Carp's Complete Exteriors Warns Omaha Homeowners Against Window Inserts and Retrofits

Carp's Complete Exteriors, Nebraska's first Marvin Authorized Replacement Contractor, is cautioning Omaha homeowners to avoid window inserts and retrofits as the heating season approaches. The company argues that these cheaper options can leave hidden issues unresolved, potentially causing long-term problems.

According to Chad, the co-owner of Carp's Complete Exteriors, inserts and retrofits, which are sold as pocket or retrofit windows, nest inside the existing frame, leaving the old frame and sill intact. This approach can conceal several issues that might not surface for years.

Hidden rot, which can be present in the old frame and sill, is effectively sealed behind the new window, allowing it to continue spreading unseen. Additionally, the visible glass area shrinks, reducing the amount of daylight entering the room and narrowing the view outside. More importantly, the wall's waterproofing remains untouched, meaning any old leaks remain unresolved.

Carp's Complete Exteriors specializes in full-frame window replacements, which involve removing the entire opening down to the rough framing. This process allows the crew to inspect and properly re-seal the condition behind the trim, including the sheathing and studs. Any rotted areas can be dried out or replaced, and new flashing and weather barriers are installed before the full-size window is reinstalled.

Chad emphasized that a full-frame replacement is the only type of window job Carp's does. "Most of what protects your house is behind the trim, in the flashing and the framing, and an insert or a layover never touches any of it. We open the wall, we look, and we fix what we find before the new window ever goes in, which is why we've only ever done full-frame replacement."

Homeowners can save up to 15% on their annual energy costs by replacing old windows with ENERGY STAR-rated Marvin windows, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Carp's installs Marvin windows with triple-pane glass and advanced coatings, backed by Marvin's 20-year glass warranty and the company's own 5-year workmanship warranty. The company has worked on Omaha-area exteriors for over 20 years and holds several prestigious credentials, including being Nebraska's first Marvin Authorized Replacement Contractor and a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor.

Chad advised homeowners to be wary of cheaper options that skip crucial steps.