Free in-home measure and quote - PGT, CGI and CWS impact lines compared on your actual openings, style by style
Sliding glass doors
Impact garage doorsPGTCGI
Before
After
Before
After
Before
AfterFull Frame Replacement in Miami Gardens, FL
Full frame replacement is the process of removing an existing window down to the rough opening studs, including the entire frame, sill, and brick mold, before installing a brand-new window unit. In Miami Gardens, we often see homes built in the 1960s and 1970s where the original wood frames have succumbed to Florida’s high humidity and salt air, causing rot that a simple insert window cannot fix. When the underlying structure of the window opening is compromised, you need a full frame replacement to restore the integrity of your home. At TruePane Windows & Doors, we handle these tear-outs with precision, ensuring the new unit is properly flashed and sealed to withstand local hurricane-prone conditions. If you are noticing soft wood around your frames or signs of water intrusion, call (386) 516-5343 to schedule an assessment. We are often called to fix projects where a previous installer tried to cut corners with an insert instead of addressing the root structural issue, which is why our approach to Window Replacement in Miami Gardens always starts with an honest inspection of what is happening behind the trim.
When You Need Full Frame Replacement
Homeowners in Miami Gardens often ask us if they can simply pop in a new window unit through Storm Window Replacement. Sometimes they can, but when the damage is structural, a full frame replacement is the only way to ensure your home remains protected. We look for specific indicators that the frame itself has failed.
- Rotten or soft wood frames: If you can press a screwdriver into the wood sill or jamb and it sinks, the wood is decaying. In our humid climate, this rot can spread to your wall studs if left untreated.
- Water damage or persistent leaks: If you see water staining on the drywall underneath your windows, it is likely that the original flashing failed years ago. A full frame replacement allows us to pull out the old, failed flashing and install a modern, watertight system.
- Significant shifts in the rough opening: Over decades, the house may settle, causing the window opening to lose its squareness. A full frame job allows us to re-square the opening, ensuring your new Andersen or Pella windows operate smoothly without binding.
- Upgrading from old aluminum to impact-resistant glass: Older aluminum frames are often too thin to support the weight of modern, high-performance impact glass. A full frame replacement allows us to install a structurally reinforced frame designed to handle the weight and pressure requirements of modern Florida building codes.
- Desired change in window size or operation: If you want to change a fixed picture window into an operable casement, or expand the opening to let in more light, you must remove the entire frame to modify the rough opening properly.
If you see these signs, it is time to have a professional look at the structure. We don’t believe in selling you a full frame job if a simpler repair will solve the issue, but we also won’t install a window into a rotting hole in your wall. Give us a call at (386) 516-5343 to discuss your specific situation. We are here to help you make the right choice for your home.
Our Full Frame Replacement Process
We approach every job with the mindset that we are working on our own mother’s house. Our process is deliberate, focused on durability, and centered on the principle that if the pane is not true, the job is not done. When you hire us for a full frame replacement in Miami Gardens, this is the standard we follow.
- Removal and assessment: Our uniformed technicians remove the old window, the sash, and the entire outer frame. We expose the raw studs to check for wood rot or termite damage that might have been hidden behind the trim. If we find damage, we address it before moving forward.
- Preparation of the rough opening: We clean the opening thoroughly and ensure the sill is level and square. In many Miami Gardens homes, we find that the original framing has shifted over the years. We adjust the shims until the opening is perfectly plumb.
- Flashing and weatherproofing: This is the most critical step for Florida homes. We install a high-quality flashing membrane around the perimeter of the rough opening to prevent water infiltration. We ensure the sill pan is properly sloped to direct any moisture away from the interior of your home.
- Installation of the new unit: We set the new window unit into the opening, securing it to the studs according to manufacturer specifications. We verify that the window is square and operates without resistance.
- Insulation and sealing: We seal the gap between the new window frame and the rough opening using professional-grade, low-expansion foam. This prevents air leaks, which are a major contributor to high energy bills in our hot climate.
- Trim work and final inspection: We replace the exterior trim and interior casing to match your home’s aesthetic. We then clean the glass and test the operation of the window one last time before we leave. Every job is backed by our Done Right Promise.
