When replacing your home’s windows, you must first choose whether you want full frame replacement windows or a pocket/insert replacement windows.
If you’re not sure what those terms mean, and which is right for you, that’s no problem. Lots of homeowners who are shopping for replacement windows in Cary, NC have the same questions.
That’s why we’ve written this helpful guide to walk you through the options for your window replacement project.
We also created a free, printable, one page comparison chart, to make your decision even easier. Just scroll down to the bottom of this article and click to download and print it now!
Insert Window Replacement
In an insert window replacement, installers remove the sash and hardware of your existing window. They then install a new window within the existing window frame. The resulting window will have less glass area.
Other Names for Insert Window Replacement:
- Insert window replacement
- Pocket window replacement
- Frame-in-frame replacement
What’s Removed During Insert Window Replacement?
The old sashes and hardware are the only parts of the existing window removed.
What’s Retained During Insert Window Replacement?
The existing window frame and interior and exterior trim (casing) remain in place during an insert window replacement.
Benefits of Insert Window Replacement
- This option is generally less expensive and less time consuming than a full frame replacement.
- Pocket replacement preserves existing interior and exterior trim. This may be important if you have custom trim work.
Limitations of Insert Window Replacement
Because the existing frame is not removed, there may be additional cost associated with assessing for any rot or other issues in the walls around your window. That’s because your window installation team does not have as much access to the wall area during an insert window replacement.
Nor can they make any adjustments to the existing window frame, including shimming, re-insulating, etc. without removing your exterior casing.
The resulting window will be smaller than the current window. Thus, it may not make sense to do pocket window replacements for very small windows.
Insert Window Replacement is Best Suited for:
This type of replacement is ideal for medium to large sized windows with structurally sound frames. Put another way, windows with no energy efficiency or moisture/leakage concerns.
Pocket insert replacement is an option for all styles of windows, including casements, picture windows, and double hung windows.
Here in central North Carolina, we typically perform these replacements on older wood windows.
Insert Window Replacement is Not Suited for:
Older windows where homeowners suspect rot. Or, windows showing signs of malfunction or warping. Very small windows (such as dormer windows) where a smaller glass area would look wrong.
Full Frame Window Replacement
During a full frame replacement, the entire existing window is removed and replaced with an all new window. First, window installers completely remove the existing window and trim. This creates a rough opening down to the wall studs. Finally, a completely new window is installed.
Other Names for Full Frame Window Replacement:
- Total tear out
- Complete replacement
What’s Removed During Full Frame Window Replacement?
The installation crew first removes the entire existing window. This includes removing all casing (moulding) and framing. The crew may also remove some exterior siding, especially if they are replacing the window with a larger window.
What’s Retained During Full Frame Window Replacement?
Nothing of the original window remains during a full frame window replacement. All materials used in the window replacement are new.
Benefits of Full Frame Window Replacement
Full frame window replacement allows homeowners to change the size, color, and type of windows they have. For instance, you can easily swap out a small, white, single-hung window for a large, black, picture window during a full frame replacement.
Full frame replacement also allows your installation team to make your new windows as energy efficient as possible. This includes shimming the windows into place, as well as adding additional insulation around your new windows.
Finally, full frame replacement allows you to choose a rot-resistant material for your window exterior. That way, you never have to worry about your windows rotting after you’ve replaced them.
Limitations of Full Frame Window Replacement
This option is generally more expensive than a pocket window replacement. The additional materials and labor needed for proper installation are what drive this increase in price.
A full frame window replacement will also generally take more time to complete. That’s because it takes more time to properly set the window in place. This includes insulating the window and shimming it to ensure that it is plum, level, and square. This method also requires the new application of any brickmould, interior mouldings, etc. that the homeowner wants around the window frame.
Full Frame Window Replacement is Best Suited for:
- Windows with known or suspected rot issues.
- Windows that aren’t functioning properly, or that are older and breaking down.
- Homeowners who want to change the look of their windows (different window style, size, color, material, etc.)
Full Frame Window Replacement is Not Suited for:
There are no conditions when a full frame window replacement would not be a suitable option.
Free, 1-Page Printable Comparing Full Frame Window Replacement and Insert Window Replacement
Summary
There are a lot of decisions to make when you’re shopping for new windows. Whether you want a full frame replacement or a pocket insert is just the first of many choices you’ll make.
Smart homeowners want to work with professionals who can guide them through every critical decision.
That’s where we come in.
Window Works Co. has helped thousands of families in the Triangle find the windows they love.
We want to help you, too!
Fill out the form below to tell us what you need, and get your free estimate appointment scheduled today!
