New Construction vs. Replacement Windows

If you’ve heard the terms “new construction windows” and “replacement windows” and are wondering what the difference is, you’ve come to the right place. Like their names sound, new construction windows are typically used for such projects – new homes and buildings being built – while replacement windows are the ones you would get if you’re trying to replace the windows you’ve had for 30 years. But there is more to it than that!

New Construction Windows

New construction windows are usually installed where there is only the rough opening (framed opening in the wall where the window will be installed). When it comes to completely new windows, everything is replaced – not only the actual window but also the framing and interior and exterior sill.

New construction windows also usually have a nail fin, which rests against the outside of the frame’s stud. Nails or screws are pushed through the holes in the fin and other exterior materials are applied to the frame of the window.

The main benefits of new construction windows are:

More customized finish
Many custom finish options and upgrades

Replacement Windows

The main difference between new construction and replacement windows lies in the installation process. The frame and sill aren’t replaced during replacement window installation – replacement windows, also sometimes referred to as retrofit windows, are measured to fit an existing opening and will only replace the actual window.

The main benefits of replacement windows are:

Lower cost
Quicker installation

New Construction vs. Replacement Windows

Other than that, new construction and replacement windows are essentially the same.Both can be used for residential and commercial projects, including:

Homes
Pool houses
Government buildings
Churches
Schools
And more

Quality Window & Door offers an extensive non-proprietary supply of new construction and replacement windows – in a range of styles, including double-hung, casement, awning and more – from industry leading manufacturers such as:

Weather Shield
Simonton
Mira
Ply Gem
Parrett
Panda
And more

Whatever your new construction or replacement window needs are in Maryland, Washington, DC or Virginia, Quality Window & Door has you covered. Call 1-800-370-8751 or contact our experts today!

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Excellent rating
Based on 111 reviews

I have been working with this company for many years, trusting that if problems were to arise with a product, Quality Window would find a happy outcome for the customer. This has been the case!! Mike Hudson is a thorough and profesional sales representative, always willing to patiently take a call and mitigate doubts and concerns. John Poulos offers amazing customer service. Always prompt and communicative. The liaison between company and client could not be in better hands!! Thank you.

scarlet narciso

Great company that backs their product. We built a new house and Quality Window & Doors was the subcontractor for our Weathershield windows and doors. Wayne and Noe came out to service a broken handle on our 16' Weathershield sliding door. We were technically beyond the warranty period but they repaired the handle for free. They also took the time to go around and adjust our other exterior doors to make sure they were well aligned now that the house had settled a bit. Wayne was a real expert and got all the doors adjusted and working perfectly!

Tucker Jones

Excellent products and service. The install went well too! Would definitely order from them again.

John Fu

Great service. I highly recommend Quality Window and Door for information, purchasing and service. I have used this firm for a number of years both as an architect and as a client. I've always been very satisfied with their products and service.

McCain McMurray

We are thrilled with our new windows and door! Excellent job from estimate to completion! The install team was fantastic and I loved that the lead installer was also present during the initial measurement phase. It took a few months for the windows to arrive so it was really nice to see a familiar face for the install and he knew exactly what to do! Highly recommend!!

Brenda

Quality Door and Window did a fantastic job at a reasonable price.in installing 23 replacement windows, including the combination of two windows into one larger picture window. Highly recommended.

Daniel Leach

QWD is a first rate company. The staff from product selection, estimate, showroom, measurement and installation were professional and highly competent. The installation crew paid attention to detail and went through great lengths to ensure our satisfaction. I love the new windows and I recommend them without reservation.

Sal Golub

Have relied on QW&D for all my window and door needs for over 25 years. I know I can count on their expertise and responsiveness.

skip shipman

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