Full Replacement vs. Inserts
We are thinking of replacing the windows in our brownstone and were wondering what other people chose to do. The question is whether to do a full replacement including the frames or to use the “insertsâ€. We’ve been hearing some conflicting opinions, and I was curious as to what other brownstone owners opted for. Our…
We are thinking of replacing the windows in our brownstone and were wondering what other people chose to do. The question is whether to do a full replacement including the frames or to use the “insertsâ€. We’ve been hearing some conflicting opinions, and I was curious as to what other brownstone owners opted for. Our real goal is for better insulation in the bay front, and it seems that full replacement is probably better but is it worth about double the price? How much extra insulation is actually put in when the original frames are replaced? On the other hand, if you are just putting in the inserts while keeping the original frames are you paying a fortune for the insert but leaving drafty old frames? We have pretty much decided on either Marvin or Andersen. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
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afdn kdntvhlzc rqowvis exnugy uwtkim nhjvgp yxsunmbd
afdn kdntvhlzc rqowvis exnugy uwtkim nhjvgp yxsunmbd
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For insulation, a full replacement would be best, you can insulate all 4 sides. With “inserts, replacements, tilt-pacs, etc.” you can only partially insulate the sides.
Sure, you can pull off the casings and do it or have an insulation company blow or inject insulation but this is an added expense.
Two things you are not mentioning are the condition of your existing frames and whether or not your walls are insulated.
Bill, thanks for the info. What are your thoughts on my original question regarding the inserts vs. the full new window including replacing the frame?
One thing should be noted. The “Inserts” and the “Infinity” are two different windows. Both share the same method of installation (both are traditional replacement windows, leaving the existing frame intact), the difference being the materials they are constructed of.
The Infinity is as noted above a “pultruded fiberglass”; the insert is a wood window with the choice of an aluminum clad or a wood exterior.
Your location may have you leaning towards one over the other. The infinity is a great product, but wood is still wood.
The “Tilt-Pac” is Marvin’s first “replacement” window, and is a great option, especially for landmark applications. The major concern with Tilt-Pac’s is the condition of the existing frame. If it is out of square, bowed, cross legged or you have major deterioration of the frame, you may not get the greatest performance.
I use it primarily for the garden level, where wrought iron bars are in place and set into the masonry opening.
The issue of insulation is the same with all the above options. The windows all perform great. The existing frames cannot be insulated properly. you can only insulate +/- 50% of the weight box and none of the top or bottom (under the sill) without dismantling the frame, which defeats the purpose of a replacement window.
also, any thoughts about “Replacement Windows” vs. the Marvin Tilt-Pac Sash replacements.
Thanks jn, I definitely want to hear what happens with your windows, how you feel about Bay Ridge Windows installation etc. With the windows you purchased are they full replacement (including replacing the original frames) or are they the replacement inserts (leaving the original frame)?