So now that you’ve decided you are moving forward with your
window replacement, it’s time to decide what type of replacement window you will
choose; custom-made or stock. Custom windows are designed and made to fit the
openings in your home, while stock windows are made in one size. Stock windows
are typically readily available at big box home improvement stores and are also
what many replacement window companies offer to the public. While many
homeowners are attracted to stock windows because of their initial low price,
there can be considerable cost involved to make the window fit within the space
in your home.
If your stock window is smaller than the opening in your
home then generally filler is needed to make stock windows fit in your home
properly. This can include using shims, but can also be as extensive as requiring
additional brick or siding on the outside of your home as well as drywall on
the inside to make it fit. Keep in mind, putting a smaller window in a larger
hole also reduces your view of outside.
If you choose the make install a window that is larger than
your current opening, there is a good chance that you will need to make
significant changes to the load-bearing parts of the wall. This is something
that is not recommended without the help of a reputable contractor. So, while initially cheaper, homeowners often
ultimately find that stock windows can become considerably more expensive than
first expected.
While they might initially take longer to receive, a true
replacement window is one that is built to fit an existing opening in your
home. They are designed to create an exact fit and can be installed without
major disruption to the inside and outside of your home.
Custom-made windows are the preferred windows in almost
every situation, because they fit properly
into your existing space, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing
disruptions to your home.
