Replies

1. 
   jimblodgett | Sep 19, 2011 03:05pm | #1

   terminology

   Don't get too caught up in the word "replacement".  If you remove a window and install another in it's place, the new one is a "replacement" window.

   Most windows can be replaced, most can serve as replacements.  The single biggest issue is ordering the right size replacement unit.  Most modern windows include nailing fins.  Lots of time we remove that fin and screw through the jamb to secure the replacement unit instead of fastening through the (now missing) nailing fin.

   Some companies make "replacement" sash for their jambs.  So if you have an older home with a major brand of windows that were installed in the 60's for example, you might be able to upgrade the sash and weatherstripping.

   And then there is all the building science surrounding "U" values of the glazing AND the frames. 

   If you're going to invest in better windows, get some onsite advice from a professional.  Even if you have to pay for a couple hours of their time it'd be worthwhile.  Replacing windows isn't extremely complex, but it's not simple either.  You could spend a lot of money without significantly improving performance. 

2. 
   calvin | Sep 19, 2011 03:10pm | #2

   Confused? not that hard.

   Windows-

   Used to be, you could get this and that size window-close, but different for every damn company.

   If you framed for one, the "almost" same size window from a different manufacturer, wouldn't fit.

   Then, you could get some of these larger companies to make it custom sized, for usually big dollars.

   Eventually, around came the vinyls, made any size you wanted-these took on the name replacement window.

   Now, you have even more options. There are finless wood sashed units that I consider True replacement windows-those that you pull the old sash and use the existing frames to hold the new windows-These allow you to leave the existing exterior and interior window trims on, you are merely replacing the old operating sash with new that happen to include all the benefits of a new frame.

   Further, several companies will build to 1/4 inch increments, a new fully functional window (sash and frame).  This allows you to fit it in the same rough opening, (but probably changing out the trims both inside and out (OR-one or the other).  They might come with a fin, but you have the option of mounting finless is you wish-jamb clips or fastening through the frame.

   To me, replacement windows allow you to replace the old with new, yet not changing out the trims (in/out) if you don't want to.

   In addition, New construction windows are those commonly used on a new house-finned and standard sized;

   Back when I started, if you wanted to swap out windows, you were stuck finding what came close to fitting in your originals rough opening and then making it work.  Was no picnic, but was usually a world of upgrade compared to what leaky wore out thing you were replacing.

1. 
   merlvern | Sep 19, 2011 03:31pm | #3

   got it,....i think :)

   thanks for the advice guys,

   so i was getting lost in the vocabulary huh?

   sounds like it boils down to using existing trim or not? in my case i plan on using my own.

   it seemed that if "replacement" windows preserved the old trim, then "new" windows would provide trim.....right?, um no?

   it's really about "new" having the "flange" nailer for securing to the sheathing.....right?

   in any case, if you have the flange and can use it....in my case i'll be able to (since i'm replacing the trim, and that with larger), would then i still screw thru the jam into the framing?

   thanks for everything

   ps, andersen offers, "windows", "replacement windows", and "full frame replacement windows"....jeez!

1. 
   calvin | Sep 19, 2011 04:59pm | #4

   merl

   Please seek out and read the instruction sheets on any and all windows.  Keeping water out is no longer a matter of slathering caulk behind the nailing fin.

   Each manufacturer has a set of instructions (many similar in steps and procedures) but all say at the end, do it this way or any warranty is void..................or something to that effect.

   And no, new const. windows do not provide trim-in or out.

   But, Andersen  does have a snap on exterior casing that looks interesting and is certainly easy to install.

   Still, what's behind any trim is the important part (and what flashes over that trim).

3. 
   BossHog | Sep 19, 2011 07:43pm | #5

   To me, a "regular" window has

   To me, a "regular" window has nailing fins, and a replacement window doesn't.

   Maybe a bit oversimplified.  But that's how I see it.

1. 
   merlvern | Sep 20, 2011 09:21am | #6

   got it

   thanks boss!