
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.
Full Answer
What is the difference between new construction and replacement windows?
You'll also want to use new-construction windows if:
- this is a new house
- this is an addition
- this is a severely damaged wall that needs much repair work
- the wall is being substantially rebuilt for any reason
How do you replace new construction windows?
Step-by-Step Flashing, Installation and Trimming Instructions
- Frame the Window Frame the rough opening for the window in the desired section of the wall. ...
- Install the Weather-Resistant Barrier
- Cut the WRB
- Install the Sill Flashing
- Install the Window
- Install the Side and Top Flashing
- Install the Top Flashing
- Install the Window Trim
- Install the Z-Flashing
- Fold Down the WRB
What are the types of replacement windows?
Window Types
- Double Hung Windows. Double hung windows offer a classic look. ...
- Single Hung Windows. Single hung windows look similar to double hung models, but only the lower sash is operable. ...
- Sliding Windows. ...
- Accent Windows. ...
- Glass Block Windows. ...
- Basement Hopper Windows. ...
How to install vinyl windows new construction?
How to install a new window in a house with vinyl siding. 1. Measure the existing window to purchase a replacement. If you are replacing a window then the first thing you will want to do is to measure the existing window so that you can order a replacement. Measure the width, height, and diagonal of the window from frame edge to frame edge ...

What is the difference between a replacement window and a new construction window?
What's the difference between replacement windows and new construction windows? The fundamental difference between replacement and new construction windows is that replacement windows fit right into the existing frame while new construction windows require the existing frame to be removed and replaced.
Are new construction or replacement windows more expensive?
Although new construction windows are typically around 10% to 15% more expensive to buy than replacement types, the cost to install these windows is significantly more. Expect to pay, on average, $150 to $800 for new construction window installation compared to $100 to $300 for replacement window installation.
Can you use a new construction window as a replacement?
Can New Construction Windows Be Used for Replacement? New construction windows can be used for replacement window projects in two ways. Remember, the only difference between a new construction window and a replacement window is the nail fin.
Are new windows really worth it?
Installing new home windows are definitely worth the investment depending on what you are looking to get from them. Replacement windows bring value by increasing your home's resale value, increasing energy efficiency and increase your home's overall aesthetics.
Do new construction windows have sills?
Depending on where you buy your new construction window, you may or may not get a screen along with it. This is solely upon the seller's discretion. Sills, on the other hand, are almost always a separate purchase.
Do new construction windows come with screens?
So, remember: it's best to screen out the window companies that don't include screens with their installed windows. As for C5 Windows from Conservation Construction Of Texas, they always come with screens included.
How do you seal new construction windows?
5:287:55How to Install a New Window | New Construction | DIY Guide - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCreating a really nice tight water seal around the flange of the window. So I apply a generous beadMoreCreating a really nice tight water seal around the flange of the window. So I apply a generous bead around the nailing flange right along the nail holes.
Can I use retrofit windows in new construction?
These windows have high energy-efficiency ratings as they help insulate your home, saving you money on your energy bill. Homeowners can use replacement windows for both standard window replacement and new construction. This is a great option for those who don't want to expose the home frame.
What is new construction windows?
New construction windows are primarily made for newly built homes or other new construction such as a home addition. They have a component called a nail-fin frame, which allows the windows to be nailed directly onto the home's framing. This doesn't mean they can only be used on newly constructed homes.
Are new windows tax deductible?
2021 Window & Door Tax Credit You may be entitled to a tax credit of up to $500** if you installed energy-efficient windows, skylights, doors or other qualifying items in 2018-2021**. Federal tax credits for certain energy-efficient improvements to existing homes have been extended through December 31, 2021.
How much glass do you lose with replacement windows?
That frame-within-a-frame design means you end up losing about an inch or so of visible glass all the way around the window. It's not a huge deal… but it's certainly not ideal. Old windows can last another 100 years if properly maintained.
Why are new windows so expensive?
