If you’re searching online for tips on replacing windows in a house, you’re probably in one of a few different situations. Maybe your windows have a draft. Maybe you notice the glass is fogging up. Maybe you’ve discovered some rot. Or maybe your wood window is still looking beautiful but you’re struggling to open or close it. Whatever the case may be, you may need to replace your window, part of your window, or the entire frame. What are your options, and are there any window replacement alternatives you can take advantage of? Keep reading to find out.

What Are the Different Materials Windows Are Made From?

When it comes to windows, they come in all shapes and sizes. You can get windows that are single-hung, double-hung, arched, casement, bow… you get the idea. But one thing all the varieties of windows have in common is that they’re almost all made out of one of the five types of materials: wood, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass, and composite.

Wood

Wood is the most traditional material when it comes to windows. Wood is naturally beautiful, highly customizable, and it provides a good amount of insulation. With the right care and upkeep, wood windows can last for 30 years or more. And even then, you may only need to replace parts of your window—not the entire thing.

Wood windows do often have a higher initial cost, which can deter some folks from replacing their existing wood windows with more wood. But that’s exactly where our team at Fenster Components comes in. Our company custom-builds wood window replacement parts so you can extend the life of your windows without having to change out the entire frame. But more on us later… let’s get back to the other types of materials there are.

Aluminum

Aluminum windows are well-known for being sturdy and strong, and they’re a fairly common choice for modern homes and commercial buildings alike. Aluminum windows are lightweight and easy to install, and they can be a bit less expensive than wooden windows—though pricier than vinyl.

It’s important to keep in mind that aluminum is a thermal conductor, meaning it doesn’t hold heat in very well. They’re probably not your best bet if you’re looking for energy efficiency, especially in colder climates. Aluminum windows have a lifespan of around 20-25 years.

Vinyl

Vinyl windows are made of either pure vinyl or recycled vinyl. Vinyl replacement windows are one of the most affordable options out there if you need to replace your whole window. They come in all sorts of colors, sizes, and styles to match your home’s aesthetic. Their average lifespan is about 15-20 years.

On the flip side, vinyl isn’t super desirable among all homeowners. Darker colors can fade in sunlight and it’s not very environmentally friendly. These are things to keep in mind if you’re looking to put your home on the market in the next few years.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass windows became popular in the early 2000s, which makes them one of the newcomers in the window world. They’re somewhat similar to vinyl widows in that they require limited maintenance and the material holds up fairly well against the elements. Fiberglass is sturdier than vinyl, so it might work better for large windows.

Because fiberglass windows are so new, they may not have as many customization options as other products. Price-wise, they’re roughly on par with wood and can last for 20-45 years if properly maintained.

Composite

Finally, composite windows are, as the name suggests, made up of a composite of materials—typically wood fibers, plastic polymers, or metals. Like fiberglass, they’re fairly new to the market so you may find fewer customization options. Composite windows can offer the best aspects of different kinds of materials.

What Are the Options for Home Window Replacement?

In general, when looking at how to replace old windows, there are a few different ways to go about it, depending on the type of window you have and your reason for replacing them. We’ll go into more detail in the next section on why you might be replacing your windows, but first let’s look at your options for full frame window replacements, replacement window inserts, and replacing parts on a wooden window.

Full Frame Window Replacements

With full frame window replacements, the entire window and frame are removed and replaced. This method is most commonly used with new constructions, remodels, or when the existing frame is damaged or rotting. When doing a full frame window replacement, the siding of a home must be cut back to replace the frame—which can be especially difficult when working on brick or stucco homes. Full frame replacement is labor intensive and tends to be pricier than other options.

Replacement Window Inserts

With window inserts, you’re replacing a window inside an existing, undamaged frame. This is most common with vinyl windows, though it is possible with other types of windows, too. When considering a window insert, keep in mind that you need to ensure that the frame is structurally sound. We’ve heard about discount companies ignoring or covering rotten frames when doing a replacement insert—and that can get you into some trouble down the line. As you might have guessed, replacement inserts are less labor intensive and cheaper than full frame replacements.

Replacing Parts on a Wood Window

If you’ve got wood windows, there’s a third option you might not be aware of, and that’s replacing particular parts of your window. A lot of times replacing the entire window just isn’t necessary, and at Fenster, we’ve come up with a solution. We build and sell after-market window sash replacement packs. A window sash is essentially the operable part of your window (the parts that opens and closes), and our packs contain replacement parts for jambliners, balances, and sashes.

