I recently had a new construction window installed in my bedroom, but the contractor didn't put in any header support or weatherproofing, which led to it leaking during rain and starting to sag. I've hired a licensed contractor to fix it by gutting the whole window, adding a header, and ensuring proper weatherproofing. He suggested using a retrofit window to match my existing windows, but I have some concerns. Retrofit windows seem less weatherproof since they rely mainly on sealant and caulk, and the old frame they depend on isn't really there. He claims he can modify the frame for the retrofit window, but how reliable is this option? Should I worry about the longevity of the retrofit window, or should I just go with the new construction window instead?
2 Answers
New construction windows generally have a flange that attaches directly to the sheathing, which offers better support and sealing compared to retrofit windows, which mostly rely on caulk. It sounds like you really need to redo the whole setup, including framing, to avoid future issues. If your contractor is good, it’d be better to go for a new construction window this time around.
I get why you might prefer a retrofit for matching aesthetics, but it’s worth considering. Retrofit windows are common for replacements and can work well if installed correctly. If your contractor is trying to save you time because he has access to a quick option, maybe that’s why he mentioned retrofit? Knowing what you prioritize—looks vs. functionality—is key.
Absolutely! I want to ensure the window matches the look of my other ones without compromising on quality. If he can genuinely do a reliable retrofit, I’m open to it, but I don’t want another leaking issue.
Just to clarify, even if there are studs for the flange to mount to, if the framing is not up to par, both options could run into problems. It's really about getting the underlying structure right.