You have to decide if you want replacement windows or new construction windows. You don't rip out your trim, etc with replacements but they do look like replacements. The glass area is smaller. The best look would be new construction windows and it would require the rip out. You can carefully remove your trim, etc to reuse it.

It is unlikely that any new construction windows you will get will use the same trim setup. Replacement windows would be your choice if you wanted to keep the trim.
Ron

The Loewen dealer told me that he's "heard stories" about builders who were able to carefully remove and re-use the original trim, but that he's never actually seen it done in person.

The Pella installers, however, have told me that they would be able to install their casement windows while keeping the original trim. I take it from what premier says above that the glass area would be decreased going this route?

I think it's all about finding the right contractor/installer and being willing to pay for some custom work. An experienced carpenter could install windows without the tear out, I'm pretty sure (I've heard of carpenters who can do this, and we may be hiring one for just this purpose for our 2008 remodel in the Bay Area).

Hi jan_s,

Do you know someone who can do this? Like you, I live in the Bay Area.

Yes, I have heard of a carpenter/artist who's done this for a 1908 craftsman bungalow in the Palo Alto area. I'll email you if I can.

I know you feel the existing windows are in good condition. I also know there are many people out there who want to keep their original look & curb appeal. The big question you need to answer is whether or not you want to trade that appeal for energy efficiency? I'm in no way trying to be disrespectful in any way. In order to get a good window that will save you money and look nice, you'll have to give something up. You won't have to give up much if you can find an installer who will work with you a bit.

There are really only two ways to replace a window. There's a third way but it's only a sash replacement (like the Marvin Tiltpac). Otherwise we do a "Full Frame Replacement" (aka, "Total Replacement") or a "Pocket Replacement" (aka, "Insert").

The Marvin "TiltPac" is the ultimate choice for your needs. The only downfall is these windows really need to be installed in a square & plumb opening in order to perform properly. Unfortunately they only come in double-hung replacement. It sounds like you have casements through out your home.

The pocket replacement slides inside your old frame without disturbing it. We usually pull the trim on the inside and make sure the frame is insulated properly. Otherwise everything keeps it's original appeal. There will be some glass loss when using an insert. One thing you need to keep in mind though is your egress windows have to meet Fire Code if they already comply. Make sure the installer keeps you in compliance.

The full frame replacement can be done properly and keep your inside trim, we do this everyday. It just has to be measured properly. A full frame replacement is by far the most energy efficient way to replace your windows. You get a window that's nice and square with good insulation. The outside can be capped with aluminum to make them no maintenance and look original. We do houses here that are on the Historical Registry and must meet certain historical guidelines when being done. It's all in the eye of the installer. You'll need to find a quality installer who's used to doing this type of application.

Go to this site and look for an installer in the Bay Area. I know there are some here.

Here is a link that might be useful: Replacement Windows