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TYPES OF WINDOW INSTALLATIONS

CONSIDER:
STATE OF CURRENT WINDOWS
TYPE OF WINDOWS TO BE INSTALLED
BUDGET

DISCOVER THE different types of window installation methods to find WHAT YOUR HOUSE NEEDS.

RETROFIT / FRAME TO FRAME
STUD TO STUD
BRICK TO BRICK

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Window Installation Process

Come along with product specialist Francesco as he visits a recent job site and shows off different types of window installations at a replacement project in Mississauga, Ontario.

From cracked frames to seal failures, there are many reasons why your outdated windows need to be replaced.

Our expert installation teams take precautions to protect the inside of your home and will remove your old windows, prepare the rough opening and install your new energy-efficient windows from EcoTech.

Looking to upgrade your home? Contact us today to book a no-obligation consultation.

COMMON WINDOW INSTALLATION OPTIONS

Retrofit / Frame to Frame Window Installations

The primary difference between a new window installation and retrofitted windows is how the window frame is attached to the house. If your existing windows were installed correctly and do not have issues with leaks, retrofit windows can be a great option.

 

Retrofitting your windows is a popular choice because it is the most cost-effective solution. The installation process is quick and easy, and it doesn’t require tearing into your interior or exterior walls.

Advantages of Retrofit Installations:

  • Cost effective due to less labour and materials.
  • Quicker installation process.
  • Minimal disruption to interior and exterior finishes.

Disadvantages of Retrofit Installations:

  • Potential for reduced glass area, affecting natural light.
  • May not address underlying frame issues that may be the cause of leaks or drafts.

Stud to Stud / Full-frame
Window Installation

A full-frame window installation involves removing your existing window frames, casing, and jambs and replacing them with entirely new components. This process removes all parts of the old windows down to the studs.

 

New aluminum flashing is typically installed and integrated into your home’s structure, then sealed with caulking to prevent water infiltration. On the interior, foam insulation is applied to block drafts and improve energy efficiency.

 

Compared to retrofitting, a full-frame installation is a more time-consuming process, but it provides a complete upgrade for your windows.

Advantages of Full-Frame Installations:

  • Opportunity to inspect and repair structural issues.
  • Allows for changes in window style or size.
  • Ensures maximum energy-efficiency with new insulation and sealing.

Disadvantages of Full-Frame Installations:

  • More labour intensive and time-consuming.
  • Additional costs due to increased labour and materials.
  • Potential need for interior and exterior touch-ups post-installation.

Brick to Brick
Window Installation

Brick-to-brick window installation is similar to stud-to-stud installation, with the key difference being the addition of a brick mould on your new vinyl windows. This process involves removing the existing window frame, sash, jamb, and casing and replacing them with a new window, along with a vinyl casing and jamb.

 

Once installed, the space between the wall and the brick mould is filled with foam insulation and sealed with caulking to ensure maximum water and air resistance.

 

This is the most extensive and time-consuming type of window installation, making it the most expensive option. However, it provides a complete replacement for long-term durability and performance.

Advantages of Brick-to-Brick Installations:

  • Ideal for older homes, or those with deteriorated frames.
  • Ensures a complete update of the window system.
  • Enhances energy-efficiency and aesthetic appeal.

Disadvantages of Brick-to-Brick Installations:

  • Comprehensive work leads to more expensive costs.
  • Longest installation time.
  • May require additional masonry work.

Installation Type Comparison

Installation Type Cost Best For Frame Replacement Impact on Surroundings Energy Efficiency
Retrofit
(Frame-to-Frame)		 Lower Homes with good-condition existing frames No Minimal Moderate (depends on condition of frames)
Full-Frame
(Stud-to-Stud)		 Medium Homes needing structural updates Yes Some interior/exterior trim work High (new frame + insulation)
Brick-to-Brick Higher Older homes; Full-frame replacements Yes High (potential for masonry work) Highest (new frame + insulation)

How Can I Prepare My Home for Installation Day?

