What are Custom Windows

Content What are Custom Windows?

What are Custom Windows?
What to Expect When Ordering Custom Size Windows
Pros and Cons of Custom Windows
Who Sells Custom Windows

Custom windows come in an endless variety of sizes, shapes, and styles. They can even be made to order, allowing you to choose windows that improve the look of your home while also improving energy-efficiency. Expertly installed, custom replacement windows are more likely to achieve your design and energy performance goals than windows you buy off the shelves of big box stores because they are made specifically for your home.

What are Custom Windows?

Made-to-order wood windows are what a lot of folks think of when they think about custom windows. And while that is one option, custom windows encompass a much wider range of possibilities. You can choose among custom aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl windows from some of today's top window manufacturers.

Customization options include size and shape, as well as insulated glass packages and decorative elements like privacy glass, stained glass, and grids. Made-to-order replacement windows offer you the freedom to choose windows based on your home's specific needs, whether it's improved efficiency, unique design features, or a precise size for a more weathertight fit.

What to Expect When Ordering Custom Size Windows

One of the most significant advantages of custom windows is the precision sizing available from major manufacturers. Most window manufacturers offer custom sizing in 1/8" increments. This precise sizing capability means your replacement windows can be ordered to match your existing opening exactly, minimizing gaps that could lead to drafts.

This level of precision is fundamental because it helps ensure a weathertight seal around your new windows. When windows are sized in larger increments, installers may need to use more filler material or make adjustments to the opening, which can create opportunities for air leaks.

Pros and Cons of Custom Windows

When you need new replacement windows for your home, custom windows offer a wealth of advantages. That being said, there are certain situations when a "stock" window off the shelf might suit your needs just fine. Don't hesitate to ask your window and door specialists about the advantages, as well as the potential drawbacks, of custom windows:

Pros of Custom Windows

A Perfect Fit

Sometimes, when clients walk into our showroom they are surprised to learn that we don't keep windows in stock. We order custom-sized windows made individually for each project ensuring that each window fits just right. Not all windows or window openings are the same size, ordering made-to-order window minimizes mistakes and air leakage problems. Custom windows can be made in virtually any size and shape to meet your needs, your choices will depend on the vendor.

Enhanced Energy Efficiency

The potential energy benefits of custom windows are tremendous. For this reason, energy upgrades are some of the most popular window customizations. These include windows with an insulating gas between the panes, glass coatings, or upgrading to a triple-pane design. If you're upgrading a house full of single-pane window units you'll notice an immediate difference in comfort and energy costs.

Endless Design Options

Custom windows allow you to get creative. They can improve the aesthetics of your home, and help it to conform with your unique style and vision. From custom frame designs and sash configurations to unique glass styles and materials, the options are essentially endless.

Cons of Custom Windows

More Expensive

With the amazing flexibility and range of options you get with a custom window, there also comes a higher price tag. This largely reflects the extra work that often goes into designing and manufacturing the window, as well as the added expense of unique or unusual materials or design elements.

Potential Wait Time

Custom windows are often available surprisingly quickly after you place your order. But there will generally be at least some wait time compared to running down to your local home improvement box store and picking up a stock window off the shelf. The wait time between ordering your window and delivery of the product is called the lead time— it is determined by the manufacturer and can increase or decrease depending on demand.

Who Sells Custom Windows

Many of the top brands in the window industry offer customization options. If you're weighting your custom window options, be sure to consider made-to-order windows from one of these trusted window manufacturers:

These vendors are available in North Texas. If you live outside of this area we recommend visiting the dealer website and searching for a local retailer through the dealer locator tool. There may also be additional vendor options here in North Texas or in your area, ask your local window pro for more recommendations.