Most Phoenix window replacements can be done as a retrofit, which fits the new window into the existing frame opening without cutting the stucco. A cutback, also called a full-frame replacement, cuts the stucco back and takes the whole old window out; people choose it for the look, or because there is damage or misalignment. A cutback costs about $425 more per window. We do both, and we confirm every size and the condition of every frame on site before we build.
The two methods
| Retrofit (insert) | Cutback (full-frame) | |
|---|---|---|
| What comes out | The old sashes and glass | The whole window, frame included |
| Stucco and interior trim | Left in place | Cut back and patched |
| When it fits | The old frame is square, dry, and solid | You want the look, the frame is damaged or out of square, or you want a different size opening |
| Time at your home | 1 to 2 days | 2 days |
| Cost | Base price | About $425 more per window |
Why retrofit suits so many Phoenix homes
Phoenix homes are mostly stucco over wood framing. More than half of Phoenix's 653,065 housing units (58.8%) were built before 1990 (U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020 to 2024), and many still have their original aluminum frames set into the stucco. When those frames are sound, a retrofit replaces the window without cutting and re-texturing the stucco, which saves time and money.
When a cutback is the right call
- The look. Some homeowners simply prefer how a cutback looks.
- Damage. Soft wood, stains below the sill, or leaks during monsoon rains mean the problem is in the wall, not just the window.
- Misalignment. If the opening has shifted, a new window will not seal properly inside the old frame.
- A different size or style. Turning a window into a patio door, or enlarging an opening, means taking the frame out.
Why many installers only do retrofits
Many, many installers in this area do retrofits only and hire subcontractors. A cutback is build work, and they are not set up for it. Our own crews do every job, including cutbacks.
Watch out for a "cutout" sold as a cutback
Some installers sell a cutout as a cutback. They saw out the frame, the flange, and the vapor barrier, then set a flush window. It looks like a cutback, and it is quick and cheap to do, but it often leaks because the vapor barrier has been cut.
We do not do this.
What doesn't change: the glass and the ratings
Either way, the window that goes in carries the same certified ratings. With our LoE³-340+ glass, every Energy Shield window has an NFRC-certified whole-window SHGC of 0.14 to 0.16, under the Phoenix-area code limit of 0.25. See every product on our solar heat gain page, and what dual-pane low-E glass does at 115°F.
Cost
Our replacement windows run $635 to $890 per window, installed, and a cutback adds about $425 per window. Every install carries our lifetime warranty on product and installation, transferable to the second owner. Full price ranges are on our pricing page, and what typical jobs cost by city is in our price index.
Find out which your home needs
Book a free estimate, send photos and sizes for a virtual quote, or call (623) 231-2451.
Questions
What is a retrofit window? A retrofit (insert) window fits into the existing frame opening. The old sashes and glass come out, the frame stays, and the stucco and trim are left in place.
What is a cutback install? A cutback, or full-frame replacement, cuts the stucco back and takes the whole old window out, frame included. It costs about $425 more per window and takes 2 days at the house.
What is a cutout, and is it the same as a cutback? No. A cutout saws out the frame, flange, and vapor barrier, then sets a flush window. It looks like a cutback, but it often leaks because the vapor barrier has been cut. Energy Shield does not do cutouts.
Is retrofit or cutback better? Neither is better in every case. Retrofit is faster and costs less when the old frame is solid. A cutback fits when you want the look, when the frame is damaged or out of square, or when the opening changes size.
Does a retrofit window perform as well as a cutback? The window itself carries the same certified ratings either way. With LoE³-340+ glass, Energy Shield windows have a whole-window SHGC of 0.14 to 0.16.
Written by Juan Valles, co-owner, Energy Shield Window & Door Company. Updated November 6, 2026.
