Replacement Windows vs New Construction Windows

When it comes to the difference between replacement windows, also called retro-fit windows or doors there are only a few differences to take into consideration. New windows come with a nail fin that is made to be put directly into the rough opening with the wall material covering the fin upon completion. Windows for replacement can be ordered with different types of fins and can be installed over the existing original frame in some cases. Depending on where you live there is a good chance that having new windows will increase not only the value of your home but also the energy efficiency and possibly save money overall on your household energy costs.

Types of Material Replacement Windows are made of:

Most windows are made from about 5 different materials. Each material can have different pros and cons depending upon environment, cost, longevity etc. Let’s take a look at the most popular window and door types.

Vinyl Replacement Windows and Patio Doors

Vinyl is the top-selling type of window. Vinyl is known for being extremely durable and offer years of energy efficient performance with very little maintenance required. Some vinyl windows can’t be painted but can be found in different decorative colors. Jeld-Wen is a popular window company that has available products at Home Depot.

Jeld-Wen offers nicely priced windows and patio doors for new construction and retro-fit replacements

Wood and Clad-Wood Windows

When you go with classic wood you’ll get the beautiful natural looks for exteriors and interiors. If the external elements are an issue you can use a clad-wood which offers a low-maintenance layer of metal that can protect your wood windows on the outside. The great thing about wood is you’ll have many options to stain, paint, and customize the look.

Aluminum Replacement Windows

What we like about aluminum windows in Phoenix are not only that they are lightweight and strong they are also good for warmer climates. Heat loss is not a huge issue in Arizona and the fact that aluminum frames are known to be very cost effective and easy to maintain. Cascade Windows offers some very nice aluminum frame windows in their 4250 Series Window.

Cascade is a nice brand to do some research on if considering replacement windows

New Fiberglass Windows

Fiberglass windows and other popular creations have come along in recent years when it comes to good material for construction. Some of the benefits of fiberglass windows are they are good in extreme climates. Fiberglass is made from tiny glass fibers. These little fibers fuse together to form sheets of material that can bond like plastic.

 

If you are looking for replacement windows or patio doors and you live in the Valley of the Sun give us a call.

Valleywide Glass LLC

Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, Tempe, Peoria, Surprise, Scottsdale, Avondale, Paradise Valley