Window replacement is so expensive mainly comes down to the custom nature of windows and their labor-intensive installation. Each home has different sized, styled windows, which means higher manufacturing costs for contractors.
Why are new windows so expensive?
Window replacement is so expensive mainly comes down to the custom nature of windows and their labor-intensive installation. Each home has different sized, styled windows, which means higher manufacturing costs for contractors.
What does new construction mean on windows?
New construction windows are used when a brand new home or a new addition to a home is being built. Since the studs of the home are exposed the window can be installed directly on to the frame by use of a nail fin frame, which means it is nailed into the framing of the home.
How much should a good window cost?
The national average for window replacement cost is typically $650 per window, or between $200 and $1,800. The average price to replace windows on a 3-bedroom house is between $3,000 to $10,000.
How much should I spend on windows?
Window Replacement CostWindow Cost Estimator*Average Cost$600Lowest Cost$200Highest Cost$1,200Jul 18, 2022
What is the difference between replacement windows and new windows?
Physical differences between replacement and new windows. Replacement windows are designed so that the installer doesn't have to remove any exterior materials of a home. The windows are measured to fit the existing window opening perfectly and special ordered.
What is a new construction window?
New construction windows are designed to be installed into a brand-new home, an addition to a home, or when the studs are exposed. The new construction window has a component called a nail fin frame, which means the windows will be nailed directly onto the frame. The only time you might consider a new construction window to replace an existing ...
What is replacement window?
Replacement windows are defined as windows installed into a pre-existing window opening, while new construction windows are designed for homes that have yet to be constructed or used in the instances where an existing window has to be removed (down to the studs of the walls) before it can be replaced.
Why do we install windows from the inside?
This enables the windows to be installed from the inside of the home without damaging the wall, window trim or siding , which saves time and money because the installation is quicker and less invasive, as the only part of the home that will be touched is the window itself.
Why are replacement windows developed?
Replacement windows have been developed so that the installer does not have to remove any exterior materials of a home. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Manuel R. of Portland, Oregon)
Do replacement windows take longer to install?
Although it can take more skill to ensure a secure, airtight fit with replacement windows, installing new construction windows takes longer. There’s more structural work and refinishing around the edges to consider with this route.
When replacing your windows with more energy efficient varieties, it makes sense to stick with retrofitting?
When replacing your windows with more energy-efficient varieties, it makes sense to stick with retrofitting. When done well, it ’s a cost-effective, minimally disruptive method for making this change.
What is replacement window?
Replacement windows are made to replace old windows in an existing home. They are designed to be installed in the existing window frame from the inside of the home. This avoids the removal of any exterior elements and allows for a quick, easy and less invasive installation.
Can new construction windows be used on existing homes?
This doesn’t mean they can only be used on newly constructed homes. There are certain conditions where new construction windows are the best choice for replacing existing windows .
Does Toms River install windows?
Toms River Door and Window can guide you in choosing new windows and professionally install them in your home. We have been providing high-quality door and replacement window installation in New Jersey for decades. We have extensive experience working with all types of replacement windows as well as Restorations full-frame replacement window systems.
Is it cheaper to replace windows in an existing home?
Replacement windows are typically the least expensive option when installing new windows in an existing home. Initially, the sticker price of new-construction windows may be less but that can increase significantly when you consider the cost of replacing the existing window frame as well as repairing the surrounding interior and exterior walls. However, if you’re installing windows in new construction or your existing window frames are in poor condition, new- construction windows are the best option and wisest investment.
Can replacement windows be used in new construction?
Replacement windows could still be used but new-construction windows are often more substantial and will not reduce your view. Because replacement windows fit inside the existing window frame you end up with less glass, therefore a smaller view.
Can you replace a window frame?
When you’re ready for new windows, replacement windows are the best option as long as your window frames are in good shape. Installing new-construction windows requires the old frames to be removed from the existing opening. This is done by cutting back the original exterior siding material to remove the old frames. This is a more difficult installation that could cause damage to the area surrounding the window and increase the installation cost.
