Anyone tried windows made from recycled stuff? Worth it or nah?

Yeah, I had a similar thing happen. Thought just swapping out the glass would do the trick, but those old frames let in a breeze like nobody’s business. Ended up stuffing some insulation tape around the edges and it actually helped a lot. The recycled windows themselves seem solid - no weird fogging or anything - but if your frames are sketchy, it kinda defeats the whole point. Definitely not totally silent either, but it’s way better than before.

I kinda get what you’re saying about the frames, but I’m not sure it’s always the frame’s fault. My buddy swapped to recycled windows in his 70s ranch, and yeah, the frames weren’t perfect, but he added some weatherstripping instead of insulation tape and that seemed to seal things up way better. Maybe it depends on the type of frame or how warped they are? Also, his place actually got a bit quieter - still not library-silent, but less street noise for sure. Guess there’s more than one way to skin this cat...

- Kinda see where you’re coming from, but I’m not totally convinced weatherstripping fixes everything.
- My cousin’s place had recycled windows put in last winter. Frames were a little warped, and even after adding all the weatherstripping, there was still a draft near the bottom corners. Maybe it’s just bad luck, or maybe some frames are just too far gone?
- Noticed you mentioned less street noise - my experience was the opposite. The glass seemed thinner than the original windows, so cars sounded louder during rush hour. Wonder if recycled windows vary a lot depending on where they come from.
- Price-wise, they were cheaper up front, but he had to mess with them more than expected - lots of little adjustments over a few months.
- Honestly, I’d probably look at how bad your current frames are before deciding. If they’re really out of shape, new windows might be less hassle long term.
- Not saying recycled is bad or anything - just seems like it depends on what you’re starting with and how picky you are about drafts and noise...

Yeah, I get what you mean about weatherstripping not being a cure-all. Sometimes those old frames just don’t cooperate, no matter how much you tinker with them. I’ve run into drafts that just wouldn’t quit too, even after layering on the foam and tape. On the noise thing - I’ve actually had mixed results depending on the batch of recycled windows, so you’re not alone there. Still, props for giving it a shot instead of going straight to new. Sometimes it’s worth experimenting to see what works for your place.

Sometimes those old frames just don’t cooperate, no matter how much you tinker with them.

Man, you nailed it. I’ve had some 60s aluminum frames that just laughed at every type of weatherstripping I tried. Recycled windows are a mixed bag in my book - some batches insulate decently, but I’ve had panes warp a bit after a couple winters. If you’re not picky about looks and can live with a little trial and error, they’re worth a shot. But yeah, not a magic fix for drafts or street noise, especially if the frame’s already got issues.