New Construction vs. Replacement Windows: What Are the Differences?
You might be surprised to learn that windows are responsible for up to 25 to 30 percent of heat gain or loss within a home. Selecting the material and design of your home’s windows is a more important decision than you might realize. After all, anyone buying windows should want them to function well for as long as possible.
One of the most frequent window-buying dilemmas is whether to go with replacement or new construction windows. How much do you know about the differences between new construction vs. replacement windows? Read on to learn more about the differences between them.
What Does “New Construction” or “Replacement” Mean?
If deciding between these window choices is new to you, the first question you have might be “What are replacement windows?” Well, replacement windows are made to fit pre-existing window openings in a home.
As such, they are very easy to install. No exterior parts of your home will need to be removed. All that a window installer needs to do is measure the opening, then put in a window that’s the perfect fit.
New construction windows, on the other hand, are for new buildings or home additions. During construction, an opening is made for new construction windows while the wooden sheeting is still exposed. This is what allows for a new construction window to be installed.
Now you might wonder, “Okay, if an opening needs to be made for them, then what are new construction windows good for?”. As it turns out, new construction windows can prove just the structural update a home needs.
New Construction vs. Replacement Windows: Advantages and Disadvantages
Buying new construction or replacement windows means knowing the perks and drawbacks of each.
Firstly, new construction windows are easier to obtain and can be found at most home centers. Replacement windows must fit a pre-existing opening precisely. This means you will likely have more difficulty finding the exact measurement you need.
You might notice that new construction windows have some special attachments. These exterior fins or flanges make for easier nailing or attachment.
Replacement windows lack these, as their size is already made to fit perfectly within an opening. Because of this, the fit must be just right. This often makes for a more challenging installation to do without a quality window replacement company.
Overall, replacement windows are the choice you should go with if the building you’re installing them in is in good, reliable shape. However, if your home needs some structural reinforcement, a new construction window adds an extra measure of fortification.
Stay In-the-Know To Protect Your Home
The new construction vs. replacement windows decision is far from the only important one when choosing windows for your home. From frame material glass UV protection, keeping yourself informed is the first step toward making the right choice.
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