Replacement Windows

13 years ago

We have standard builder's double hung wooden windows in our home. After only a few years with very good upkeep they have rotted and need to be replaced. Can a vinyl window ever look as good as a wooden window. If so, any brand suggestions. And... Instead of double hung would it be possible to use casement windows. Do they come in the same sizes? Thanks for any help. I know nothing about windows.

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PRO

Dytecture

13 years ago

Most vinyl windows could be customized to retrofit wooden windows, if not then the window opening could be made smaller. There is no replacement for the character of natural wood, but the benefit of low maintenance vinyl windows outweigh wooden windows for most home owners.

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Comments (6)

curryj
Original Author
13 years ago
Any favorite brand of windows?
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Kathleen Hilmer
13 years ago
You most likely could switch out to casement windows. Remember the screen is on the inside (Any pets or small kids that may mess with it?) and when it swings outward it can't be in a walking path area. Perhaps slider windows are an option? If the wood is rotting a few manufacturers have a fiberglass product. Marvin is one. Fairly $$$ though. I am currently searching for replacement windows so also facing the same decisions! Other discussion boards have said Okna, Soft Lite and Sunrise are good vinyl replacement window options. No personal validation of that though...
curryj thanked Kathleen Hilmer
curryj
Original Author
13 years ago
The screens inside would not be a problem for me. I think the real wood windows are so pretty but they just dont last unless there is a type better than what we had. We just cant afford to replace them every few years. Fiberglass might be a great idea. I just dont like vinyl but sure dont want to go through this again. Thanks for your help.
bschr
13 years ago
I have had Pella wooden window in my home for about 32 years. They are still going strong. I like having the screens on the inside because they are a synch to take off and store during the late fall and winter.
curryj thanked bschr
PRO
Campbell Window and Door
13 years ago
No reason to shy away from wood if you like them and it the period of the home. IT IS ESSENTIAL to have them installed to AAMA master installation standards. Depending on Climate zone, vinyl can be a problem after a time. Even though 'lifetime" warranties are offered, they are written in favor of the manufacturer and Service is never fun. It is time YOU will spend.
If you are used to Wood, chances are the adjustment to vinyl will be hard. Wood windows are like furniture in a room. Guaranteed, if wood is installed properly (like bschr most likely)......YOU WILL LOVE THEM.
Ask install questions..materials, procedures, meet the installers....tell them your concerns. Marvin is the best window on the market by many in the field. Jeld-Wen has PROPRIETARY aura last wood. Worth a look.
Go casement. Better viewing, operability and Marvin (JW too) have retractable screens that don't need to be removed in winter. Plus casement meets egress in bedrooms which is a major concern with building these days. AND NO!!!! in MYHO a vinyl window can never replace the feel looks and integrity of wood or wood clad.
I think of my wood windows as an expensive leather couch. Maintain them, condition them and they will last forever. Inside at least, the CLAD takes care of the outside. Happy Window shopping!!! Oh, Marvin and Jeld-Wen stain or prime from factory....which saves time and painting or staining issue. your windows need to be taken apart to do either and that can mean lost parts, broken parts, more TIME (=$). Well worth looking into.