Murray's Most Trusted Window & Door Replacement Experts

Full frame installation removes the entire window unit—glass, sash, frame, and trim—down to the rough opening. New windows are installed directly to the structural framing with complete sealing and insulation.

Best For:

• Older homes (pre-1980s) with deteriorated frames
• Replacing windows with rot, water damage, or structural issues
• Maximum energy efficiency upgrades
• Changing window size or style

Pros: ✓ Most thorough and permanent solution ✓ Best energy efficiency and weatherproofing ✓ Allows inspection and repair of framing ✓ Can accommodate size changes

Cons: ✗ Most expensive option ✗ Longer installation time (4-6 hours per window) ✗ Requires interior and exterior work ✗ May need trim/drywall repair

Cost: $$$$ | Timeline: 1-2 days for typical home
Energy Performance: Excellent – complete seal and insulation

Also called “pocket installation,” this method installs a new window unit into the existing frame. The old sash is removed but the frame stays in place.

Best For:

• Homes with frames in good condition (no rot or damage)
• Quick, clean installations
• Budget-conscious projects
• Preserving interior/exterior trim

Pros: ✓ Most affordable option ✓ Fastest installation (1-2 hours per window) ✓ No interior disruption or trim work needed ✓ Clean process with minimal mess

Cons: ✗ Slightly smaller glass area (frame stays in place) ✗ Cannot fix underlying frame issues ✗ Not suitable if frame is damaged ✗ Cannot change window size

Cost: $$ | Timeline: Same-day installation typical
Energy Performance: Very Good – when frames are in good condition

Retrofit installation fits new windows into existing frames using adapter kits. Similar to insert installation but with additional customization options.

Best For:

• Non-standard or odd-sized openings
• Historic homes requiring frame preservation
• When original frame dimensions must be maintained
• Commercial-to-residential conversions

Pros: ✓ Preserves original frame and trim ✓ Customizable to unusual openings ✓ Less expensive than full frame ✓ Faster than full replacement

Cons: ✗ Frame must be in excellent condition ✗ More expensive than standard insert ✗ Limited manufacturer options ✗ May reduce glass area slightly

Cost: $$$ | Timeline: 2-3 hours per window
Common Use: 15% of residential projects

Windows attach directly to exposed wall framing with nailing fins. Despite the name, also used in major remodels where walls are opened.

Best For:

• New home construction
• Room additions
• Major remodels with exposed framing
• Replacing windows where siding is being replaced

Pros: ✓ Strongest structural attachment ✓ Best water/air sealing when done correctly ✓ Most flexibility in placement ✓ Can easily adjust rough opening size

Cons: ✗ Requires exposed framing (walls opened) ✗ Not practical for simple replacements ✗ Requires siding/exterior work ✗ More expensive and time-consuming

Cost: $$$$ | Timeline: Varies by project scope
Common Use: New construction and major remodels only

Only the moving sash (glass and operating parts) is replaced. Frame, jamb, and trim all remain.

Best For:

• Windows with damaged sash but good frames
• Historic preservation (matching original frames)
• Temporary repairs
• Extreme budget constraints

Pros: ✓ Most affordable option ✓ Quickest installation (30-60 minutes) ✓ Minimal disruption ✓ Preserves historic frames

Cons: ✗ Limited energy efficiency improvement ✗ Doesn’t address frame issues ✗ Old frame visible ✗ Fewer style/color options

Cost: $ | Timeline: 1 day for whole home
Note: Less common—most homeowners choose insert or full frame for better long-term value

Specialized method using vertical or horizontal bars (mullions) to join multiple window units into one large expanse.

Primary Use: Commercial buildings (offices, storefronts, retail)
Residential Use: Rare – occasionally used for large window walls in contemporary homes
Note: Most homeowners won’t need this method

Used when no frame exists or when building a custom opening from scratch.

Primary Use: Custom construction, non-standard openings
Common Applications: Basement egress windows, new opening creation
Note: Similar to new construction but for specialized situations