In this article, you will learn:
1. 14 Common Problems Caused by Poor Window Installation
2. How To Choose the Right Type of Window Installation For Your Home
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When it comes to replacing your residential windows, aesthetics and energy-saving capabilities are typically the first priorities that come to mind.
With the ability to decrease energy-consumption, increase property value and save money on overall utility expenses – upgrading your home with brand new windows can provide a number of benefits to the quality and comfort of your home!
However, many Canadian homeowners don’t necessarily consider the window installation process when shopping for their replacement options. As high-quality window replacements can only perform as effectively as they are installed, a professional window installation is the critical piece to ensuring accurate and long-lasting performance for the entire lifespan of the product.
At Simpson Windows and Doors, we pride ourselves on over 25 years of experience in residential window services.
To help you get the most out of your next window replacement project, the following article will identify 14 common problems caused by poor window installation and how to determine which process is right for your home.
14 Common Problems Caused by Poor Window Installation
While opting for a cheap or DIY window installation may save you some money upfront, the risk of any slight error or deviation can often result in a variety of problems in the future.
From structural damage to preventable repair expenses, here are 14 of the most common problems caused by a poor or unprofessional window installation:
1. Operational Problems:
Although many window replacement options offer exceptional ventilation capabilities, an improper installation can cause damage to your window’s frames, hinges and/or hardware – compromising its ability to open and close.
2. Window Damage:
While professional contractors are insured for any product damage that occurs during the window installation process, opting to DIY is a high risk for expensive materials. In some cases, an incorrect window installation can also result in glass cracks as time goes on.
3. Leaks & Water Damage:
When a window is not properly sealed during the installation process, it allows an open gap for water droplets to enter your home during extreme weather conditions. If any water damage is left unresolved, this problem can further spread into smelly water stains, warped window frames and the risk of unhealthy mold.
4. Drafty Windows:
While the chill of an unwanted draft can make your home uncomfortable to relax in, it can also be a clear indication of poor energy efficiency! As a drafty room will make your heating/cooling systems work harder to regulate internal temperatures, your energy bills will also be much higher to compensate.
5. Condensation Between The Glass Panes:
When it comes to modern window efficiency, double- and triple-paned glass windows increase thermal insulation by filling the space between the panes with insulating gas (such as argon or krypton). While some condensation on your windows is perfectly normal, any condensation between the glass panes will indicate that your windows are not functioning as intended.
6. Poor Caulking:
Used as a clay-like sealant, it is important to carefully apply caulking in a clean, precise manner. As messy and/or inconsistent caulking will allow air, pests and the elements to freely enter your home, it will not be able to properly fulfill its purpose.
7. Gaps Between The Window Sill & Frame:
While gaps aren’t always obvious to the human eye, the presence of an unwanted draft, increased energy bills, water damage and pests can sometimes be a clear indication. As these problems can quickly spread into mold and water damage, it is important to work with a reliable contractor who can ensure a perfect fit.
8. Uneven Windows:
Although older homes may experience the stress of shifting windows, a brand new window replacement should fit perfectly into its frame! With careful measurements to install a level window, any slight deviation or error will be difficult (and expensive) to correct.
9. Glass Discolouration:
Another common problem with improper window installations are the presence of glass stains and yellowish discolouration. When water finds a way to leak in through the windows over a long period of time, it will not only compromise the aesthetic of your windows, but lead to water damage as well.
10. Increase in Energy Consumption:
When your windows are not able to perform optimally, it places a huge strain on your heating and cooling systems to help regulate the internal comfort of your home. Without a proper installation process, your energy-efficient window will not be able to perform as promised, costing much more in utility bills in the long run.
11. Voided Warranty:
To ensure the integrity of their products, most window manufacturing companies will offer lifetime warranty options on their energy-efficient window products. However, this warranty only applies when the windows have been installed by a licensed professional to ensure the safety, longevity and reliability of their products.
12. Repair Expenses:
As an improper window installation can result in a number of structural risks, it will be important to repair any damage as quickly as possible. Although it may seem cheaper to install the windows yourself, the risk of any damage may result in expensive repair bills in the future.
13. Decreased Property Value:
While the cost of repairing installation problems may be expensive, the risk of not repairing it is equally as unpleasant. As energy efficiency is a major priority among home buyers, selling a property with damaged and/or inefficient windows can actually decrease your property value after inspection.
14. Choosing The Wrong Installation Option:
Understanding what your property needs can save you a great deal of time and money. While there are two installation options for residential windows (full-frame and retrofit), the major difference will depend on how much of the window needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, choosing the wrong installation type can result in a number of preventable expenses.
Choosing the Right Type of Window Installation For Your Home
When updating your home with new residential windows, you will need to determine exactly how much of the window needs replacing.
While this can rely on a variety of factors, our licensed contractors typically review the following property details:
– Property Age
– Property Condition
– Exterior Materials Used
– Condition of Existing Window Frame
– Overall Budget
– Requested Timeline
In the case where all parts of the window will need to be replaced (including the sash, trim, frame, casings etc), a full-frame window installation would be required.
In the case where the original trim and frame can remain in place, a retrofit window installation would be required.
While the distinction is simple, the difference in process, materials and expenses can vary immensely. With this in mind, we at Simpson Windows and Doors highly recommend that homeowners work with reliable contractors to determine the best long-term solutions for their home.
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If you are interested in learning more about your window replacement options, allow our team at Simpson Windows and Doors to help!
Click here or call us at 905-853-2519 for a complimentary consultation.