We handle everything from start to finish. You won’t be left with a half-finished wall or a mess to clean up. We treat your property with respect, and we make sure the work is done right the first time.
Full Frame Replacement Pricing in Miami Gardens
Pricing for a full frame replacement in Miami Gardens varies based on the size of the opening, the type of window material (vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass), and the level of structural repair needed behind the wall. Unlike an Insert Window Replacement, which uses the existing frame, a full frame job requires more labor and materials to rebuild the opening correctly. Because we provide side-by-side quotes on paper for brands like Marvin, Pella, you will know exactly what you are paying for before we start.
| Project Scope | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Single-Hung Full Frame | $1,200 - $2,100 per opening |
| Large Picture Window Full Frame | $1,800 - $3,200 per opening |
| Custom Shape or Specialty Window | $2,500 - $4,500+ per opening |
These ranges include the removal of the old unit, materials for the new frame, professional installation, and the warranty registration under The Keystone Standard. Costs can rise if we discover significant structural rot that requires replacing wall studs or header wood. We are transparent about these costs. If we open the wall and find an issue, we show you the problem, explain the fix, and provide a price before we proceed. We offer free estimates, so call (386) 516-5343 to have us come out and take a look at your specific windows. Remember, we offer a permanent 5% discount for seniors and veterans.
FAQs - Full Frame Replacement
How do I know if I need a full frame replacement or an insert?
You need a full frame replacement if the wood or metal frame currently holding your window is rotted, structurally unsound, or if you want to change the size or operation of the window. An insert replacement is only appropriate when the existing frame is in excellent condition and you are simply swapping the glass unit. If you need our Window Replacement services, we can help you choose the right approach. If you are unsure, call (386) 516-5343 and we will inspect the condition of your frames.
How long does a full frame replacement take?
Most full frame replacements in Miami Gardens can be completed in a single day, depending on the number of windows and the condition of the rough openings. We prioritize efficiency without rushing the details, ensuring that your home is sealed and secure before we leave for the day. If we are doing a large-scale project for your entire home, we will provide a clear timeline during our initial estimate.
Does a full frame replacement require a permit in Miami Gardens?
Yes, replacing the entire window frame typically requires a permit as it involves structural changes to the opening. We handle the documentation and permit process for you, ensuring that all work meets local Miami Gardens building codes for hurricane safety and energy efficiency. For older properties, we also offer Historic Window Restoration that preserves architectural character while meeting modern standards. We do not cut corners on safety, and all our installations comply with the strict standards required for coastal Florida homes.
Is it cheaper to repair the frame or do a full frame replacement?
It is often cheaper to perform a minor repair on a frame if the damage is superficial, but if the wood is rotted through, a full frame replacement is actually the more cost-effective choice in the long run. Trying to patch a rotting frame is a temporary solution that will eventually fail, leading to more expensive damage to your walls and flooring. We provide honest advice on whether a repair will hold or if a full replacement is necessary to protect your investment. Call us at (386) 516-5343 for an honest assessment.
When you choose TruePane Windows & Doors, you are choosing a company built on a 42-year tradition of craft. We do not use subcontractors, we do not use high-pressure sales tactics, and we do not leave until the job is done right. Whether you are dealing with a single leaking window or looking to update your entire home’s exterior, we are here to provide a professional, reliable solution. You can reach us at (386) 516-5343 any time, day or night, to speak with a real person about your home window needs.
Written by Dale Kessler, Owner at TruePane Windows & Doors, serving Miami Gardens.
Six Reasons Homeowners Choose TruePane Windows & Doors
Impact systems engineered to design pressures up to +/-100, matched to your wind zone - your openings hold when the storm arrives.
Low-E insulated impact glass from our manufacturer lines commonly cuts monthly cooling bills 20-30%.
Laminated impact glass shuts out up to 40% of outside noise - traffic, neighbors, weather.
Monitoring services run $30-90 a month. Laminated impact glass resists forced entry around the clock, with no subscription.
Florida homeowners average around 25% savings on the windstorm portion of their policy after protecting every opening - some homes qualify for more.
A full impact package upgrades curb appeal, buyer confidence and appraised value in one project.