|
|
Considering Replacement
Windows or New Construction Windows
During new construction of a
home, the windows are nailed into the wood studs, which make up the
house frame.
This is accomplished because new construction windows have a fin around
all four sides of the window frame, which rests against the outside of
the stud. The nails are driven through the nailing fin into the studs.
The next step is attaching flashing paper prevent water leaks, followed
by exterior material such as stucco, brick, siding, etc.
However, you are not building a new home, your renovating your existing
home and want to replace your windows. To install your replacement
windows in the same way your original windows were installed, then you
will have to remove the exterior material surrounding each window in
order to remove the nails holding the window in place. This will involve
a considerable amount of labor and you may encounter some problems. One
such problem is if you have stucco, when this has been cut away,
you may have difficulty in matching the color of your stucco. This is
why manufactures designed replacement windows, making replacing old
windows with new energy efficient windows, simple.
If you're renovation also includes replacing the exterior material on
your home, then you might consider using new construction window, and if
a contractor is installing your exterior you may wish to let the
contractor install your windows as well.
|
