With all the kinds of sidings that you can use around your window, you must have heard about its aluminum versions. If you are confused about whether you can use this to upgrade your home's eyes, here is the answer you are looking for. We got it from the experts!
It does. To do this, you will need to get the measurement of your windows. After that, transfer the sizings into the J channel and make sure that you will lot a few inches more.
Cut them and try putting them on the window to see if there is no gap between the two before installing them permanently. Do the same thing with the other three sides until you form a trim around the window.
To be able to do this right, you will need further instructions about how to do the procedure. Do not worry! We will provide you with everything that you need to know from start to finish. So, make sure that you will stay with us until the end of this article. Let's start!
Installing Aluminum Siding J Channel Around Windows
To save you from walking back and forth to find the tools you need for this task, we will now give you the list of things you will be using. This can also help you see if you are knowledgeable in utilizing them later on.
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Metal cutting scissor
- Drill
You can ask for assistance if you do not know how to use any of these. And if nobody around is available to help, hiring a professional is an option too.
But whatever option you choose, here is the in-depth procedure of the process.
Procedure For Installing Aluminum Siding J Channel
If you have gathered all that you need and are now standing in front of your mirror, it is time to protect yourself from accidents. Some of the tools you will use can inflict cuts on your skin, so wear protective gloves.
Please do not skip this as much as possible, as you may acquire tetanus bacteria from the smallest cut, especially if your metal-cutting scissor is rusty already. And for your awareness, tetanus can inflict serious health problems that can lead to death.
If ever you still get hurt, make sure that you will immediately wash your hands with clean running water and soap. Rinse it thoroughly.
To be more specific, you can go to the doctor as soon as possible and consult about what happened and what you should do to avoid tetanus.
Check out NoCry's cut-resistant gloves on Amazon.
After that, put away the curtains, rods, brackets, and the things that may disturb you from working. Move away the cabinets or any other furniture. If you have carpets under the window, roll them out first.
Step 1: Get The Measurement Of Your Window
Using your tape measure, get the length of each side of your window. Make sure you stretch it in a straight line to get accurate numbers.
If you are the type of person who quickly forgets digits, below is a template you can copy on a piece of paper and fill out afterward.
Window Number:___
Upper horizontal: ______
Lower horizontal: ______
Left Vertical: _____
Right Vertical:______
Step 2: Mark The J-Channel
Once you are done with the measurement, lay your j channels on a flat surface. Mark each piece with the sizing that you got with a pencil. Now from the length of the window, allot a few inches away outwards and put a mark again. This is an allowance that will be adjusted later on.
Do these with the rest of the pieces.
Step 3: Cut The J-Channel
Get your metal cutting scissors and cut the lines that are for allowance. To get a clean cut, start with the front part of the j-channel, followed by the back. Once each side is sliced, fold it open, then cut the bottom side.
After that, place the piece (preferably the lower horizontal) in the window to ensure the mark you made is the same as the actual one. Repeat this with the others.
Check out Wiss' metal cutting scissors on Amazon.
Step 4: Create Notches And Corners
For the horizontal parts, it is now time to make a notch. In both of its ends, cut a u-shaped opening where the bases are the mark for the window part's length.
For the vertical pieces, make diagonal corners. The line's starting point is the actual measurement of the window also going straight toward the end of the extra length we made.
If you bring them together, they will be counterparts. Trace slants from the vertical pieces on the horizontal j-channels to create a perfect frame for your window. Cut the spare parts for this.
Step 5: Attach The J-Channels
Once all the sides have their diagonal corners perfectly fit each other, you can now start attaching them around your window using a drill and a screw.
Pro tip: Bend the shorter side inwards to create an angle and prevent the j-channel from having a gap once installed.
Step 6: Paint The J-Channel Around The Window
If you want to conceal its presence or make it blend with your window and walls, paint the installed j-channel with a color that matches the ones around it. Purchase a primer and paint that holds onto aluminum to get the desired result.
For a better illustration of the procedure, here is a video that you can watch and follow alongside the given instructions.
Want to learn how to tint your windows? Read this article: How To Tint Home Windows
Should J Channel Be Caulked To Window?
It depends on how well the J-channel is installed in your window. If there are no gaps and they are perfectly pressed and joined together tightly, there is no need to caulk them. However, if it is the other way around, you should seal it.
Wondering if your basement windows have to be tempered? Find out the answer here: Do Basement Windows Need To Be Tempered?
In Summary
You can install an aluminum siding J channel around your window. To do this, measure the sides of your window. Cut the j-channels a few inches more than the sizings you got.
Cut notches for horizontal parts and diagonal edges for vertical pieces. Adjust the length to create a frame before installing them with a screw and drill. Paint it with a color that goes well with your window and wall if you want.
