New construction and replacement windows can both represent the best choice for property owners in Illinois. New construction windows are better if you are remodeling an entire wall and also want to replace your windows.
Replacement windows, on the other hand, are better if you only intend to replace your windows without damaging or altering the wall system. You can learn more about both of these options with a Naperville window replacement and installation company.
When Are New Construction Windows Better?
New construction windows may represent the best choice for your remodeling project if you want to:
- Put an addition on your home
- Replace windows in a badly damaged wall
- Replace windows and substantially rebuild a wall at the same time
Manufacturers design new construction windows to fit in clear openings that have no siding or trim. These windows come with attachment fins (also called nailing fins or flanges) on their exterior side. Installation professionals use these fins to keep the window properly in place.
In the debate on which is better, new construction or replacement windows, new construction wins if you can access the interior of the wall for some reason.
When Are Replacement Windows Better?
Replacement windows (also called insert windows) are generally the best choice if you want to replace windows in a wall in good condition. These windows do not have flanges or nailing fins; instead, they have smooth sides that make them easier to insert and reduce installation time.
Replacement windows are a better choice if you do not want to disturb the walls of your house. Naperville exterior remodeling professionals can quickly remove a damaged window and put in a replacement window, reducing the disruption to your life.
So, if someone asks you to compare new construction vs. replacement windows to decide which is better, you can tell them that it depends on the nature of your renovation project.
What’s More Expensive: New Construction or Replacement Windows?
In many cases, you pay more for the installation of new construction windows. However, prices can vary depending on the number of windows you want to install, their size, the material you select for the frame, and other factors.
For example, you will likely pay less to install a double-hung, 24 inches wide, and 36 inches tall new construction window than you would for a custom replacement picture window.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to reach out to a local window replacement company to get a quote for your renovation job so you know exactly what to expect from the cost of the project.
You Can Finance Replacement and New Construction Window Installation or Replacement
You have financing options when building your budget for window replacement or installation projects. Your renovation company may allow you to apply for financing online or over the phone without any application fees.
What Lasts Longer: New Construction or Replacement Windows?
Properly installed new construction and replacement windows should last roughly the same amount of time. Your new windows may last for decades, depending on the material you select for the frame and the skill of your installation techs.
Windows with composite, fiberglass, and vinyl frames generally last longer than those with wooden frames. You can discuss all your options when you reach out to renovation professionals.
A remodeling technician can also provide more information about the difference between insert windows and new construction windows.
What Takes Longer to Install: New Construction or Replacement Windows?
New construction windows generally take substantially more time to install than replacement windows. Installation crews must carefully work with the nailing fins and flanges, taking time to level the new construction window properly.
Replacement windows, on the other hand, can often slide directly into the frame used by the previous window. The process takes much less time, especially when you hire highly-trained replacement crews to complete the job.
The exterior remodeling company you hire to complete the installation can give you an estimate of the job’s duration.
Do New Construction and Replacement Windows Use the Same Kind of Glass?
In most cases, you will have the same glass options when purchasing either replacement or new construction windows. For example, you may select from options including:
- Double-pane glass
- Triple-pane glass
- Low-E glass
Manufacturers offer these options for both kinds of windows. You can also explore a range of frame options, styles, and colors for both new construction and replacement windows, allowing you to personalize your home through the renovation process.
Talk to Us About the Replacement and New Construction of Windows
So, which is better: new construction or replacement windows? These windows have different purposes. New construction windows are ideal if you add to your home or replace windows in an area with badly damaged walls.
Replacement windows, on the other hand, work well if you want to replace your old windows without damaging the surrounding walls.
Learn more about both options with our team at Opal Enterprises. We can handle all your exterior renovation needs when you call or complete our online contact form.
