Windows Installation and Replacement
You’re probably reading this because you’re considering a home improvement project and, like most people, you’re worried about making the wrong decision. A new window installation and replacement might seem like a minor detail in your renovation, but it’s one of the most important. Get it wrong and you’ll be dealing with drafts, moisture problems, […]
Article Summary
- You’re probably reading this because you’re considering a home improvement project and, like most people, you’re worried about making the wrong decision.
- A new window installation and replacement might seem like a minor detail in your renovation, but it’s one of the most important.
- Get it wrong and you’ll be dealing with drafts, moisture problems, […]
PRO TIP Start with the city winner if they hang the material you want. Get wrap, flashing, and trim on the written estimate.
PRO TIP Ask who is on the job the week they start.
You’re probably reading this because you’re considering a home improvement project and, like most people, you’re worried about making the wrong decision.
A new window installation and replacement might seem like a minor detail in your renovation, but it’s one of the most important. Get it wrong and you’ll be dealing with drafts, moisture problems, and high energy bills for years to come.
In this article, we help you choose the right windows for your home and install them quickly and efficiently so that you can enjoy your new windows as soon as possible. So let’s start by explaining the difference between window installation and window replacement.
Difference Between Windows Installation and Window Replacement
The difference between window installation and replacement is pretty simple. Installation is putting a new window into an existing wall, while replacement involves removing the old window and replacing it with a new one.
The procedure in doing window replacement and installation are closely related to each other. Installation requires some carpentry work that involves removing the old frame, while replacement in some cases doesn’t need any carpentry jobs because the old frame will be replaced with a new one.
How to Choose the Right Windows for Your Home
There are a few factors you’ll want to consider when shopping for new windows.
- Measure the width, height, and depth of each window you want to be replaced so you can purchase proper replacements.
- Next, think about your taste and style preferences. The color, design, finish, and other features will affect the overall appearance of your home.
- Then, determine the amount of light each window lets in. Windows with more glazing (glass) allow natural light to come through and help brighten up your home’s interior space.
- Finally, think about the availability of replacement windows within your budget and time frame for installation.
Types of Windows Available on the Market
There are so many different types of windows on the market today that it can be difficult to pick just one. Here are some window types to consider, along with their pros and cons.
Single-hung window
Pros: The most versatile of all window types, single-hung windows are great for both interior and exterior use. They work well sliding or hinged to the side, allowing you to maximize how much natural light enters your home.
Cons: Single-hung windows are typically not the best option for homes with older, more fragile window frames.
Double-hung windows
Pros: Double hung windows allow you to take full advantage of your view without worrying about obstructions. Both the lower and upper sashes move up and down for easy access.
Cons: These aren’t as versatile as other window types, so you’ll typically only see them on exterior walls.
Bay windows
Pros: Bay windows are great for adding both architectural beauty and function to your home. They let in more light than most window types while also offering extra space. These windows are ideal if you love gardening or just prefer a more open feel to your living space.
Cons: Since they are more distinctive than other window types it can be difficult to find replacements for bay windows. Plus, bay windows are not good for locations that get too hot since they usually don’t have any insulation or shade cover from the sun.
Picture windows
Pros: These large windows let in lots of natural light. If you enjoy spending time outside, picture windows let you keep an eye on your children or pets from inside your house.
Cons: Since they open and close like a door (hinged on one side), it’s difficult to position them for optimal natural light. Additionally, large picture windows can be expensive and harder to install than other types of windows.
Casement windows
Pros: With its crank mechanism casement windows offer great ventilation without compromising on durability. They’re commonly used in homes that get lots of humidity or cold air due to their ability to open and close easily from the outside by simply rotating them on a hinge.
Cons: Larger casement windows can get expensive since they often require custom installation. Additionally, if you don’t have a wall space convenient enough to accommodate the size of your new casement windows, it could create an awkward appearance when closed.
Basic Window Replacement Process
The process for replacing your windows is straightforward and doesn’t require a lot of tools or many steps.
- Take out the old windows and dispose of them properly. Before starting your project, you should have a plan for disposing of any old materials.
- Remove any dirt or debris from around the window frame to make sure you can easily install your new window replacement.
