type that is used all depends on the condition of the old window frame.

5. What are Common Mistakes When Installing Windows in Brick Walls?

Mistakes in a home renovation are costly and frustrating. Here are some common errors that heedless work may encounter:

• Inattentive measurements
• Prying directly against the brick veneer and cause the brick to break
• Jerking the nails out too quickly, causing flaws in the brickwork
• Not smoothing out the caulking enough; a rough opening needs to be level and square, with 90-degree angles

Replacing Windows in a Brick House, Final Thoughts

So you've realized that your old brick home is needing new windows. As much as you may love DIY, window replacement in a brick home is best left to the professionals so that the brick is as undisturbed as possible. Correct measurement is also essential for a clean installation in all home siding materials.

Your best choice for a successful window upgrade is a window installer with experience installing windows into a range of home exterior finishes. While you're upgrading your windows, remember to consider advancements in glazing, low- emissivity, tinting, security, and more. This is your chance to improve curb appeal, aesthetics, and comfort. With good windows, your brick home can get the upgrade it deserves to last for many more years.

Are you looking to upgrade the windows in your old brick home? We can help. Book a free consultation and receive a written estimate for your replacement window project.