Aluminium Windows

[gregt]

I'm doing up a rental house and think I need to replace the old wooden windows with Aluminium ones. One glass bloke told me to just unscrew the glass doors each side and cut out the stiles(?). Then use the existing wooden frame. Wouldn't I be better of taking the whole window out and use the stud frame to mount a full aluminum window. Surely it would look better. I have gyprocked inside but not flushed yet and the outside will be getting re-clad. Any thoughts?

[TermiMonster]

I used to work for an aluminium window company (installing). Depending on the circumstances, the method you were advised to use is not uncommon. Saves a lot of time (money) and if the finish is good, why not. Removing a large existing window can create a lot of (possibly ) unforseen problems, like damaged plaster, the need to extend plaster over gaps (eg if the existing are dh with the old weights on either side, etc.
In a rental, it's definately the go, unless you're looking at corporate type clientele (ie top end).
TM