Does Toms River Door and Window have replacement windows?
Toms River Door and Window also carries ProVia and Sunrise brand replacement windows. Our craftsmanship and commitment to customer service can’t be beat. Call us today for a free estimate!
Why is new construction better than replacement windows?
If you’re looking to change the appearance of your home and add more value, new construction is the way to go because you can change the window style and the trim around them to create a fresh, more attractive look for your home. To make the choice even easier, new construction windows are more readily available, in more styles, materials, and colors, than replacement windows.
What is the difference between replacement and new construction windows?
The fundamental difference between replacement and new construction windows is that replacement windows fit right into the existing frame while new construction windows require the existing frame to be removed and replaced.
Why do we need new construction windows?
Installing new construction windows is a more thorough process requiring the removal of the existing frame and trim, exposing the insulation, and consequently providing an opportunity to fix whatever underlying problems might exist, such as gaps between the window and the frame that can develop over time. Since most energy loss is caused by structural gaps and poor or non-existent insulation, new construction windows enable you to achieve maximum energy efficiency and the ability to resolve a number of window-related issues such as structural water damage caused by leaks behind the siding and flashing around the window. Here in New England, extreme heat and cold can cause expansions and contractions in your home’s shell, enabling ice, water, and air to get in, robbing your home of its energy and potentially causing rot and mildew around your windows. Using replacement windows might not reveal any of this.
Why is window replacement so popular?
The pandemic has created an increased interest in home renovation and remodeling and one of the most popular renovations is window replacement. One of the biggest reasons is energy savings: the US Department of Energy estimates that a typical home can lose as much as 30 percent of its heating and cooling energy through outdated, leaky, and poorly constructed or installed windows. That’s a lot of money flying out the window.
How much does a double hung window cost?
To give you a very general idea of cost, a standard double-hung replacement window, installed, can typically run between $200 and $800 dollars. However, this can be significantly affected by the age and condition of your house, the specific brand of window, and any unique installation issues you might have.
Do window air conditioners fit in replacement windows?
Many homeowners, especially those with older homes, often use these convenient cooling systems. However, window-mounted air conditioners do not fit the same in replacement windows and can stress the frame, eventually compromising it.
Is it better to replace windows or replace them?
There is no situation where replacement windows are better than new construction windows. If cost is your primary concern, it is possible to save some money with replacement windows. But if you factor in long-term value, efficiency, aesthetics, and performance, new construction windows are the clear winners.
Why are replacement windows better than replacement windows?
Replacement windows provide better benefits because they are built to slip horizontally while modifying the least number of possible components.
When to Use Replacement Windows?
What is a replacement window? Replacement windows are intended to replace pre-existing home windows. These are the most common windows used in home and window renovations.
How much does a replacement window cost?
While a new construction window costs around $300 to $400 per window, a replacement window may cost $500, excluding the added labor work that would bring up the total to $750 per window.
What happens when you replace a bad window?
The space around a window in poor condition is often, if not always, in a bad state as well. It is possible that rust, rot, or termites may have caused damage to elements such as the window panes and frames, interior drywall, floor covering, etc.
When building a new house, what is the best example of new architecture?
1. When Building a New House. The construction of a new house is an excellent example of new architecture, necessitating the use of new construction windows. Since no windows are being replaced, there is never a requirement to use them. New construction windows are, therefore, installed in all new buildings.
When building an addition, do you use a new construction window?
You will probably always use a new construction window for the modifications unless you are faced with a very unexpected situation. The only time you may not choose to use a new construction window is if your extension includes a part of an existing wall.
Is it cheaper to install a replacement window or a new construction window?
Since intensive carpentry work is required, installing a new construction window would be just as quick, convenient, and inexpensive as installing a replacement window. A replacement window would be less extensive and offer less protection from the elements than a new construction window. A new construction window installation would be more ...
What is a New Construction Window?
