About Retrofit Windows
Retrofit windows, also known as replacement windows, allow homeowners to replace their old windows without removing the exterior materials for installation. In homes with older windows, you may have noticed air leaking or frost build-up on the inside part of the window. If your windows are in need of replacement and it comes time to make the decision to replace your windows, there are a variety of options to consider. In this article, we’ll explain the difference between retrofit windows vs. new construction for replacement windows.
Installation of Retrofit Windows
For homeowners who simply want to replace their windows without a large project, considering retrofit windows is an excellent option. Retrofit windows will not allow you to change the size or placement of the existing windows. The installation of retrofit windows involves replacing the glass, while the window frame inside the stucco remains the same. A new glass piece, which is energy efficient, is installed. This process is called retrofitting because it allows you to take out an existing window and replace the glass without having to change the window frame.
Retrofit Windows vs. New Construction
When considering new windows, another option is new construction. When compared to retrofit windows, this process is a bit more involved and may take longer. New construction windows are necessary in situations where there is serious damage to the existing window frames. If they cannot be repaired, it is likely you’ll need new construction windows. In areas where there is moisture or mold, it may also be a good idea to replace the entire window with new construction windows.
Advantages and Disadvantages
When comparing and contrasting retrofit windows vs. new construction windows, there are several components to consider. One advantage to new construction windows is that they will fit flush with the house and appear all uniform with other windows in the home. The new construction involves replacing the window frame, which means the frame will be secured to the frame of the home.
There are also some clear advantages to choosing retrofit windows, depending on the needs and condition of your existing windows. Retrofit windows are much quicker and easier to install. This is because, as mentioned previously, it leaves the existing window frame intact. If your window frames are in good condition, choosing retrofit windows may save you significant money over choosing new construction windows. As such, we recommend that you have an experienced professional assess the situation to determine the best solution for the windows in your home.
As with any decision, there are both pros and cons to each choice. There is one clear disadvantage to consider if you’re thinking about choosing retrofit windows. The process of installing retrofit windows is dependent on the condition of the window’s existing frame. This means that if there are any issues, such as a settled frame, this can be problematic for installation. In addition, if you’re looking to change the size of the windows, retrofit windows are limiting in that you must replace the glass with the same size. For those seeking an option that allows them to put different sizes or newly placed windows, you will need to choose new construction windows.
One disadvantage of choosing new construction windows is simply that it involves a lot of work. The people doing the installation will need to remove a section of the exterior wall of your house to do this process. This means you may be disrupted and have a longer overall process than choosing retrofit windows. Another disadvantage is the overall cost of new construction windows. These windows are already more expensive than retrofit windows, as they require a new frame. However, additional charges may pop up as you will also need to replace the siding that was damaged during installation.
New construction windows will also appear like brand new! While this is obviously an advantage for some, some people prefer the look of older windows if it matches the style of their home. This is something to consider when thinking about which types of windows to use in your home.
Looking for expert advice and installation for your windows? Select Glass and Windows is a leader in all things related to glass! We provide glass repair, replacement and installation, safety glass, and security glass for a variety of different homes in businesses in the Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC area. Give us a call today for a free estimate to help guide your window replacement search!
If you’d like to schedule your free estimate give us a call at (703) 348-3517 or click here to contact us.
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