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ohb0b · May 7, 2009, 01:47 AM

I want to replace my aluminum frame windows with replacement vinyl.

The old windows have a flange, which was nailed to the studs, then the siding was nailed on top of it.

The window replacement people say they will "collapse" the frame to pull out the flange. I have seen a video, they first remove the glass, cut the center bar, then use a special tool to pry the flange out. The tool resembles an old time nail puller.

1. What is the name of this tool? I want to see if I can rent one.

2. Why not just cut the flange with a circular saw or sawzall?

Thanks.

21boat · May 7, 2009, 09:16 AM

Not sure if this is the exact tool you are looking for but it does the trick,
21" Wonder Bar, Ideal For Nail Pulling For Pry Or Pull Methods, Longer

It thin enough to get behind the flange and you can wack it with a hammer and cut the roofing head off the nail.

A sawzall in that position could only cut the nails that hold the flange on. You are working from the inside jamb. Have to tear siding to actually cut the whole flange off. And to leave a partial flange on would be a bumpy sloppy looking job not to mention accidentally cutting the jamb

ohb0b · May 7, 2009, 11:23 AM

They don't cut the nails, they pull the flange out from between the siding and the studs.

I was asking about setting the circular saw depth shallow, cutting the visible portion of the frame loose, and just leaving the flange in place. The saw cut would be along the existing window frame, (Saw blade perpendicular to the wall)

I was planning on cutting almost to the corners, so I wouldn't have saw marks, then using the frame itself as a lever to pull out the corner nails. (I wouldn't actually pull the nails out, the flange would tear along the nails, much like when the professional installers "collapse" the frame.

creahands · May 9, 2009, 09:34 PM

Hi ohbob

Where can we see video?

Chuck

ohb0b · May 10, 2009, 01:21 AM

I actually found a better video. The guy has one for sale!

YouTube - Aluminum window frame remover - "X-Tractor"

I'm not connected with the company, and don't want to get in trouble for advertising a product (I'm sure its against the terms of use for this site)

But this device costs less than $300, and could possibly save you thousands of dollars by doing the window installation yourself.

creahands · May 10, 2009, 07:13 AM

Thanks for info. Some of people on site may be able to use it.

Lot of money for a DIY'er but good for pro.

Thanks

Chuck

ohb0b · May 10, 2009, 12:25 PM

Lot of money for a DIY'er but good for pro.

Not really. The manufacturer sells it for $250, plus S&H, so a $300 investment to enable you to replace your own windows could save you several thousand in labor costs. Then you could probably re-sell it on E-Bay after you are done with it and recoup a third to half your cost!