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Replacement Windows and Installation: Question & Opinion

8 years ago

I am getting replacement window quotes. Today what opened my eyes is the description of the two methods of installation that this installer could perform; he said it would be my choice. He said my existing vinyl windows were the same depth as the Vytex Georgetown. He could install other windows that are thicker in depth; these would sit partially inside of the existing inside trim on the sides and partially inside of the sills because of the increased depth. The installation would have a nailing fin and would approximately overhang or jut out the same distance on the outside of the house exterior wall. These would have the outside vinyl siding cut back and a vinyl trim coil, frame the window on the outside. He will be sending me his estimates for different windows.


Is that what is meant when it is said that you lose glass area on a replacement window install?


Do the installation methods sound accurate? He said that is how the other installers would have to install.


What are your opinions of the two methods?


For reference, I see from the Vytex web site:

Jamb Depth of Frame: Potomac-hp - 3 1/4″; Georgetown - 2 3/4″

Insulating Glass Unit (IGU) Thickness: Potomac-hp - 1″; Georgetown - 3/4″

Comments (5)

  • PRO
    8 years ago

    Potomac is a much better window by far. Where are you located?

  • 8 years ago

    Another observation, if the wider windows are installed, the frame
    would push the blinds further into the inside of the rooms. Some of the blind parts
    would jut beyond the inside edge of the trim framing. In the worst case there
    might not be enough room on the wood trim to attach the mounting bracket at the
    top. I have cellular blinds, if the inside edge of the cell pleat is inside of
    the wood trim it would decrease the insulating benefit of the blind, beyond
    just not looking correct. It would all
    depend upon how far the blind is moved into the room.

    Please read next post to continue my message.

    It says my message is too long to post.

  • 8 years ago

    This is the continuation of the prior post:

    Is that a correct observation?

    Does anyone know how far or how much further it would extend into
    the room?

    Is it possible that the wider in depth window could extend further
    outside. Jut further out from the
    exterior wall. Thereby fitting in the
    hole left by the old window frame?

    Has anyone encountered this issue?

    How did you resolve the issue?

    I understand the Vytex Georgetown is not as good a window design
    wise. I am just trying to understand all the issues, including this installation
    and fit issue.

  • PRO
    8 years ago

    Hey There: We cant help you with getting the windows because we only do new construction, but we can help you with advise. When you get new windows and the old frame stays inside (this is a very common installation if you have old metal windows and they don't want to take the frame out so they don't break the stucco). The new window will be smaller for sure and the new glass will cut down on light too. However, this is by far the least expensive way to install replacement windows.

    If you take the whole old window out, the new window can be bigger and therefore more light. Don't worry about the window treatment - if this was installed in the window casing/ opening they will still fit.

    Best way for you to make a decision...ask them for 2 or 3 jobs you can visit and see yourself.

    Good Luck with your project.


  • PRO
    8 years ago
    last modified: 8 years ago

    The method that is being described, in my understanding, would make the width and height of the new window similar to the old. You would not downsize a window(not more than a negligible amount anyway) and then still use a nail fin... at least not under most circumstances. The depth issue is not what it is normally referred to by "losing glass area". That issue in your case would present itself if the width and height were each reduce by roughly 1 - 1 1/2" or so to fit inside of the jamb extension or drywall return, whichever you have. The depth issue will either shrink your interior "sill", and possible affect the blinds, OR project out farther on the exterior, the aesthetics of which can often be minimized in the way that the exterior trim is completed.

    Overall, there are several different ways to "skin this cat", what you need is someone to demonstrate the options and ramifications of each in person. Its not rocket science, but it can be difficult to visualize without that. Where are you located? Perhaps an installer can be recommended among the contributors to the community here.