Window installation is a major endeavor for every household. You have two main options: replacement windows or new construction windows. Andersen replacement windows are used in home remodeling projects, and new construction windows are used in new buildings.
Let’s explore the main difference between new construction and replacement windows.
When to Use Replacement Windows?
What is a replacement window? Replacement windows are intended to replace pre-existing home windows. These are the most common windows used in home and window renovations.
1. When Replacing an Existing Window
Installing new construction windows in old homes can cost you more money and time, along with damage, than replacing a window. The components of the window, wall, frame, and siding are all interconnected. That means that changing one of them would affect the others.
Replacement windows provide better benefits because they are built to slip horizontally while modifying the least number of possible components. Old construction windows usually necessitate particular minor, temporary changes, such as the elimination of body panels. Nevertheless, if the panel is removed correctly, it can usually be substituted with ease. After the trim has been removed, some re-painting is typically recommended.
2. When Using New-Construction Windows With Detachable Fins
Though this is not usual, it is likely in some instances that if new construction windows have molded fins and replacement windows do not, you should remove the attached fins on the former and convert them to the latter.
A few windows new construction have fins that are designed primarily to be snapped or pulled off. This gives these windows the most functionality possible.
Slashing off the rounded fins from new construction windows that don't have retractable fins isn't a brilliant idea in theory. When cutting, you risk shattering the glass in the pane or damaging the window frame. Smoothing down the exterior sides of the window to ensure that it slips securely into place and stays weather-resistant can also be difficult.
When to Use New Construction Windows
A new construction window is installed in brand new houses or additions to already existing homes. New construction windows, unlike replacement windows, must be mounted directly on the framing using a nail fin mount. The home's exterior is not finished until the installation is complete.
1. When Building a New House
The construction of a new house is an excellent example of new architecture, necessitating the use of new construction windows. Since no windows are being replaced, there is never a requirement to use them. New construction windows are, therefore, installed in all new buildings.
2. When Building an Addition
You will probably always use a new construction window for the modifications unless you are faced with a very unexpected situation. The only time you may not choose to use a new construction window is if your extension includes a part of an existing wall.
3. When Replacing an Extremely Bad Window
The space around a window in poor condition is often, if not always, in a bad state as well. It is possible that rust, rot, or termites may have caused damage to elements such as the window panes and frames, interior drywall, floor covering, etc.
Since intensive carpentry work is required, installing a new construction window would be just as quick, convenient, and inexpensive as installing a replacement window. A replacement window would be less extensive and offer less protection from the elements than a new construction window. A new construction window installation would be more weather-tight than replacement windows due to the attached nailing fins.
Cost Comparisons
New construction windows are always installed for the first time in walls. Since there is no siding or drywall inside, you can install windows of any size or design. This would cost you comparatively less than a replacement window both labor and capital-wise. While a new construction window costs around $300 to $400 per window, a replacement window may cost $500, excluding the added labor work that would bring up the total to $750 per window.
Closing Thoughts
When it comes to a large-scale remodeling scheme, avoid taking risks to cut corners. In the long term, using a product that was made especially for substitution would save you a lot of effort, trouble, and hopefully money.
However, when it comes to home renovation ventures, it is best to get help from a reputable agency or a general contractor. A skilled contractor like us will educate you on the costs of new construction and replacement windows, as well as the advantages of both so that you can choose the right window for your needs. Contact us today to learn more.