The design of new construction windows includes a “nail fin” which is basically a center flange around the perimeter of the window frame. The fin is used to fasten a window into place and helps with waterproofing.
What is a Replacement Window?
Replacement windows are designed for easy installation into a pre-existing window opening.
What is block frame replacement?
Choose replacement block frame replacement windows. Block frame replacement windows are used in full frame window replacement projects. Window technicians remove the existing window down to the original rough opening and use this opportunity to look for hidden problems. Professionals order windows made to the proper size for the window’s rough opening minimizing any unnecessary space around the window unit. Properly fitting windows are necessary to prevent damaging water or air infiltration.
What is a flush fin window?
Flush Fin Windows. Flush fin windows are typically used for installation in homes with stucco exteriors (they can be used on other home exteriors but are most common on stucco). They’re sometimes called flange windows, z-bar windows, or jump frame windows.
What is block frame window?
Block frame windows include the window’s mainframe (left and right jambs, top header, lower rail) and all the operational parts of the window within ( sash, glass, hardware, etc.). Block frame windows look similar to new construction windows except they don’t have a nail fin around the perimeter.
What is insert window replacement?
Insert window replacement is a replacement window installation process that calls for pocketing a fully assembled window within an existing frame (imagine a secondary frame within an existing frame). Insert windows are sometimes also called pocket windows and are typically used with original solid wood window frames only if the original frame is still in good condition.
Why are windows made at lower price points?
Windows made for new construction homes and builders in mind can be made at lower price points because of volume. Your project costs will likely be higher if you have an existing home and want to do a remodel or addition using windows with nail fins.
What is the difference between replacement windows and new construction windows?
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.
Why are replacement windows designed differently?
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.
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.
What is pocket replacement?
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.
Why do you need a full frame replacement?
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.
What are the limitations of 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.
When do you need new construction windows?
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.
What is the best way to fill a gap between a window and a door?
Could be tiny or big, but it allows the window to be leveled/plumbed properly. Rather than stuffing it with insulation (assuming fiberglass), which isn't going to be much of an air barrier, filling this gap with low-expanding foam is pretty much best practice currently. Dupont Great Stuff (and other brands) have formulations specifically for windows and doors that are less likely to squash the jambs and cause problems with the operation of the windows/doors.
Do you need a water barrier for new windows?
Installation of new windows also requires use of water barrier sheets around the entire opening under exterior material (stucco, siding, etc). Some window manufacturers require this or they void the warranty.
Does a new construction window always mean more glass?
A new construction window does not always mean more glass. It depends on window type and size and manufacturer. When we replaced our old leaky Aluminum windows with AL clad, wood interior windows (Marvin Ultimate), we ended up losing about 6+ inches of glass. The old aluminum had skinny sash while the new ones have large wood pieces inside. The large wood pieces did not affect the views as we feared but they certainly did not yield more glass.
Is there a replacement for aluminum windows?
For our current house, the trim was bad and needed replacement anyway, the framing surrounding the windows had visible water damage and there is no replacement for those poor quality Aluminum windows. The end result was new construction windows.

When to Use Replacement Windows?
When to Use New Construction Windows
- A new construction window is installed in brand new houses or additions to already existing homes. New construction windows, unlike replacement windows, must be mounted directly on the framing using a nail fin mount. The home's exterior is not finished until the installation is complete.
Cost Comparisons
- New construction windows are always installed for the first time in walls. Since there is no siding or drywall inside, you can install windows of any size or design. This would cost you comparatively less than a replacement window both labor and capital-wise. While a new construction window costs around $300 to $400 per window, a replacement window...
Closing Thoughts
- When it comes to a large-scale remodeling scheme, avoid taking risks to cut corners. In the long term, using a product that was made especially for substitution would save you a lot of effort, trouble, and hopefully money. However, when it comes to home renovation ventures, it is best to get help from a reputable agency or a general contractor. A skilled contractor like us will educat…