Replace Windows Without Tearing Up Your Walls

Retrofit window installation in Lancaster that fits your existing frames and reduces energy costs.

Your home in Lancaster may have windows that fog between the panes, leak air around the edges, or let too much heat pass through during summer afternoons. Retrofit window installation replaces the glass and operating sash while leaving the original frame in place, which means less time cutting into stucco or patching drywall. If your home was built more than 20 years ago, this method fits the construction style common throughout Lancaster and keeps the work contained to the window opening itself.

First Choice General Contractor removes the old window sash, cleans and prepares the existing frame, then installs a new energy-efficient unit that fits inside the opening. This method works well with stucco and framed homes, and you get dual-pane or Low-E glass that blocks heat and reduces noise from nearby streets. The installation takes a few hours per window, and the interior and exterior finishes stay intact. You can pair this service with door replacement or interior finish upgrades if you are updating multiple rooms.

Schedule an in-home measurement in Lancaster to review your window openings and compare glass options.

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How the frame stays and the performance improves

The crew in Lancaster measures each opening, orders units built to match your frame dimensions, then removes the interior stops and lifts out the old sash. The new window slides into the prepared opening and gets shimmed, leveled, and fastened to the frame using corrosion-resistant screws. Exterior caulking seals the perimeter, and new interior stops hold the unit in place. You choose the glass type, grid pattern, and frame color before the order goes in.

After installation, you will notice that the window opens and closes smoothly, the glass no longer fogs, and the room stays cooler when the sun is directly on the wall. Your air conditioner will not cycle as often, and outside noise from traffic or equipment drops noticeably. The sill and surrounding trim look the same as they did before the work started.

This method does not require cutting into the exterior stucco or reframing the rough opening, so the job finishes faster and leaves no large patches to repair. If the original frame is rotted or out of square, a full replacement may be necessary, and the crew will identify that during the measurement visit. The work pairs well with stucco repair or interior paint projects if you are already scheduling other upgrades.

Most homeowners want to know what fits their setup

The questions below cover the details that come up during estimates and help you understand what to expect before the installation day.

What types of windows work with retrofit installation?
Single-hung, double-hung, sliding, and casement windows all work with retrofit installation as long as the existing frame is square and structurally sound. First Choice General Contractor measures the opening and confirms compatibility during the estimate.
How long does it take to install retrofit windows?
Most single windows take two to three hours to remove, install, and seal. A full home with eight to ten windows typically finishes in one to two days, depending on the size and access.
What happens if the frame is damaged or rotted?
If the frame shows rot, water damage, or severe warping, the crew will recommend a full replacement that includes new framing and exterior finish work. That option takes longer but ensures the window sits level and seals correctly.
When should I replace windows instead of repairing them?
You should replace windows when the glass is fogged, the sash no longer locks, or the frame leaks air even after weatherstripping is added. Retrofit installation solves all of those issues without removing the surrounding stucco or trim.
Why is Low-E glass recommended in Lancaster?
Low-E glass reflects infrared heat and reduces the amount of thermal energy that passes through the window, which keeps your home cooler during summer and lowers cooling costs. It also blocks UV rays that fade furniture and flooring.

First Choice General Contractor measures your window openings in Lancaster, walks you through glass and frame options, and provides a written estimate that includes materials and labor. Contact us to schedule your measurement and review the styles that fit your home.