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Instructions - Making the window frame
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Page 17 of 21
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The window frame in this project is made out of 150x50 (2x6) dressed/surfaced lumber which is a common stock size. However, the actual size of the lumber when dressed finishes at approximately 140x45 (1 1/2"x 5 1/2") and this may vary slightly from place to place so make necessary allowances.
For more information on lumber sizes click here.
Also ensure the lumber that you use is suitable for exterior use.

Full page contents are at the bottom of the page.
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Identifying the window parts
A window frame is the outermost sides of a window. It consists of head, sill and two side jambs forming a box or rectangle to which the sash (moving segment of the window) is attached.
The window parts are....
[a] Jambs: The side upright members of the window frame.
[b] Head: The top horizontal member of the window frame.
[c] Sill: The bottom horizontal member of the window frame.
[d] Stile: The vertical member, or side of a sash. A sash is the moving segment of the window.
[e] Top rail: The top horizontal member of a sash.
[f] Bottom rail: The bottom horizontal member of a sash.
[g] Trim: Finishing piece of wood around the outside of the window frame.
[h] Muntin bar or grille: Strip of wood glued to pane. In this case it is decorative only.
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Some important measurements
Actual lumber sizes vary from place to place so use all dimensions as a guide only.
The important measurements are....
1.) The overall height and width of the window frame should be 10mm (3/8") less than the overall height and width of the rough opening in the wall to allow for some play.
2.) Allow enough gap between the sash and frame to ensure ease of opening. In this case we've used at least 5mm (3/16") clearance all the way around the sash.
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How wide should the window frame be?
Usually the width of a window frame should be the same as the thickness of the wall, including the interior lining and the exterior siding.
This is so the frame will be flush with both the inside and outside of the wall allowing for trims and moldings to fit neatly around both the inside and outside of the window. However
in this case the frame is wider than the wall which means it will project into the building an inch or so, reflecting our personal preference regarding the finished look.
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Instructions - making the window frame
Step 1.
Cut a rebate in a piece of lumber 150x50 x 1800 long (2x6 x 72" long). This is best done using a bench saw to make two cuts along the length of the lumber: one cut 50mm (2") deep along the edge and one cut 20mm (3/4") deep along the face. See the drawing.
Step 2.
Cut the 4 frame members to length: 2 pieces at 490mm (19 5/8") and 2 pieces at 390mm (15 5/8"). Angle each cut at 45°.
Step 3. Glue and nail the frame members together, forming a rectangle.
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NOTE: This complete plan-set can also be purchased in downloadable PDF format free of advertising and print friendly for only $5. For more info
click here

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