Design Minute: Types of New Windows

From materials to installation styles, Pinnacle Owner, Christian Raab, shares some helpful information regarding windows in this short video.

While windows might not be the most glamorous remodel item, the right choices will improve comfort, lower energy costs, and dramatically update the look of your home. Below is Christian's summary of the key takeaways and practical recommendations to help you choose the right windows for your Wichita home.

Why Replace Your Windows?

Replacing windows is an investment that delivers both functional and aesthetic benefits:

• Improved energy efficiency. Modern windows carry far higher efficiency ratings than units installed 20–30 years ago. Upgrading can reduce drafts and lower heating and cooling costs.

• Updated curb appeal. New windows change the look of your home. A modern frame or a contrasting trim color can make windows pop and refresh exterior and interior spaces. One aesthetic we've seen gaining popularity in Wichita is black windows paired with white trim. The thinner black frame creates a clean, contemporary sightline while the white trim provides contrast that makes each opening stand out. This combination works equally well on modern builds and traditional homes seeking a refreshed look.

• Long-term value and comfort. Well-installed, high-quality windows improve the comfort of living spaces and contribute to the overall longevity of your home envelope.

Window Materials: Pros and Cons

The material you choose affects durability, maintenance, and interior appearance. Here are the options we recommend:

Composite or Fiberglass

Fiberglass is generally more durable than vinyl and resistant to warping, cracking, and heavy weather. It also requires little upkeep compared with wood window.

Wood (Interior) / Wood-Clad (Exterior)

A wood-clad window gives you the beauty of wood on the inside for a warm, finished interior while protecting the exterior with a metal cladding (commonly aluminum).

The inside wood provides a premium look and allows you to stain or paint it to match the interior of your home. On the other hand, cladding the exterior with aluminum eliminates the need to maintain the exterior wood.

It's the best of both worlds and a strong choice when you want interior craftsmanship without exterior maintenance concerns.

Installation Options: Full Replacement vs. Insert Replacement

How a window is installed has as much impact on performance as the window itself. We recommend the full replacement (new construction) method for most projects.

Here’s why:

Full Replacement (New Construction Window)

When you go with this option, you're basically installing fresh material and finishes without having to deal with the wear and tear of old windows.

For us, we install newly constructed windows by first removing the old window, frame, and trim down to the studs, installing the new windows, and then applying caulk behind the new windows' fin, plus wrapping a weatherproof tape around the opening to create a tight exterior seal.

On the inside, we spray foam around the frame and finish the trim, ensuring a well-sealed opening. 

The second option you can go for is the replacement window.

Replacement/Insert Window

These windows are generally quicker to install than building new windows. The contractor leaves the existing frame, removes the sashes, and slides in the new unit without the nail fin. While it's faster and often less expensive upfront, you would miss out on the opportunity to fully seal the opening with foam and tape, which could compromise long-term performance and durability.

Our Recommendation

For most homeowners who want long-term performance and the best possible efficiency, we recommend:

• Choosing composite/fiberglass or wood-clad windows for the balance of durability, performance, and interior finish.

• Opting for a full replacement (new construction window with a nail fin) so the opening can be properly sealed with caulk, weatherproof tape, and foam.

This approach helps ensure your new windows perform well for years to come and protect the investment you make in your home.

Next Steps

If you’d like to explore window options for your home—materials, finishes, or installation methods—our team at Pinnacle Remodel is ready to help. We can walk through styles that fit your home’s architecture, evaluate existing conditions, and provide a plan that balances appearance, performance, and budget.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us to review your project and recommend the best path forward.