- Next, fill in any remaining gaps with insulation materials like plastic or fiberglass, which are great for sealing up the cracks and preventing heat leakage.
- After this, you’ll want to install you rwindow frames and attach them to the brick or wood surrounding your home.
- Finally, caulk around the exterior of the windows once they’ve been installed to make the home look attractive and improve its energy efficiency.
Tips for Maintaining Your New Windows
Now that you have your new windows installed, there are a few things you can do to help your windows look brand new for many years.
- Install window screens to block out debris and insects.
- Clean your windows on a regular basis so they look great all year long.
- If you have a storm window made from glass, keep it free of dirt and smudges by using a soft cloth dipped in lukewarm water with a few tablespoons of vinegar or a special-purpose glass cleaner.
- Use non-abrasive cleaners when cleaning dirt or debris from the frame of your window. You might also consider applying weather stripping around the perimeter of each window to help seal out moisture and air.
Conclusion
When it comes time to install or replace your windows, consider each type individually before making a decision. Whether you choose traditional double-hung windows, bay windows, picture windows, casement windows or another option entirely depends on the amount of natural light you prefer, as well as where the window will be situated on your house.
Once you decide on the type of window you want you can contact a contractor for an estimate. This can also be a good time to compare costs and get recommendations for other home improvement projects.
FAQ
How do I hire a siding company in Oklahoma?
Start with the 2026 city winner if they hang the material you want, then call that shop. Get wrap, flashing, and trim on the written estimate. Ask who is on site the week they start.
How much does new siding cost in Oklahoma?
Price depends on material, square footage, tear-off, trim, and access. Vinyl is usually the lowest bid. Engineered wood sits in the middle. Hardie, fiber cement, and brick cost more up front. Ask the shop to split labor and materials on the written estimate.
What should be on a written siding estimate?
Product line and color, square footage, tear-off or reside, housewrap, flashing, trim, soffit, paint or factory finish, dumpster, and start window. If wrap and flashing are missing, the cheap number is usually a thinner scope.
What siding holds up in Oklahoma weather?
Fiber cement and Hardie handle hail, heat, and ice better than thin vinyl. Wood looks right on older homes but needs paint and rot checks. Match the material to the storm risk on your street.
Do I need to replace siding or can I repair it?
Repair works when damage is local: a few cracked boards, one wall, chimney wrap, or trim rot. Full replacement makes sense when the wrap is failing, paint will not hold, water is behind the skin, or you are changing material.
How do I pick a shop?
Most cities have one winner. Start there if they hang the material you want. Call that shop and get wrap, flashing, and trim on the written estimate.
How long does a siding job take?
A typical Tulsa house is days, not months, if weather holds. Homeowners on this issue describe whole-house wraps in a week and smaller chimney or gable jobs in a day or two. Ask about start date, crew size, and whether they tear off and hang in the same week.
Do I need a permit for siding in Tulsa?
Ask the shop who pulls the permit and whose name is on it. Some jobs need a permit, some do not. Get that answer in writing so the start date is not a surprise.
Should I stay in the house during the job?
Most homeowners stay home. Expect noise, outdoor crews, and daily cleanup. If you will be out of town, ask who locks the site and how they reach you. One Tulsa Renew homeowner wrote that a wrap finished while they were away and the yard was cleaned.
What is tear-off versus hanging over the old siding?
Tear-off removes the old skin so the crew can see sheathing, wrap, and rot. Hanging over existing siding is faster and can hide problems. After Oklahoma hail or a leak, ask to see the wall before you agree to reside over it.
How do insurance claims work with siding?
After hail, some shops help walk the claim with the adjuster. Ask who talks to insurance, what the supplement process is, and whether the walls and the roof are one ticket. Get the scope in writing even when insurance is paying.
What warranty should I ask for?
Ask for the manufacturer warranty on the product and a workmanship warranty from the shop. Burnett publishes a live-in-the-home workmanship warranty. Other shops state their terms on the bid. Read what is covered after wind and hail.
The 2026 ranking of Oklahoma siding contractors
Read the ranking, then call the company you want for an estimate.