It can be challenging to spot the difference between a new construction and a replacement window, especially since they function quite similarly.
However, it is important for homeowners to distinguish between the two so they can make an informed decision before purchasing a window for their home.
Read more to learn about these two options.
Summary Table
| New Construction Window | Replacement Window |
| Designed with a nail fin frame | Not designed with a nail fin frame |
| Ideal for new homes or for newly-built home add-ons | Ideal for replacing existing windows in a home |
| Not cost efficient when replacing old windows | Cost efficient when replacing old windows |
| Involves a more invasive installation process | Involves a less invasive installation process |
Descriptions
A new construction window, also called full-frame replacement window, is a type of window designed for a new home or a newly-constructed home extension.
Meanwhile, a replacement window, also known as a retrofit window or insert replacement window, is built to replace existing home windows.
New Construction vs Replacement Windows
While they both play a critical role in ensuring proper ventilation within a home, there are major differences between new construction and replacement windows – not just in terms of design and application, but in the whole installation process as well.
Design
Since a new construction window is designed for newly-constructed homes, it is built with a nail fin frame, which enables easy and fast window installation into the exterior framing of the house. A replacement window, by contrast, does not have a nail fin frame since it was designed to fit into an existing window frame.
Application
As the names imply, a new construction window is intended for new homes or for newly-built home add-ons, while a replacement window is designed to replace existing windows in a home.
However, there is always an exemption to the rule.
If, for instance, the window frames are already damaged, installing a new construction window is a better option since the window frames should also be replaced to ensure structural integrity.
Cost
The up-front cost of buying new construction and replacement windows greatly depend on the window’s size, style, and material. But when replacing old windows in an existing home, it is wiser to use a replacement window since it is cheaper and easier to install.
Plus, using a new construction window for an existing home can greatly impact installation costs since the exterior siding must be removed for the installation process.
Installation
Between these two options, installing replacement windows is less invasive since they do not require any structural changes prior to installation. The window is custom-made and measured to fit the existing frame and it is installed from inside the house.
New construction windows, on the other hand, need to be installed to complete the exterior of the home. They are directly nailed into the wall’s framing via the nail fin frame, and they involve a more extensive installation process, especially when used for replacing old windows with damaged frames.
