What to consider when replacing old wood windows?
I am considering replacing the old wood windows in my co-op. What are the things I should be considering when shopping around for prices, etc? The apt is in an historic district so I think I will be limited on what I can do in the front windows. Vinyl or aluminum? Do some companies deal…
I am considering replacing the old wood windows in my co-op. What are the things I should be considering when shopping around for prices, etc? The apt is in an historic district so I think I will be limited on what I can do in the front windows. Vinyl or aluminum? Do some companies deal with the lead paint better than others? Approx what should the price be to replace a few windows? Any other advice or input would be appreciated as I know next to nothing about replacing windows. Thanks in advance.
Heights Woodworking specializes in Custom Made Solid Mahogany Wood Windows
Double Hung / Curve Windows / all types of Glass
I was very satisfied with my job.
Phone # (718) 875-7497
consider marvin infinity windows. find my ealier posts and read. We’re in historic district and got 12 windows. They are fabulous. Look good, work well, etc. Go read.
Oh…you can also install new wooden windows and either paint or stain and seal them. They come pre primed or in nice hardwoods like, mahogony, fir, cedar, cherry etc. Lead paint? You mean your old windows have lead paint? If you get new windows then your lead paint on the windows is gone. Most contractors are fairly neat and will vacuum any dust and debris. If you have lead paint on the mouldings then that will remain, a carpenter or paint stripper would deal will that
Depends on why you want the new windows and how you want to replace them. You can have them tear out the entire window and do a full installation of a new window. OR a replacement window where they just take out the window and leave the original framing (including the weights and chains) and they insert the replacement window. The replacement window route is the cheaper way, but they will often cover up the front woodwork with vinyl or aluminum flashing. They can also install a replacement window and leave the original exterior woodwork exposed and they can scrape and paint it. The risk you run with a replacement window is that the old framing can be rotted or worn and cold air will still come in. If the frame is ok then a little caulk and new paint might work. When you do a complete install (brick to brick) you end up with a slightly larger window and a new seal around the jamb.
Replacement windows are cheaper and window companies make more money on these. It takes them about a day to install all of them. The new window route is more involved and more expensive and most window guys will talk you out of getting them. You can expect to spend from 300 to 2200 per window depending on quality, style, brand and who puts the windows in.
Are you considering restoring them? I have done a few and the finished product is quite good, and historic.