Replacing new install ( w/nail fin) with replacement

[JDG_Coop]

Have a house in the Lehigh Valley area of PA. Built in the 90's Will be replacing most of the windows.
Current windows are new construction DH w/ nailing fin. Drywall used on interior returns. Is it best to
remove siding, pull nails at nailing fin, remove mounting screws from the window frame and pull window from the outside? If so, should replacement windows be ordered as new construction? Any help on this type removal
is appreciated. Thanks for any help.

[Ricknez]

The most common way is to install "sheetrock to sheetrock" with no nail flange. This can be done properly without compromising the seal. Installing with a flange is the best option but that will also cost much more due to all the extra labor.
Just to reiterate, as long as the installer knows what he is doing, a regular replacement( without flange) sheetrock to sheetrock that is properly sealed and insulated will be just fine.

[HomeSealed]

That method or the method mentioned by Rickenz both work. In the new construction method there are some details that need to be considered such as the jamb depth of the old window (and possible cutback of the drywall return if needed), a slight downsize in the event that the home settled or shifted since it was built, and creating a proper drainage plane (in many cases homes built in the 90's and 2000's did not use best practices or even common sense in some cases.

If working with a professional company these are both totally viable and have some pros and cons. Neither is a great option for a DIY install IMO, if you were considering that.

[Windows on Washington]

Yep. Both are options and completely fine when done properly. Certainly an offset in labor and, to some extent, potential expansion of the work disturbance area with the flange removal.

[JDG_Coop]

Appreciate the feedback.

[TheWindowNerd]

Are you DIY? There is a section for that on this site.

[JDG_Coop]

Yes. I am a DIY guy.