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I am trying to get the correct size for a basement window to be
ordered from Home Depot. The existing aluminum (skinning frame)
window appears to be installed wedged between two steel tube frames.
the outer frame is approx 1 1/2 by 1 1/2 and the inner one 2 by 2. I
am not sure if the two are connected. Without destroying the existing
window how can I get the right size for a retrofit window ?
Is the retrofit window installed from outside to but with the 2 by 2
frame ??

What on earth is a 'skinnning frame'?
Basement windows I have seen, you measure from concrete to concrete, the
'rough opening', and remove all of the old window. Of course, if you want to
reuse part of the old frame, hopefully the manufacturer or dealer will have
instructions. Are these egress windows, or the itty-bitty venting windows?
Those usually fit in a slot in the bock around the opening, and the rough
frames are installed when basement wall is layed or poured. Almost sounds
like you already have replacement windows down there- never seen a
mixed-metal installation. I have seen egress-size windows installed in
walkouts or big window wells using PT wood studs anchored to the sides and
bottom of the opening in the concrete, but it is really just a normal window
install at that point. A traditional venting window opening is so small that
you really don't want to block any of the opening off like that.

aem sends....