Broken Window Panes and Expectations: A Primer on Window Installation Issues

Window replacement is a project homeowners can expect to undertake at least once in their lifetime. Over time, shifting house foundations, warping, material shrinkage, or various other issues can affect the way your old windows fit in your home. When your windows are broken or have become too old to function properly, they’ll need to be replaced with a stronger, more efficient ones. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to hire the right contractor for the job, to prevent faulty installations.

Part 1: Window Replacement Gone Wrong – Telltale Signs

However, even when a homeowner takes the proper steps to get the right company to replace and install new windows, something can still go wrong at times. Here are the telltale signs that indicate a window replacement gone wrong.

• There is a gap between the window frame and the movable pane. This means the installation took place without ensuring that the frame is level with the edge of the pane. With this kind of problem, you can expect your heating and cooling costs to soar.
• Another known installation issue is the capping. This happens when the window cladding is done carelessly and becomes misaligned around the window. Encountering this problem indicates sloppy craftsmanship, perhaps involving one or more shortcuts done during the installation.
• Bad trim work is present when the trim is not properly attached to the siding. This usually means the installer has poor installation skills. Unfortunately, this can cause huge problems when the rain starts pouring. The water can go between the siding and the wall and cause major damage.
• Improper flashing installation can cause constant water leaks, even when it is designed to prevent it around window openings.
• It can be worse and be a combination of improper measurement, poorly installed window trim, and bad caulking work resulting to gaps in between the window and the siding.

Remember, you can buy the most expensive, state-of-the-art replacement window out there, but if the installation is poorly done, the window will not be able to perform as it was designed. The goal is to choose the right window installer that can properly install a replacement window, without all the issues mentioned earlier. Know more about the factors behind failed window installations by reading the next chapter of this series.

Part 2: Factors behind Failed Window Installations

Why is it that some installations do not deliver as expected, while others go smoothly and according to plan? As with anything, there are factors that affect the outcome of a window installation, and that is the main focus of this chapter. If you have read the first part of this series on window installations, then you would have encountered the different effects of a faulty window replacement job. Now we move on to discussing why window installation horror stories happen in the first place.

Bad Choice of Window Contractor

When taking on a home improvement project such as a window replacement, it is important that homeowners choose their contractors very carefully.

A windows installer should be able to properly remove old windows and install new ones without any problems, and in accordance with industry regulations. Take time to get to know the reputation and skills of the company that you are considering hiring for the job.

Material Quality and Choice

Even when you have the best window installer in the area working for you, the quality of the installation will not be as satisfactory as you want it to be if you use substandard materials. The materials used should have a manufacturer’s warranty that vouches for quality and durability.

Also, contractors that lack the right skillset to choose the right materials for a particular window replacement project can end up taking shortcuts that affect the outcome of the installation. The result is faulty window that costs more to use than the old window that was replaced.

Lack of Coordination and Communication

One of the pitfalls of a window installation project is miscommunication. Always ensure that you have realistic expectations and and that you communicate them to your contractor, or you’ll end up disappointed over the outcome.

A successful replacement window installation should be able to improve the value, beauty, comfort, and energy efficiency of a home. By knowing what factors affect the outcome of the installation process, you can avoid any potential installation disasters from occurring. Head on to the third and last part of the series and learn helpful tips that you can use to achieve a hassle-free replacement window installation

Part 3: Tips and Recommendations for a Hassle-Free Window Installation Process

Window installation, when left to the experts who know best, can be a breeze. As a homeowner, there are still some things you can do to ensure that the window installation process goes as smoothly as possible.

Get Ready for the Big Day

It is important that you know what you like and don’t like about your current window system. That way, when the contractor asks you for your preferences, you have a ready answer. Think about the window style, trim, and mode of operation.

Know what kinds of issues your old windows have, and ensure that the new replacement window resolves them all — whether it is a cold draft, water leakage, or poor operation.

Be aware of the energy-efficiency rates you would want to achieve. Know the chosen window product that will replace your old window and whether it is a better alternative to the previous one.

Also, prepare the area where the installation will take place. Protect or store away any belongings that might get damaged during the replacement project.

Choose the Right Replacement Window Company

This is the trickiest part because this will mostly determine whether you end up with a successful replacement window project or not. In a nutshell, you should hire a contractor that is skilled in replacement window installations, has the right credentials and licenses, is covered by insurance, has a good reputation, and a clean track record

It also would not hurt if they use state-of-the-art equipment and are professional at all times.

Meet and Communicate with Your Window Replacement Contractor

It is important that you ask all the questions that you have in mind before the project starts. Make sure that you have everything covered, particularly the scope and limitations of the project. Ask how long it will take, how much it will cost, and get a detailed breakdown of the materials to be used.

You can also ask about what to expect after the installation. The bottom line is, question everything. You are bound to be paying a great deal for this project, so you might as well exhaust all your questions and get them answered to your satisfaction first.

For more information on our window and door replacement services, contact Renewal by Andersen online today!