Whenbuying windowsfor your home, you are confronted with two types of windows:replacement windowsandnew-constructionwindows.
Do you’re gonna wanna make a choice between the windows?
Where would you use replacement windows vs. new-construction windows?
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New-construction and replacement windows are mutually exclusive.
Replacement windows are used when the wall system stays in place and just the existing window needs replacement.
New-Construction Windows vs. New-construction windows have nailing or attachment fins, or flanges, on the exterior side of the window.
Some new-construction windows have detachable nailing flanges.
Replacement Windows:Replacement windows replace existing new-construction or replacement windows.
Replacement windows have no nailing fins or flanges.
They are smooth-sided for easy insertion.
Even so, ordering and installing replacement windows is not a common DIY project.
In this case, the wall needs to be extensively rebuilt.
New-construction windows are a better product to use in a new wall system.
Performance
New-Construction Windows:New-construction windows are weather-tight when installed correctly.
The IGU, or insulated glass unit, is the same as the replacement window’s IGU.
Replacement Windows:Replacement windowscan be tricky for do-it-yourselfers to install due to exacting tolerances.
There is never a need to use replacement windows since nowindows are being replaced.
All new homes use new-constructionwindows.
Building an Addition
An addition is a smaller version of a new house.
A new-construction window will be more substantial and will provide better insulation from the elements than a replacement window.
Because of the attached nailing fins, it will be more weather-tight than replacement windows.
Usually, replacement windows do require some minimal, temporary alterations, such as the removal of interior trim.
Some painting is usually required after the trim has been replaced.
While this is not common, in a few cases it is possible.
Some brands of new-construction windows have fins that are designed to be snapped or cut off.
This provides the greatest possible utility to these windows.
You may compromise the window’s structure or break theglass in the sashwhile cutting.
