Replacing windows with different type

[mike_k]

Hi All,
The window rubber seals on my boat need replacing and I've found various sources for the rubbers and inserts.
However, how feasible is it to replace the windows completely with something different ? Something like framed windows (metal or plastic) bolted through the sides ? Is it worth the hassle and expense ? There are 6 to replace all together - the biggest probably about 2-3 ft long, 10 inches high. ( I should have measured before posting this, I suppose /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif)
Is there a source for this type of window ?

Thanks.

 

[Talbot]

Very feasible

 

[Stemar]

[ QUOTE ]
Very feasible

[/ QUOTE ]but expensive /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

I presume your current frames are knackered.

There are companies who will come and measure your boat - if she's a standard model they may well have the measurements on file - and make new windows to be an exact fit, but as a poverty-stricken boat owner, I'd need to be sitting down with a large scotch ready when they tell me the price.

Some boats look fine with oversized perspex/polycarbonate screwed to the cabin sides, others look 'orrible. If you do this, a rubber sealing strip (from Seals Direct) would look better than sealant.

An alternative would be to use a rubber mount like the windscreen on an old car - Sea Witches have this arrangement from memory, but I wouldn't do that if I thought there was the slightest risk of a wave landing on the window with any force.

Windows are on the to do list for Jissel this winter, and if I can, I'll re-use the old frames, repairing the corroded bits with plastic metal. If they don't look right, I'll paint 'em.

 

[jonathankent]

[ QUOTE ]
An alternative would be to use a rubber mount like the windscreen on an old car

[/ QUOTE ]
Thats how mine are now, but the rubber has started to perish and comes off when you touch it. I was planning to replace 'like for like' and just put on some new rubber sealing and sealent in behind. Shouldn't be a problem... should it?

 

[mike_k]

Thanks for the feedback - I'd an idea it would be expensive to get some other type of window.
Basically, the rubber is perishing and leaving black streaks all down the sides or leaving black marks on anything that touches the rubber surrounds. I think I'll just replace the rubbers with something from Sealsdirect - they have exactly what I need as a direct replacement.
My brother-in-law has this idea it would be easier and cheaper to do something else so the feedback is useful.
I don't really fancy drilling holes and bolting something through the sides. I've never liked drilling holes - even in the walls at home - unless it is completely unavoidable.