Clear the Work Area

  • Move furniture, decor, and electronics at least 3 feet away from the windows.
  • EcoTech will bring floor covers to protect the area around the window.
  • You may want to cover valuables with drop cloths to guard against other dust and debris.
  • Remove any fragile items from shelves or nearby surfaces to ensure no damage.
  • If applicable, disable security sensors on your windows and doors prior to your installation time.
  • Keep pets and children away from the installation areas for their safety.
  • Don’t forget the exterior work area:
    • Cut back any bushes or branches, and clear away any snow during cold weather installations, to give safe access to the install team.
    • Make sure there’s a clear path to each installation area, both inside and outside.
    • Unlock any gates that need to be opened.
    • If parking is limited, reserve a spot close to your home for the installation team.

Plan for the Weather

  • Discuss a contingency plan with your installation team for extreme weather that could delay sealing or curing.
  • Depending on the details of the installation, some openings will have to be open for an extended time, be sure to 

Window Installations In Ontario

VAUGHAN WINDOWS
  • A retrofit installation involves installing new windows on the existing window frames.
  • Installers will remove the inner part of your window, leaving the trim in place. The interior casing and window jamb will remain intact and will not be removed.
  • New windows will be installed within the current frame.
  • Windows will be shimmed and foamed in place.
  • The exterior part of the window will be capped and caulked to prevent water from getting into your frame.
  • Existing casing will be caulked, helping to prevent air leaks and drafts.

OUR VINYL WINDOWS COLLECTION

Casement Window - vinyl windows
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Casement Windows

Hung window
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Hung Windows

An example of a hopper window.
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Hopper Windows

Awning Window
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Awning Windows

Single Slider Window
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Single Slider Windows

Double Slider Window
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Double Slider Windows

BAY Window
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Bay Windows

Bow Window
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Bow Windows

High-Performance Vinyl Windows For Canada

Experience the difference with EcoSmart Technology.

Let visible light in and warm your home naturally with insulated frames from EcoTech. Enjoy greater comfort while reducing your energy consumption.

  • Reduce energy loss and lower your utility bill.
  • Eligible for government incentives and rebates.
  • Multi-point locking system provides improved security.
  • Super Spacer® provides superior thermal insulation and noise reduction.
  • Meets and exceeds Energy Star® and NAFS-22 standards.
The EcoSmart Logo.
window quoting process

Frequently Asked Questions About
Types of Window Installations

What are the main types of window installations?

There are three primary types of window installations:

  • Frame-to-Frame (Retrofit) Installation – A cost-effective option where new windows are installed into the existing frame without removing interior or exterior trim.
  • Full-Frame Installation – Involves removing the entire window, including the frame, jamb, and casing, and replacing it with a new complete unit.
  • Brick-to-Brick Installation – A full-frame installation for homes with brick exteriors, including the addition of a brick mould for a finished look.

Full-frame installation is best when your existing windows have structural issues, leaks, or poor insulation. It provides a complete upgrade with better energy efficiency, a tighter seal, and a fresh look.

The right choice depends on the condition of your current windows, your budget, and your long-term goals. If your frames are in good shape, retrofit installation is a cost-effective option.

If you need a full replacement, full-frame or brick-to-brick installation is the best solution.

Since these methods require removing the entire window, some touch-ups to interior walls, exterior cladding, or trim may be needed.

However, EcoTech installation teams take measures to minimize damage and ensure a clean finish.

A retrofit installation is ideal if your existing window frames are in good condition, with no signs of rot, warping, or water damage.

This option is more affordable and faster since it does not require removing the entire window frame.

Brick-to-brick installation is similar to full-frame installation but includes a brick mould, which enhances the exterior finish and integrates seamlessly with a brick home.

This is the most extensive installation method and is typically the most expensive due to the added labour and materials.

Full-frame and brick-to-brick installations tend to be the most energy-efficient because they involve replacing the entire window unit and sealing any gaps with insulation.

However, a well-installed retrofit window can also provide excellent energy efficiency if the existing frame is in good condition.

EcoTech installers typically work on one opening at a time to minimize exposure. For full-frame and brick-to-brick installations, temporary coverings (tarps or blankets) may be used to prevent drafts, rain, or debris from entering your home.

Experienced Vinyl Windows Installation Services
Near You in Ontario

We have experienced, professional installation crews in your community – anywhere in Ontario.

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