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One of the crowning glories of a new construction that adds to its appeal is the windows. The type and style of windows you install in a new construction can add to its overall value. New construction window installation is usually done once the building’s frame has been completed.
What is Window Installation in New Construction?
As the name suggests, new construction windows are used when a new home or house addition is being constructed. These windows are installed quite early during the building process, allowing the window frame to be securely nailed right into the house framing using a nail fin frame, along with flashing to help seal out water and air. Installing new construction windows in an older, existing home is also known as full-frame replacement.
When selecting windows, it’s important to talk with your window contractor about what you want the windows to achieve for the overall build.
Below are some factors to consider when deciding on the most suitable windows for new construction.
Best Materials for Window Installation in New Construction
Here are the most common window materials that are ideal for new construction projects:
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows are the most popular windows for new home construction. They are affordable, energy-efficient, and low maintenance. However, because vinyl is usually white, interior and exterior styling can be limited. Painting vinyl can open up the options for custom colors.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass windows are strong, durable, and beautiful. They have virtually zero expansion and contraction, which can lead to air infiltration. Although they cost more than vinyl windows, the benefits could be worth the investment.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows are low cost and maintenance, with excellent strength for large window openings. Aluminum windows could be the least efficient alternative without the proper internal components.
Aluminum-clad windows give the home the classic look of wood inside while providing the durability, toughness, and protection of metal on the outside. This choice tends to cost more than regular aluminum window options.
Best Window Styles for New Home Construction
Here are the possible uses for a few of the most common window styles seen in new buildings:
Single-hung and Double-Hung Windows
Single—and double-hung windows are among the most frequently chosen window types for home construction projects. They are suitable for any room in a home.
In single-hung windows, only the bottom panel moves; the upper panel/sash does not. Because the upper sash is stationary, single-hung windows are more energy efficient than double-hung windows.
Single-hung windows are less expensive to purchase and easier to install (which means less expensive) than double-hung windows. You can personalize both window styles with built-in grills that enhance your exterior design look, and their curb appeal is almost the same!
Meanwhile, double-hung windows are the go-to for new construction! Just like single-hung windows, the sashes slide vertically up and down within the frame. The bonus of a double-hung window is that you can tilt and slide open the bottom and top sashes.
Double-hung windows provide improved air circulation compared to single-hung windows (since you can open both the top and bottom sections), can be personalized with internal grilles, come in more varied styles than single-hung windows, and are convenient to clean because both sashes tilt inward, making it easy to clean them from inside your house.
Sliding Windows
Slider windows move smoothly along a rail and feature at least one window that moves sideways across the other window. This is a cost-effective choice because there are very few moving mechanical components. When open, slider windows offer clear views and ample ventilation.
Sliding windows provide a wider and more open view than single-hung and double-hung windows, making them perfect for living rooms and dining areas.
Casement Windows
Casement windows open using a crank and swing outward; they can be attached on either the left or right side.
Casement windows offer excellent ventilation and let plenty of natural light stream into your room. They are generally very simple to operate and have a strong seal when shut, making them a highly energy-efficient choice.
Casement windows are attached with hinges, enabling them to swing open outward like doors. Their simple operation makes them perfect for use behind kitchen counters and sofas in living rooms.
Awning windows are hinged at their top edge and swing outward. They are commonly placed high on the walls to allow ventilation while maintaining privacy in bathrooms and walk-in closets.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are big, fixed windows that enhance your view of the outdoors and allow more natural light to flood into your home.
Picture windows do not open, so there are fewer chances of air leaks, and, as a result, they are better at saving energy.
They come in almost any size and shape, allowing you to add natural light and exterior views to areas that don’t necessarily need ventilation, such as stairwells and high-on vaulted ceilings.
Bay Windows
Bay and bow windows enhance dimension by extending outward from the home’s foundation. This contributes to a beautiful aesthetic, enhanced curb appeal, and additional square footage within the house’s interior.
Garden Windows
Garden windows resemble miniature box bay windows. They are usually set up behind the kitchen sink. The deep sill and extra glass shelf make them an excellent spot to cultivate herbs and tiny houseplants.
Make sure you purchase new construction windows no matter what style and material you choose. These are put in place differently than replacement windows, and they come with a nail fin allowing the frame to be connected directly to the casing.
Hire A Professional & Experienced Contractor
Many people love to have that feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment that comes along with successful DIY jobs. Where windows are concerned, however, it takes a certain level of skill and know-how to get the job done right.
For one thing, you will likely not have all the tools required to install new construction windows. Another possibility is that if you do end up making a mistake with the installation, you will have to get the services of a professional contractor. This will end up costing you more in the long run.
Professionals also can properly assess and rectify any issues that may present a problem with the installation before they even begin. This is something the untrained eye will not be able to detect.
If you’re looking for professional window contractors to breathe life to the windows of your dreams, please reach out to us today!