Retrofit Windows Reviews

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Retrofit Windows Reviews

With retrofit installation, the installer cuts out the old window from the opening. Then, they clean and prep the opening. Next, the installer(s) inserts the new window into the opening. They then secure the new window to the frame using predrilled holes in the window mainframe. Lastly, they caulk and seal the inside and outside to insure the opening is both airtight and watertight. Insert or retrofit window installation (synonymous terms) is the simpler (and less expensive) alternative to full frame installation (often called new construction) where all materials are removed right down to the wood frame. Scroll down to read all of our retrofit windows reviews.

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dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co

Okna 800 Series

I really like the Okna 800 windows, seem to have really good reviews. I'm concerned with glass loss. Currently, we have Anderson Narroline double hung windows. Also, if I'm measuring correctly, looks like current windows have about a 1 3/4" jamb and sash (is this considered the "frame"?), and the Okna is more like 2 3/4", so if do full jamb replacement I'd lose about 2" total from width. Lastly, if do pocket insert, will be even more.

1) How do I determine the difference for sure, ie should the window company who gave me quote be able to tell me fairly accurately? 2) Is this not really a big deal and I'm worrying over nothing? A good number of our windows are about 36" wide and 5' tall. 3) Which method of installation is used the most?

4) is the Okna 800 windows "frame", wider than most, or pretty typical? 5) my other concern with it is, it seems difficult to clean the top sash. You have to hold the bottom sash just below 90 degrees while then reaching to release and tilt in the top sash just over 90 degrees. I had some difficulty doing this in the showroom with a small window, I can't imagine doing it on my actual windows. They mention supporting the lower sash with something, but with what?! Thanks for your page on retrofit windows reviews - it's quite a wealth of information!

Terry - Homeowner - from 2024

[Site Editor's Answer]

Terry - 1) Absolutely the company should tell you exactly how much glass loss you will have. Vinyl windows are always going to use a thicker frame - one of the downsides for sure, but the energy efficiency you gain is going to be significant. Pros and cons for sure. 2) For larger windows, I don't think it will be a huge issue. For smaller windows, it's a bit tenuous and a concern for me.

3) Totally depends on the condition of your frames, but insert or retrofit is more common for the simple reason that's it's much less expensive to do. Full frame can run $500 a window on the labor alone to install and do the finish work. 4) I think the 800 frame is pretty darn typical in terms of its width (the Sunrise Restorations, now called the MI V5550 series, is an excellent window that uses quite a narrow frame. Might be worth another bid to see what you think.)

5) Yes, always a bit of a pain on straight double hungs (as opposed to the tilt turn option). Typically, you might consider an upgrade to a reinforced sash rail, but the Okna 800 is such a good window that I don't think it's required.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2024

Retrofit Windows Reviews

Currently, we have old 1992 wood windows with broken seals that we'd like to replace with vinyl. We live in Northern Colorado and have hot summers and cold winters at high elevation. As we are on a budget, we are looking for budget but decent vinyl windows. We've had several contactors out for bids and some rave about retrofit windows, and some say they are terrible and let in cold air on the sides. What do you all know about the retrofit option?

Nathan - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Nathan, the retrofit option is certainly a viable approach, especially if the current windows are new construction. A new construction window uses a nailing flange around the head and sides. The installer has to take this off, which involves talking off the surrounding siding, stucco, etc. This is expensive in terms of patching and repair work. The biggest question is whether the existing window frames are in good enough shape for retrofit. Aslo, that the openings are square and plumb. It sounds like several contractors are saying they are.

Depending on the existing windows, you will often lose some viewing area with retrofit windows so make sure to ask about that. Retrofit windows are viable, but they need to be done by installers who are used to doing them. There are a lot of places to screw up during the process. Certainly retrofit is the cheaper alternative to a full replacement.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

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