Retrofit Windows San Diego – Window Replacement

Expert Installation Service from One of the Top Window Replacement Companies in San Diego

The thought of getting new windows installed in your San Diego home can be exciting, but it can also induce anxiety in some people. Homeowners who have never gone through the process of replacing their windows tend to have a lot of questions. What types of windows do they need? What window brands are best for San Diego homes? Who should they hire to install their new windows? What other questions should they be asking that they don’t even know to ask?

At BM Windows, we do our best to help demystify the process of having your home’s windows replaced. We’ve been working with San Diego homeowners for many years now, and we know some of the most common concerns people have and how to walk them through the various decisions that need to be made regarding replacement windows.

One of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether you need replacement windows (also called retrofit windows) or new construction windows. Replacement windows are, by far, the most common types of windows installed in existing homes.

What Are Replacement Windows?

Replacement windows are windows that are installed within the frames of your home’s current windows. Your old windows are carefully removed, leaving only the frames, and are replaced with new window units that are more energy efficient and offer better sound suppression. Doing it this way allows the surrounding walls to be preserved, so there is no expensive repair work to be done following the installation of your new windows.

Where to Buy Retrofit Windows San Diego

Replacement windows are typically sold and installed by companies that specialize in these types of windows. While you can order replacement windows through local “big box” stores, you won’t get the selection of products that is available from replacement window dealers. You are also unlikely to get the advantage of having your new windows installed by highly trained window installation specialists. Rather, the installation will be outsourced to subcontractors who may or may not have experience in replacement window installation.

At BM Windows, we sell replacement windows from some of the top window manufacturers. These brands are only available from authorized dealers and come with a lifetime warranty on both the windows themselves and the parts and labor used in the installation.

Before we order your new windows, we come to your San Diego home and take careful measurements so your replacement windows are sure to fit perfectly within the frames of your current windows. Since every window we sell is made to order, you can add any number of optional upgrades, such as decorative grids, upgraded locking mechanisms, or extra insulating features. However, for many homes, paying extra for upgrades is not necessary because all the windows we sell come standard with many of the great features homeowners are looking for! We’ll never try to upsell you on features you don’t need or want. However, if there is an optional upgrade we think you could benefit from, we’ll make sure you know about it.

BM was one of many companies we had come out to provide a quote on our window upgrade project. This was the first time we purchased new windows and out of all of the companies we met with, BM provided unparalleled service. Not only did they spend the time to educate us on windows in general but they were never pushy or aggressive (which was the complete opposite with the a few other companies we were speaking to). At the end of the day they provided the windows at a substantially cheaper cost than their competitors with a quick install turnaround. They were respectful of our time to think on the decision and were always available to answer any question we had. Their team came out and in one day installed all of our windows. We loved working with BM and will absolutely be recommending them to all friends/family moving forward. Thanks BM for great work, we love our new windows!

– Mikaela N., San Diego

Advantages of Replacement Windows

The main advantage in purchasing replacement windows over new construction windows is their price. Replacement windows are far less expensive to have installed than new construction windows. This largely has to do with the amount of labor that goes into the installation of each type of window. To install new construction windows in an existing home, it requires you to remove the exterior wall material to expose the studs of the home. Then, after the new construction windows are installed, the wall has to be repaired and repainted. The process is expensive and very time consuming.

Since replacement windows are installed within the home’s existing window frames, there are no repairs needed after the installation of the new windows. At BM Windows, we can often install all new windows in a house in just one day. You won’t have to bring in any other contractors, such as painters or someone to patch your stucco or siding after we leave, either!

Considerations for Retrofit Windows

There aren’t really any “downsides” to retrofit windows, but one thing you will want to keep in mind is that your viewing area may be slightly smaller once you replace your windows. This is because the new window unit has a frame of its own that sits inside your exiting window frame. Most homeowners don’t mind this change, but it’s something to be aware of. Many people actually prefer the look of replacement windows over their original windows, since it can give the home a more “crafted” look on the exterior.  You can take a look at our gallery to see what replacement windows look like in the homes of some of our actual customers to get a good idea of what to expect.

Styles and Features for Replacement Windows

Replacement windows come in all of the window styles you’re familiar with, and maybe even some that you aren’t! At BM Windows, you can choose from single sliders, as well as double or even triple sliders (also known as 3-lite sliders). We have single hung and double hung windows, casement windows, picture windows, garden windows, awning windows, and more. If you’re not sure what styles of windows will work best in your home, or if you just want to know more about all the available options, one of our helpful team members can walk you though the pros and cons of the various styles.

You also have many options when it comes to add-on features. Some upgrades are simply decorative, while others improve the function of your windows. Some decorative options include window grids, colored frames, and different frame profiles. Functional upgrades include advanced locking systems, upgraded energy efficiency packages, and improved sound suppression technology.

Summary of Differences between New Construction and Retrofit Windows and Doors

Contact BM Windows to Set Up an Initial Appointment

If you’re ready to get the process started of having replacement windows installed in your San Diego home, contact us at BM Windows to schedule an in-home appointment. At your appointment, we can answer any questions you have and provide you with helpful information about our products. We can also provide you with an all-inclusive quote. If you need financing, we can get you approved on the spot!