3 Reasons You Should Not Get Pocket Windows For Your Home
Pocket windows (or insert windows) are becoming very popular among homeowners who want to upgrade their home.
However, there are several reasons why you shouldn’t even consider this option.
In a nutshell, pocket windows will fail 90% of the time.
But if you want to really understand why, keep reading.
What are Pocket windows?
Pocket windows are windows that fit directly into the existing framing or opening, without you having to alter the structure.
There are multiple brands that manufacture pocket windows, like Marvin, Pella, ProVia, and more.
They can be a solid option for homes with stucco or brick walls…
But for homes with cedar or vinyl siding, pocket windows are rarely a good choice.
Why Are Pocket Windows a No-Go?
#1. They Rely Solely On Caulk And Insulation
Insert windows are very dependable on stellar caulking and sealants, which is something we’ve rarely seen in our 20+ years of experience.
Installers will often cut corners and use subpar (or not enough) sealant to fully waterproof the window.
And since the sealant is the first and last barrier against water infiltration, this causes most pocket windows to fail.
The only way a pocket window can perform as good as a full-replacement window is if your installer used enough high-quality sealant, which is often too expensive for a window retrofitting project.
#2. They're Useless if the framing is rotten
As I mentioned, pocket windows mean you don’t have to touch the existing framing.
But if the existing framing is rotten and there’s carpenter bees and ants in it, installing a pocket window is not going to solve those problems.
In the end, you’ll still get water infiltration, mold, rot, and pests damage inside of your home.
If you know for a fact that the existing structure is solid, then a pocket window can be a good option.
#3. Pocket Windows Don't Fit Any Opening
Say you have a more peculiar opening and not a standard, builder-grade window frame.
Pocket windows only come in some standard sizes, and if they don’t match your opening with at least some margin or error, you’re left with huge gaps that need to be filled somehow.
In that case, you’re left with two options.
You either have to use a TON of caulk and foam and seal everything tight, which is just unprofessional…
Or you’re forced to do a full-frame window replacement.
When can You Do Pocket Window Replacement?
Pocket windows are still feasible in certain scenarios.
You can use them if…
- You know for certain that your existing frame is solid
- You have stucco on your exterior walls
- Your exterior walls are brick
In fact, pocket or insert windows are recommended for stucco or brick walls because doing a full-frame replacement in that case would mean demoing your walls and potentially breaking the waterproof barrier.
Besides, if the walls are brick or stucco, it’s unlikely water has infiltrated to the framing.
What's the Alternative To Pocket Windows?
A full-frame window replacement is your best option.
It means you’ll also remove any pests (carpenter bees and ants), remove rot and mold, and install your new window on a solid frame.
As a result, you’ll have a much higher R value and you can be certain that your new windows will last for decades.
Even if full-frame replacements are more expensive, they’re a much smarter investment in the long run.
Cost Of Pocket Windows Vs Full Replacements
The cost to install a pocket windows is between $500 to $1,000 lower than a full replacement.
While this can add up when you’re replacing 10+ windows…
It’s worth understanding the cost for future water damage repairs and other expenses caused by poor installation.
It would be a wise investment to spend $500 more per window, but at least you’ll know you did it right and you won’t have to worry about it for over 50 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are pocket windows?
Pocket windows are windows that you can install in your existing frame, without altering or remodeling it. They’re faster to install, cheaper, but they also have several drawbacks that can lead to you having to redo the windows sooner than anticipated.
Are pocket windows and insert windows the same?
Yes, both names refer to the same type of product or installation.
When should I get pocket windows?
Only buy pocket windows if your home has brick or stucco walls, or if the existing framing is still in pristine condition. Otherwise, you’re better off doing full-frame replacement windows.
Why are pocket windows so much cheaper?
Pocket windows are cheaper because they remove a lot of labor, since you don’t have to replace the framing. If the existing framing is in great condition, pocket windows might perform well, but if the existing framing is damaged and rotten, pocket windows will never be a good solution.
Why do so many handymen do pocket window replacements?
Pocket window replacements jobs have a very high profit margin for handymen because they’re fast to install. Because of the price point, they’re also much easier to sell. These handymen also count on you to call them in a couple of years, after the pocket window they installed failed.
