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New Construction vs. Replacement Windows

Ellis Mayhew LLC

11 years ago

Hi - what factors do I need to consider when looking at New Construction windows vs. Replacement windows? What are the pros/cons, and what should be the deciding factor.

We're looking to replace all of our windows but not like-for-like i.e. replace a twin double hung with a twin casement. If it's not like-for-like then is new construction the only way to go?

Thanks

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Comments (9)

HomeSealed
11 years ago
Not being "like for like" does not necessitate new construction. You are dealing with an empty opening whether you are installing into a buck frame or a rough opening.
Replacement style is a nice choice for most people. New construction (full tear-out) is a better choice when you have existing water management issues, substantial structural frame damage/rot, or you are very concerned about the potential loss of glass area. The pros of replacement are cost ( typically a couple hundred + ), your interior woodwork is not disturbed, and a far less intensive installation. Did I mention that there is a MAJOR cost difference? ;)
millworkman
11 years ago
The downside to not like type windows is the double hung and casement windows are typically not the same size which will make replacement units not in the correct size for your home.
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You need a complete replacement. Decide what you want ie. vinyl, wood, vinyl clad wood, fiberglass etc. and I'm sure someone will be able to give some advice...or at least an opinion. Vinyl is going to be the least expensive way to go. I wouldn't be too concerned with the strength of a vinyl window as long as you get good quality.
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Replacement windows are just that - the sashes ( using a double hung window as an example) are removed along with the jamb liners, leaving the frame of the old window, and a new window is inserted. Picture a frame within a frame A new construction (or full tear out as some call it) is where the entire window is removed right down to the studs of the house. A new construction window will have a flange that is called a nailing fin that is nailed directly to the sheathing/ studs from the exterior. All three of the manufactures you mentioned do make windows for both applications. In most cases a new construction window is not needed, unless of course there is great deal of integrity issues with the frame of the window you are replacing. Additionally, a full tear out job will generally yield more glass area. You mentioned three manufactures - two that make vinyl, and one that makes fiberglass (ultrex). Very difficult to rank from best to worst with these three, as they are all top producers. The difficult part of the ranking - you would need to determine if you want vinyl or fiberglass first. If you decide vinyl - you are in luck....you are right in the heart (Ohio) of a number of good manufactures.
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HomeSealed
11 years ago
MWM, I don't follow... Could you elaborate?
millworkman
11 years ago
lol, just reread my post and I confused myself sorry. Typical Double sizes are different the typical casements and using replacement windows a 3'-0" x 5'-6" current double hung opening would make for a odd size casement replacement unit was my point and vice versa.
mmarse1
11 years ago
MWM
a 24 x 42 casement woud be the sae size as a 24 x 42 doule hung. im more confused than homeseaed. obviously im missing something.

to the question, homesealed really summed it up well.
millworkman
11 years ago
Yes they would be the same but what I meant and am doing a poor job of typing it is a 3'-0" x 5'-6" Dbl Hung would be fine in a house where as a 3'-0" x 5'-6" casement would look odd and be somewhat unusual.
HomeSealed
11 years ago
Very true... The size and orientation of the opening will lend itself to some configurations more than others, like an opening that is wider than it is tall would look more natural as a slider than a DH in most cases. Definitely something to be mindful of :)
millworkman
11 years ago
LOL, sorry it took me three posts to get that point out. I was thinking that exact thought but could not get it to my fingers.
PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
11 years ago
Thats what happens when you have those man hands Herb.

Here is a link that might be useful:

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