If your wood window and frame are in great shape but they’re not working properly, purchasing a sash replacement pack is going to be cheaper and easier to install. Our after-market products are custom-designed to replicate your specific window make and model (even those that are legacy brands) so they’ll fit perfectly with your other windows.

Is it Worth it To Replace Home Windows?

So you know what your options are for replacing a window, but is it really worth it? It certainly can be, but the truth is that you can’t really determine whether or not it’s worth it to replace (or repair) your windows, their components, or the entire frame without considering your unique situation. In this next section, we’re exploring the ins and outs of whether or not to replace or repair your windows, how it works, and where to buy replacement windows that’ll suit your needs.

How to Decide What Replacement Option to Choose

So you know you need to do something about your windows. But which option should you choose? Here is a brief list of questions to consider when making your decision.

• Are your windows damaged? And if so, where is the damage? Damaged frames often need a total replacement, but sash damage might be easily repaired with an insert or with Fenster’s wood window component replacements.
• What are your windows made out of? Do you want to stick with the same material or upgrade to something new?
• Are you replacing one window or all of your windows? If you’re replacing just a single window, ensuring that you can match it to your existing windows may be high on your list. And generally, unless the sky’s the limit on your budget and you’re doing a full remodel, you don’t need to replace all your windows.
• Are you concerned with improving energy efficiency? If so, you may be interested in replacing drafty windows with a more energy efficient model, but keep in mind, all of our replacement sashes use the latest glass technology to stay in step with the major brands.
• How might your window replacement improve curb appeal or home value? Window replacements have been known to increase the resale value of a home, especially if they’re in need of repair. However, it will take several years to recoup the cost of window replacements through energy savings, and you won’t simply be able to add the cost of your new windows to the selling price of your home in the short term. 

Can I Replace Windows Myself?

It’s certainly possible to replace windows yourself—especially if you’re using a window insert replacement or one of Fenster’s sash replacement kits. If you’re an avid DIY-er who is handy with tools and knows how to follow technical instructions, you’ll probably be a-ok. 

On the other hand, a full frame replacement is a lot of work—and if you do it incorrectly you could damage your home’s siding. Still, someone who is experienced with home repair and complex DIY projects may be able to accomplish this type of project as well. 

How long does it take to replace a window DIY style? You’re looking at spending a good half an hour to a full day, depending upon the job and your existing skill set. Inserts and Fenster components may only take you 30 minutes to an hour, but a full frame replacement might take you several hours.

Why look into replacing them on your own? Cost is generally the deciding factor. The labor costs to install a new window will typically be between $150 to $800. That can certainly add up if you’re looking at more than one window.

Can I Hire Local Window Companies to Install My Windows?

Absolutely! It certainly does cost money to hire installers—as we discussed above—but if you’re not handy or you want to make sure it’s done right, consider hiring a local window installation company to do the job. The important thing to note here is that you want to make sure you find a reputable company to do the job. When considering hiring an installer, keep these things in mind:

• What is the estimated fee?
• How long will it take?
• How long have they been in business?
• Do they have experience with your type of window?
• What are the warranty requirements for your windows, if there are any?
• Does the installer handle interior and/or exterior trim? 
• How will they protect your home during installation?

When it comes to installation, one of the most common questions we hear is “Do window installers need to come inside?” The truth is, your window installers will need to be in your home. While a lot of the work is done from the outside on a full frame replacement, sashes and components are installed from the inside. They should place a drop cloth or other protective covering inside your home to protect it from any debris and you’ll want to provide an unobstructed path to each window being serviced.  

Fenster: Affordable Window Replacement for Wood Windows

If you’ve been wondering how to replace old wood windows in your home, especially if those windows are still structurally sound but need new sashes, look no further than Fenster. Fenster is an easy-access online retailer of window replacement kits and components. Based in Indiana, our American-made products are custom-made to fit your specifications. 

With our clear step-by-step process, it couldn’t be easier to find the perfect fit. And our video tutorials and vetted independent contractors mean installation is easy—whether you’re a DIYer or not. When you need affordable solutions to extend the life of your beautiful wood widows, check out our product offerings or get in touch with our sales team today.