What to do when there’s not a “clear” winner
When it’s time to update or upgrade your windows, you have the choice between replacement versus new construction windows. Both are solid options, leaving the decision to your budget, preferences, and the condition of your window frames and studs. Learn about new construction versus replacement windows and how to decide which is best for your home.
When comparing replacement vs. new construction windows, the main difference is in the finish details. While the framing and glazing component of the installation process is the same for both, new construction windows use nailing fins—thin strips installed on the window’s exterior edges that hold the window in place—while replacement windows do not.
Replacement windows insert into your existing frame, are installed from the interior, and don’t have nailing fins or flanges. You can upgrade or replace your current window with a replacement window, but it needs to be the same size and shape as the existing one. The wall system stays in place while you replace just the window, not the trim or siding.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More affordable | Unable to change the size and shape of the window |
| Exterior stays intact | Can leak without a flush fit |
| Easier installation | Not an option if studs or frame are damaged |
| Increases energy-efficiency |
Best For:
People on a tighter budget
People looking for a quick construction process
Replacement windows are the right choice in a lot of scenarios, allowing you to upgrade your windows with minimal disruption.
Because retrofitting windows is much more straightforward than installing new construction types, window replacement costs less. The windows may be slightly more expensive, but labor costs are typically lower.
Unlike new construction windows, there’s no need for major alterations to existing walls, trims, or siding when installing replacement windows. Not only is this less disruptive and less costly, but it means there will be no chance of a change in your home's exterior. Not only is this a pro for anyone who has perfectly curated their home’s exterior, but it is also an advantage if you have an older home with period features you don’t want to disrupt.
Even though you won't need to remove the siding, check with your contractor to see if your framing, capping, or moisture barrier needs repair.
On a tight deadline, replacement window installation is quicker than new construction types. Busy local window replacement companies may have the time to book you in sooner for this less time-consuming job than they will for a more extensive new construction window installation. If you’re installing the window yourself, replacement windows are far more straightforward than new construction.
When replacing your windows with more energy-efficient varieties, it makes sense to stick with retrofitting. It’s a cost-effective, minimally disruptive method for making this change when done well.
Retrofit replacement windows aren’t the best solution for every scenario. Below are some disadvantages.
You must stick with the original frame size with replacement windows. So if you want to let more light in or change the look of your room, this won’t be the right choice. For instance, if you want to change from a four-pane living room window to a three-pane one, you must choose new construction windows.
Although replacement windows are easy to install, ensuring a good fit is challenging if the original frame isn’t flush. In these instances, modifications may be necessary to provide an airtight fit, and the labor costs could be higher than average.
It’s essential to hire a reputable local window installer, as replacement windows are more likely to have a poor fit. Air leakage is a possibility, resulting in issues with insulation and speedier deterioration of the surrounding frame.
When studs or frames are rotten or damaged and need replacing, it’s better to opt for new construction windows. It may not even be possible to fit a replacement window securely when there’s significant damage.
New construction windows include new window panes, frames, and sometimes trim. You install them from the exterior and often need to remove the trim and siding beforehand. You may also need to install a new moisture barrier or capping or repair the framing. New construction windows have nailing, new attachment fins, and flanges. The project often includes waterproofing the exterior, which a pro can handle best.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for additions and remodeling | Higher installation costs |
| Can increase glass size or change the shape | More disruptive installation |
| Allows for a better, tighter fit |
Best For:
Historic homes
People who want more design options
New construction windows can add glass surface area and offer a tighter fit. Here’s a rundown of the full benefits.
Are you remodeling an existing space, stripping the walls down to their studs, or adding an extension? Then you’ll almost certainly need to install new construction windows.
These windows attach their metal nail fin frames to the studs in the wall, holding them in place until the surrounding wall construction is complete. In contrast, replacement windows need to fit inside an existing frame.
There’s nothing like a tall window to bring plenty of beautiful light to your space. If you want to install a wider or taller window than you already have, then new construction windows are the way to go. Because you may have to make a larger opening to accommodate the bigger window, the detailed framing will ensure a secure fit.
Speaking of a snug fit, when the exterior around an existing window has begun to rot, rust, or deteriorate, replacing it with a new construction window is the better option. Fitting replacement windows into a problematic frame can lead to a poor seal and reduced longevity.
If fixing the problem requires substantial work relating to siding, drywall, studs, or framing, it likely won’t cost more to use a new construction window, ensuring a secure and airtight fit.
New construction windows aren’t suitable for every situation. Here are a few of their disadvantages.
New construction windows cost around 10% to 15% less than retrofit options, but installation is more complex and time-consuming, and labor costs can be 50% to 100% more. If you’re installing the windows yourself, consider replacement windows unless you’re an experienced DIYer or carpenter.
You often need to remove the exterior and interior trim, expose the frame, and sometimes even cut back the siding for new construction window installation. These all need reinstating after installation, too. It’s a messier, more complex job than replacement window installation and may leave your home in disarray.
New construction windows are harder to install but can offer you more glass or allow you to change the style of your window. Replacement windows are easier to install and cost less, but you’ll need solid framing and studs. Here's a breakdown of critical factors to consider when deciding between these two types of windows.
When fully fitted, both new construction and replacement windows should look fantastic—there should be no discernible difference as to which is which. But new construction windows win whenever you want to increase your glass size or change the window style.
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.
Both new construction and replacement windows should be equally durable when fitted well. However, if replacement windows installation is on an existing frame that isn’t in the best condition, they’ll probably need replacing sooner.
Although new construction windows are typically around 10% to 15% more expensive to buy than replacement types, the cost to install replacement 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.
With replacement windows, your options are limited because you fit a window into the existing space and framing. New construction windows allow you to change your window style and size, giving you various options.
Window maintenance is the same whether you have replacement or new construction windows. If your window frame or studs are in disrepair, choosing new construction windows allows you to repair these pieces before the new window is in. Have a local window contractor assess your framing and studs before updating your windows to ensure they have the proper support.
Both new construction windows and replacement windows last about 15 to 30 years. The longevity of a window depends on how well the window is installed, the quality of the window, cleaning and general upkeep, and how much your home naturally settles over time.
New construction windows add more value because they offer larger glass sizes and are more likely to have updated frames and studs. High-quality replacement windows also add to the value of a home.
Jenna Jonaitis contributed to this piece.
