5 Home Window Installation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Most people don’t give much thought to their windows until something goes wrong. But catching problems early on can save you time, stress, and money down the road.

If you’ve just had a window replacement done to your home, you must continue to follow a few maintenance tips to keep your windows running smoothly. Beyond that, there are things you can do upfront to ensure that you don’t miss obvious signs of a problem.

Here are the top home window installation mistakes that homeowners make. Be sure to read on to make sure you’re avoiding them all.

1. Wrong Size

One of the most common mistakes made during home window installation is choosing the wrong size window for the space. This can result in gaps around the window frame, and your window will become less energy-efficient and allowing drafts and pests into the home.

To avoid this mistake, always double-check the measurements of the window opening before ordering or installing a window. If possible, have a professional measure the space to ensure an accurate fit. Take note that measuring a window is part of the steps when installing a new window.

2. Weather Resistant Barrier Issues

One of the most common mistakes made during home window installation is not taking into account the weather-resistant barrier. This can lead to serious issues down the line, such as leaks and drafts.

To avoid this mistake, be sure to consult with local window replacement experts about the best weather-resistant barrier for your home. This is especially important if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Taking the time to do this research now will save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

3. Wrong Jambs

The jambs of a window should be level with the outside edges of the window frame. If the jambs are too wide, they will protrude beyond the frame and be visible from the outside. This can be avoided by measuring the width of the window frame before cutting the lumber for the jambs.

4. Poorly Installed Flashing

Window flashing is the thin strips of metal or plastic that are installed around the perimeter of a window to keep water from seeping in behind the trim. When flashing is not installed properly, water can easily get behind the window trim.

This can cause damage to the framing and wall around the window. To avoid this mistake, make sure that the flashing is installed correctly before moving on to the next step in the window installation process.

5. Nailing the Fins Without Checking the Window

This can cause the window to be installed incorrectly, resulting in air and water leaks. To avoid this mistake, be sure to check the window before nailing the fins. Another common mistake is not using weatherstripping.

Weatherstripping is essential in preventing air and water leaks. Be sure to install weatherstripping around the window before installing the trim.

Avoid These Home Window Installation Mistakes

If you’re planning to install new windows in your home, avoid making these common home window installation mistakes. Hire a professional to do the job to ensure it’s done correctly. This will save you time, money, and energy in the long run.

If you would love to read more interesting articles, visit our main blog section.