Industry Name:	AKA:	Abbreviation:
Horizontal Slider	Half Vent	XO
Vertical Slider	Single Hung	SH
Fixed	Picture Window	PW
Geometric	Half Round	HRPW
Geometric	Round Top Picture	RTPW
Bay Window
Bow Window
Casement		CSMNT
Awning		AWNG
French Door		FD
Sliding Glass Door		SGD
Garden Window		GW
Replacement Window	Retrofit	Zbar
New Construction	Nail On	N/o
Block Frame	H - bar

Handing:

X is always the moving / operating panel
O is always the stationary / non operating panel
H is a hinged sidelite
F is a fixed non operating sidelite

Handing is always from the outside view of the home.


Replacement VS New Construction

“You will often hear contractors and manufacturers use the terms New Construction or Replacement (Retrofit) when discussing residential windows. While neither window must be used exclusively for the project after which they're named, each has specific advantages designed for these different installation methods.

New Construction Window

New construction windows typically have a nail fin. When homes are built, the framing is likely constructed of wood studs. The nail fin rests against the outside of the stud, and nails or screws are driven through the holes in the fin. All other exterior materials are then applied and butted up to the frame of the window or trim.

New construction windows also can be used in a replacement project. The exterior materials, such as window trim (if it exists), siding, stucco or flashing, are removed, exposing the wood studs. The new window is then installed as it would have been when the home was originally built. Exposing the original studs also allows your contractor to see potential damage (typically rot) or home settling that may have occurred. The damage can be repaired, and the new window installed with proper insulation to minimize air infiltration between the new window and the studs. As you can imagine, this method can be more time consuming so often costs more than other replacement methods.

Replacement (Retrofit) Window

Replacement windows have been developed as a labor and cost-cutting alternative. There are two main types of replacement windows:

• "Flush fin" (also called Z-bar) replacement windows are typically used in California and other markets with aluminum windows in stucco home exteriors. This method leaves the original aluminum window frame intact and provides very little opportunity for the stucco siding to be damaged. If you and your contractor choose this method, be sure to ask to see photos of Z-bar products installed in a home like yours so you can visualize the results.
• "Block frame," or insert replacement windows, are typically found in markets where wood windows are in place, and the exterior is siding or brick. In most parts of the country, the block frame window is simply a new construction window frame with the nail fin removed. Your contractor will want to ensure that there's been no damage to the studs and there is proper insulation and flashing before using this type of window.

For either New Construction or Replacement windows, be sure to look for certain features that differentiate between high and low-quality windows. Some key elements to look for include:

• The NFRC Label: National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a non-profit organization that administers the only independent rating and labeling system for the energy performance of windows, doors, skylights and attachment products.
• Metal lock components that fit together well—stainless steel is recommended.
• Matching colors on all components.
• Heat-welded joints as opposed to the window sash and frame being mechanically fastened and held together by screws, brackets and caulk. ” Milgard Website www.Milgard.com

Differences Between Window Materials:

Vinyl

• Dual pane
• Energy Efficient
• Predominately White or Tan
• Can come in bronze by certain manufacturers
• Welded corners
• Glass can include grids, tint, or obscure glass
• Cannot be painted or stained
• Does not conduct heat or cold
• Extruded frames
• Cost effective
• Light maintenance
• Custom made to your size
• Replacement or new construction

Fiberglass

• Dual pane
• Energy Efficient
• Standard colors include: White, Bronze, Tan, Sand, Hunter Green, Cranberry/Red, Silver and more
• Can choose your own color (some manufacturers charge)
• Can be painted or stained
• Can be painted dark colors without compromising its structural integrity
• Glass can include grids, true divided lights, tint, or obscure glass
• Protruded frames
• Non welded corners – Corners are assembled using corner keys that are screwed together and injected with silicone
• Weather resistant – impervious to water, heat, cold, insects, salt air, ultra violet rays
• Eight times stronger than vinyl
• Light maintenance
• Custom made to your size
• Replacement or new construction

Wood-Clad (Aluminum)

• Dual pane
• Energy Efficient
• Standard colors
• Can choose your own color (some manufacturers charge)
• Exterior can be painted; interior can be stained or painted
• Mix and match exterior colors
• Extruded frame or roll form (depending on manufacturer)
• Glass can include grids, true divided lights, tint, or obscure glass
• Weather resistant – impervious to water, heat, cold, insects, salt air, & ultra violet rays
• Multiple interior wood species
• Radius doors
• More traditional look interior
• Resembles traditional wood windows
• Exterior trim available ie: casing or brick mold
• Some maintenance required
• Custom made to your size
• Replacement or new construction