replacing oldddddd windows

has anyone replaced sash weighted windows in their home?

my house was built in 1929 and has some nice sized windows with pretty molding, but some of the windows are having trouble. I'm wondering if they will have to cut out everything to replace the windows. Or if it will be a quick pop the old out, pop the new in.

I have no idea what to expect or what the cost could run me. If anyone has any words of advice I'd greatly appreciate it!
thanks.

Re: replacing oldddddd windows

can you reweight them? we rehung the weights in a bunch of ours and they work soooo much better now. we don't really want to consider replacing ours becuse we would have to remove (possibly destroy) the original molding, plus plaster walls etc etc

Re: replacing oldddddd windows

It depends on which route you want to take.

Replacing windows is a costly endavor if you want to do it the proper way b/c you have to remove everything: The frame, moulding, sheetrock, siding, etc; but in the end you will save money b/c you will save on your energy bills.

A more cost effective way of doing this is to do replacement windows. This is when you leave the frame of the original window and just replace the sashes. But you need to make sure the exterior wood is not rotted otherwise that has to be replaced too otherwise you'll have drafts.

My DH is a contractor so we've had this conversation before!

Re: replacing oldddddd windows

My house was built in 1920, so we probably have similar moldings and original windows.

The previous owners had all of the windows replaced, except 2 in our bedroom (used to be the attic).. why? I have no idea. I don't know the name, but they have a cord that helps them go up and down. They have such a draft and anytime the wind blows, the window moves and knocks around.. they need to go soon!!

If you do end up replacing them, I would suggest removing the inside molding if you want to keep it. We have beautiful molding around all the windows and doors, and when we had the front door replaced, DH removed the moldings carefully so they could be put back later. I would doubt that whoever is installing them would be careful, and we didn't want to take any chances.

Re: replacing oldddddd windows

My parents house is also from 1929 and I know my parents have never replaced the windows. My dad has put new glass in them, but have not taken the whole window out. Sorry this was no help.