Replacement vs New Construction Windows: What’s the Difference?

Many homeowners are faced with the question of whether or not to get replacement windows or new construction windows. When comparing replacement vs new construction windows, there are many key differences that make each one more suitable for a specific situation.

The answer may seem simple – you choose new construction windows when you’re building a new home. However, there’s much more to consider and many homeowners don’t realize the significance of their differences.

In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about replacement vs new construction windows from what they are to which is best for your home.

What Are Replacement Windows?

Replacement windows can come in two different methods of installation – full frame replacement and pocket replacement. The condition of your home as well as what you’re specifically looking for will determine which is best for you.

A full frame replacement window involves removing the entire existing window, frame, moldings and jambs, giving you a completely new unit. A full frame replacement is best when your existing frame and woodwork around your window is in bad condition.

Another reason to get a full frame replacement is if you want different framing and woodwork than you currently have and want to replace it. This often is the case for people moving into new homes and don’t like the current design.

Pocket replacement is when you have framing and woodwork that’s still in good condition and/or you like the design, but just need the window itself.

There’s no real better option between a full frame and pocket replacement because it all depends on what your home needs and what you want. There are many different styles of replacement windows that can match any home design.

What’s a New Construction Window?

New construction windows are used when you’re building a new home, adding an addition onto your current home or simply adding a window where one wasn’t before. Any time you don’t have an opening for the window you want to install, then you’ll need new construction windows.

However, there are some cases where homeowners choose to install replacement windows in an opening they recently made instead of getting new construction windows.

One of the limits of new construction windows is that they’re usually less energy efficient and of lesser quality than replacement windows.

Why, you ask? When builders are building a new home or an addition, they’re looking to save as much money as possible and windows often get less attention than other parts of the home.

When you’re building a new home, you’ll most likely be paying more attention to bigger things like the kitchen and bathrooms instead of what windows are the most energy efficient.

Other Differences Between Replacement vs New Construction Windows

Besides what they’re actually used for and when you should use each kind, there are some key differences between replacement windows and new construction windows.

For example, we mentioned that people often overlook windows when building a new home. However, when you’re replacing your windows, you’re looking for the absolute best product for your home and not just a placeholder.

Replacement windows are designed much differently because there’s more attention to detail. It’s not a cookie-cutter, mass produced product like most new construction windows. Your replacement windows will be custom made to fit your current opening precisely and securely.

Take a company like Feldco, for example. We specialize in replacement windows and our products are extremely energy efficient and made to last throughout the tough seasons of the Midwest. Insulated and reinforced frames are just a piece of the puzzle. You can learn more about the benefits of our windows in our brochure.

Another thing that differs between replacement and new construction windows is the cost. You might think that new construction windows come at a lower cost since they’re not the same quality as replacement windows.

However, with new construction you have to create the opening and everything that encases the window from scratch, which usually ends up more than a typical replacement window project.

Also, since the new construction windows aren’t as good of a product, you’ll end up having to replace them down the road anyway.

Replacement Windows vs New Construction Windows: Make the Right Choice

When it’s all said and done, there’s only two ways you can go about getting new windows – new construction or replacement. It’s important to know which option to choose so that you get your money’s worth.

When you’re doing a new construction project, be mindful of the windows you’re getting installed. Make sure that you’re getting an energy efficient option and remember to ask about the energy ratings of the windows.

If replacement windows are what you’re looking for, you can rest assured knowing Feldco has the solution for you. As America’s #1 window company, we know a thing or two about replacement.

Our products combined with professional installation will have your home looking beautiful and your energy bills lowered.

You can start your window replacement project today with a free quote online and join the over 400,000 homeowners who’ve trusted us with their home improvement projects.