HDTV is a popular TV channel featuring
remodeling wonders. The shows begin with a demolition phase, which is
instructive. It’s not uncommon to uncover unwelcome discoveries behind the
walls, while the poor homeowners look on hopelessly.
At Woodland, we hear stories and witness similar problems all the time when we
install replacement windows. It’s a crying shame to see how badly windows can
be installed whether new construction or previously remodeled. At Woodland we have a holistic approach to
window installation, which is why we prefer to install the windows we sell and
why we don’t install windows we don’t sell.
When
purchasing replacement windows or new windows, remember that it’s as important
to spend as much time understanding window installation as it is researching
different window brands and styles. Even the best-made window can’t make up
for a bad installation. What’s most unfortunate is the likelihood that a bad
installation can damage far more than your new window if water is allowed to
seep into the walls.
If you’re planning to purchase windows, educate yourself about some key installation facts first. Be aware of the common practices deployed by inexperienced
or lazy window installers throughout the industry. Learn the facts and trust
yourself to spot the gaps. When you’re ready to sign an installation contract
make sure it spells out in detail the work that will be done and the materials
that will be used. And above all know the skill level of the installer(s), visit
the company showroom, ask for the contractor’s license and proof of insurance, get
references and personally examine one of the jobs they’ve installed.
Here are some important facts and the
common practices to look out for as you select an installer and during the
installation process.
Fact:
Windows come with manufacturer installation
instructions.
Common practice:
These instructions are lost, not on the
job site, or the installer assumes he knows what he doesn’t know, unless he’s
installed that exact window previously.
Fact:
Window installation and replacing existing
windows is a skill built by learning professional techniques, apprenticeship,
and experience.
Common practice:
A framer from construction team, a
subcontractor or a handyman does the installation.
Fact:
Windows need to be measured and ordered to
precise specifications and according to building standards. Building knowledge
means understanding how a window fits and calculating precise allowances for
wall depth and the window profile. New energy efficient windows are generally thicker
than your old windows they are replacing and the extra thickness must be
anticipated and framed properly.
Common practice:
Someone orders the windows and someone else
makes it fit. An inexperienced installer typically installs the window with the
extra thickness stuck out past the exterior wall and past the 1x4 facings. The
same thing happens if a window is ordered wrong for the opening. Any attempt to
cover the protruding or receding edge of the window is highly likely to either
leave a gap or create a shelf. The installer caulks the window, but when the caulk
breaks down water is trapped and creates a leak.
Fact:
The manufacturer made and shipped window parts
needed for a proper fit and installation.
Common practice:
Johnny, the installer, grabs whatever he
needs from the truck, old latex caulk, insulating foam or trim. He finishes the
installation and throws out the unused drip cap, exterior flash or other parts
that the manufacturer shipped in the box with the windows.
Fact:
Materials have become highly specialized
and performance depends on using the correctly specified materials. Have you
ever applied a sealant that never hardened?
Common practice:
Lacking the knowledge about building physics
such as water penetration, it’s common for installers to leave an open space
between the replacement window and the building water resistant barrier, such
as Tyvek. The membrane must be sealed to the window on all sides or the barrier
is violated and air or water will enter the home. Finish carpenters learn how
to cover gaps or create symmetrical openings using trim to shore up rough
carpentry. This doesn’t work with windows because the window installation is
the barrier between outside elements and the interior of your home. A poorly
placed trim piece to cover a gap doesn’t stop air or water infiltration and
could actually become a basin for water to become trapped.
We’re all busy and we want the people we
hire to do the job right. Unfortunately, we can’t assume it will be done right.
Fundamental errors in window and door installation can result in water leaks,
air infiltration, poor operation, and structural problems. The best we can do
is be clear about the job we want done, hire a professional company and don’t
be afraid to look for the signs it’s being done right.
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