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age old question: replacement windows or new construction windows.?

I am looking to install new windows in my house. I have done a some research, but need some additional help. i am debating doing new construction or replacement windows. i understand ultimately that it comes down to costs differences. right off the bat: in terms of quality of build, and efficiency is a new contruction window better than a replacement window? right now, i am leaning towards going with Anderson 400 series tilt-wash double-hung windows. Im my community (i live in a townhouse) almost everyone installs replacement windows. However, i plan on staying here for quite some time and am not looking for the cheapest possible option. Quality, efficiency and look all matter greatly to me...as well as resale value on my place when it comes time to sell. So a friend of my mine who is a framer by trade wants to put in all new construction windows in my house. His idea is to take a measurement of the rough opening and then order the next smaller size window. In this case, I am going with Anderson b/c he gets a good deal on them. So when we took measurements and then referred to the anderson book, we found that for all of my 13 windows, the next smaller size was only 1/2" difference for both height and width. with that, to make up the 1/4" difference on each side, he wants to rip some 2x4 to fill in the 1/4" difference. if it even needs it. so basically... from what ive gathered, new construction windows will be almost a direct fit right into the original framing of the house. doing new construction will also allow me to make sure that the framing is structuraly sound. going with replacement, i might not find that out b/c from what ive learned, the old window frame is still used and only they only just pop out the trackings and glass. i understand that we will have to take siding down in order to get access to the nailing flange and to nail in the new window...but we shouldnt have to trim the siding b/c the frame is staying the same size. so is my logic correct? does this all make sense and sound like a much better way for me to replace the windows in my house is with new construction? the cost difference in materials is going to be about 2000-2500. what does everyone think? stick with replacements or go the new construction route?

Public Comments

1. Given the option, I'd definitely go with complete new windows rather than inserts. This gives you the option to check the insulation around them and seal tightly. It's more work, and more money as you know, but it's worth it. Good luck.


2. if they fit that close then definitely replace them with new ones. you won't need that 1/4" spacer around them either, as you will need that space to level off the windows. in case you don't know how to install windows I'll give you the run down.

   *remove siding and unnail old window.

   *check frame for structural damage and replace and damaged or rotten boards.

   * place a flat crowbar or screwdriver on sill where the window will sit and place window on top of it.

   *use the crowbar/screwdriver to pry window up and side to side.

   *look at the crack around the window and get it close to level all the way around just by eye for now.

   *have your buddy nail the bottom corner of one side.

   *move prybar under other side and have your buddy put the level under the outside of window and tell you up or down till its level and hold while he nails that bottom corner.

   * now have him put level on side of window and use pry to move the top left and right until level and nail top corners.

   *open and close window to check operation if not working right recheck the level on bottom and side. when all is level and working fine nail sides good (about 6" apart if aluminum window, and every hole if vinyl window) the top and bottom are usually not nailed to protect the window from shattering if the header on top of it sags over the years from the weight of the roof.

   and you were right replacement window are just basically an expensive glass change for the most part.



3. You would be spending all that money for nothing in the end. It almost seems like you are trying to talk yourself into the idea that spending more money gets you a better product. Replacement windows if installed correctly will perform on a level with new ones. The idea of taking the siding off and inspecting the framing does nothing for me. If you do not have obvious framing problems there is no reason to just start ripping out stuff. The only proper way to measure for new construction windows is to actually measure the rough opening for the window. Did your framing friend actually take off every windows indoor trim to do this? I would bet that in the end he does not know as much as he thinks he does for this project. In new construction the windows are chosen first and then the rough opening dimension is framed to match the windows specifications. The replacing of your windows this way will require the rough opening to be confirmed on EVERY window opening and then used to order the window units as once you order them you cannot change your mind. They typically have an error factor built into the rough opening dimension to allow for adjustment and shimming.

   On replacement windows they are ordered in eighth inch increments so the fit will be just as good as new windows. They are leveled, caulked, and can be ordered to color match with quality as good as the windows you are looking at. I believe that Andersen has a line of replacement windows.

   To summarize I feel that from your choice of window and contractor friend need more thought. I would call two other firms for their advice before starting in on this project. Any of the big box stores have window specialists that can advise you as well as local representatives of the major window manufacturers. Hope this helps.



4. You have received a lot of good answers. The only problem I see is that a carpenter Framer shouldn't know a lot about windows.

   The rough opening and the unit dimension of a window are different.

   Take one window and remove all the trim around it, get the rough opening width and height - and check with the andersen book.

   Also remember the jamb or wall thickness so you can order the appropriate jamb extensions.

   You do know you will need to install new window trim,sill and apron under the sill?

   As far as taking off the old siding - We usually just make a line on the sides of the new window on the existing siding about 3-5/8" away from the sides of the new window line. Cut the siding on this line on both sides, and above. Remove the old window, set the new one. Now slip a pc. of J-mold over the newly cut vertical edge of siding you cut back on sides and top. Now install a 1" x 4" between the new j-mold and the edges of the window - leave about 1/8" gap on edges. Now bend and fit aluminum coil to wrap the 1" x .Caulk edges against j-mold and window. This gives the window a nice clean frame line rather than the siding just running up to the window. This way no siding needs to be taken off the house, and it sets off the window nicely.

   Install extension jambs/trim out,caulk and paint/stain.

   Replacement windows serve a purpose - however if you can afford the new construction windows - you won't need to worry about weather the old frames will hold up, if some wood on the frame is rotten.

   Plus a lot of vinyl replacement window companies go out of business each year due to defects in glass,frames,etc. Then they just start back up under a different name. Andersen,Pella,Peachtree have been around a long time - they aren't going anywhere. I can order a sash for a 15 year old Andersen window and have it in 2 weeks. A made to order vinyl replacement sash has to have everything special made to that specific size - you don't want to know how long that can take to get in.

   Now you have a lot better clue as to what you might want to do.

   Good Luck