Q. I have old triple groove aluminum storms screwed in place over very old wood double hung windows.Can I just leave them in place for added protection and install replacement windows. The storms are in good shape.

A. The problem is, your new windows are a little bit smaller. You won't be able to remove the storm windows for cleaning.

Q. Share your knowledge, tips, advice, cautions, etc. about replacement windows. I have a 3 bedroom ranch and am considering a window company to do it. What kind of windows should I get? Vinyl? Double pane? I know nothing HELP ME!

A. Get the aluminum (painted or anodized finish), double pane glass (for energy savings), and have them supply the screens with the windows. You will probably get a better deal if you have them do the whole house. You may have to replace the basic framing at the same time that you replace the windows - I would ask the window dealer about a reputable installer (they usually have some on file). Changing to the right windows will give you lower power bills and make your life easier in cleaning and operating the windows. Good luck with your project.

Q. They have fogged up and need replaced badly.

A. Check the jambs, there might be a screwed in jamb that comes in 2 pieces, if this is the case, you should be able to remove one side, therefor making it possible to slide the windows out

Q. Please help I need to replace that sliding channels for old double hung windows.I have aluminum channels with spring inside spring is good but it will not stay open.where to buy universal replacement channels ?????? I remember it was very available before .I do not know what is name for this channels.Please help.

A. Are you talking about casement windows made out of wood? Yeah, my husband had to replace some, but, once he took out the lower window he found the old iron things in there, they just came loose,he replaced the things and they work just fine. I would imagine that this is a specialty item check The old house web. I simply started with casement window weights and #1 sounded good so It led me to this company. I hope we are on the same window

Q. I need advice on whether to buy vinyl replacement windows for my home. I am finding mixed information on the Web. I know that vinyl windows can be very energy efficient, but I am concerned about dioxin and other toxins linked to vinyl. I just got an estimate today, and the non-vinyl windows (fiberglass) are nearly twice as expensive as the vinyl ones. Can you help me decide?

A. We had vinyl put in when we replaced our old aluminum windows. For the first few years they were fine but after six years or so they started to look bad and some splits developed. Our lifetime warranty is useless because the company is out of business. As a result I am looking for an alternative to vinyl to replace these with.

Q. One that I can get the tax credit on. I need an estimated price before the credits. I live in Houston, TX sizes 6 ft x 3.5 ft 5 ft x 3.5 ft 5.2 ft x 6 ft standard size patio window/door 6.5 f x 8 ft sizes are rounded, brick house built in 1984,have aluminum on there now. Thanks Yes just 4 windows. Medium grade These are Single Hung Windows (only slide open from the bottom.

A. I'm assuming these are double hung windows. Replaced with vinyl replacement windows HI-R Low-E Glass argon filled.To remove and install new window.These are estimates,but should be very close to actual cost. $791.00 $707.00 $938.00 $1384.00 Patio

Q. I have had some gutters and a downspout replaced. The new ones are glossy white and made of aluminum. What do I use to paint them with the same latex house paint I used for my house exterior. Specifically, do I need some kind of undercoat or primer prior to the finish coat?

A. The white paint that is on aluminum gutters is baked on at the factory. Aluminum gutters don't rust (where did that guy go to school?) You will need to prime them to get your house paint to adhere to the gutters. If you just paint over them the paint will peel within a year. You have to use a special primer made to paint aluminum. It ain't cheap! Why don't you just leave them white and save yourself a lot of work?

Q. We are poor LOL bought some discounted replacement windows at a bargain price $49 each (normally $835.00 each installed);double hung, Low E, Argon filled, Vinyl Simontron Windows. These windows are about 4-5 inches smaller than my current widows outlined by brick. How do you make them fit?

A. You will have to frame around them to mount them in the opening no matter what.You can fill around the outside with PVC "wood", brick, or wood wrapped in aluminum. the inside could be filled in with drywall or whatever material is there now.