Three Types of Replacement Home Windows
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If you have never worked with replacement home windows before, you probably do not know all the intricacies of choosing and installing them. You might think that a replacement is a replacement, and not understand where you need to measure, what you need to buy, or how to install it. There are three main types of setups you can buy to replace your windows.
New Construction Windows
The name “new construction windows” is a bit of a misnomer because it sounds as if you will only need them if you are building a new house or addition. Actually, whether you use new construction windows or not depends on whether or not you need to replace rotten or worn casings. It is important to inspect your windows and casings before you get your replacement home windows for this reason. You can also get different sizes or shapes of windows than you previously had if you install new construction windows.
New construction windows include the frame and a nailing fin to attach it from the outside of the home. If you choose this type of installation, you will have to remove the exterior around the window. This type of windows may indeed be used for new houses, but if it is used for replacement it takes considerable skill to install them correctly. Once they are installed, the outer edges of the window must be put back as they were, with stucco blended in, siding covered, or bricks replaced. A home remodeling company can help you decide if you need this type of windows, and if so they can install them properly.
Window Inserts
Many replacement home windows are actually inserts. They are made to fit into an existing frame. If your window frame is a standard size, you can get a window insert to fit it without having to special-order it. However many windows, especially older ones, do not correspond to the standard measurements available ready-made in stores. You will have to custom order them.
If you are going to use inserts for replacement home windows, the installation must be done carefully. The opening must be measured precisely and the window must be prepared with attention to detail. The window inserts that are bought must be precisely the ones that are required for the window casing.
Retrofit Windows
For the purposes of energy conservation, putting a new insert in an old casing is considered a repair and not an improvement. This is because the sash and framing of the window must be updated to increase the energy efficiency of a window in most cases. Adding triple panes will increase the energy efficiency even more.
Retrofit windows are designed to fit within the exact space of the previous window and casing. Yet, they are new windows with all the energy-efficient features now available for replacement home windows. Retrofit windows can be placed very quickly by the experienced installers of a home remodeling company. It will definitely save you time, and if it keeps you from making costly mistakes it will save you money as well. Get the best help with your replacement home windows, and you will be happy you did.