Window replacement is an important home improvement project that can bring a number of advantages to your home. And as one would expect, a home improvement project as valuable as this typically requires quite an investment. This makes it all the more important to make sure that everything goes well, from planning to installation.
In this post, I will guide you toward identifying if your new windows have been properly installed.
Importance of Quality Window Installation
But, first things first: why should one strive for quality window installation?
You see, even if you get the best windows available on the market, they still need to be properly installed to let you maximize their specialized features and to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency. For instance, if a window is touted as energy-efficient, if there are gaps between the window and the window frame, heat and air can still go in and out of those gaps, deeming your energy efficiency features useless.
Additionally, windows must be installed according to manufacturer’s requirements, otherwise, you risk voiding the warranties that come along with the windows you’ve purchased. This is because every manufacturer that offers extensive warranties with their products require that the products be properly installed by their certified installers. This ensures that any problem found on a window is due to a product defect, and not because of incorrect installation.
Furthermore, window installation processes may vary depending on a number of factors: the type of window, construction of the house, exterior cladding, and the type of weather-restrictive barrier, if any. Because of this, proper and adequate caution should be done to ensure that all the said factors have been considered prior to and during installation.
If crucial installation processes are not properly followed, the performance and longevity of the window may be compromised–your investment could just go to waste because of this.
The Best Way to Ensure Proper Window Installation
So, what’s the best way to ensure proper window installation, you ask? I will give you a straightforward answer: hire the right window company!
A reliable, trained, and experienced window company has years of experience in the industry and has gone through manufacturer training and certifications, giving you the peace of mind that they know what they’re doing. If you perform DIY (do-it-yourself) window replacement or hire the uncertified local handyman, you can’t assure the quality of installation. Moreover, manufacturers typically only cover their products with warranties given that they have been installed by certified window contractors.
To make sure that you’re hiring the right window contractor, follow these tips:
- Ask for licenses, permits, and certifications.
- Hire a local company with an actual office.
- Ask for work references.
- Request for a copy of insurance.
- Verify credentials and certifications.
- Require a detailed, written estimate.
- Read customer reviews online.
Checking Installation Quality: Things to Observe and Ask
When you hire a reliable window company for window replacement, you are taking a step towards secure window installation. However, it still pays to know how to check for installation quality, so you can bring up any issues you might find as early as possible, and allow the window company to resolve problems immediately. Here are the things to check for:
- Did the window contractor perform an in-home consultation? A reliable window company should conduct an in-home check and consultation so they can assess your needs and show and discuss recommendations.
- Did they measure the old window and the opening before ordering new replacement windows? The best replacement windows are those that are custom-manufactured. And for these custom windows to fit perfectly, the window company must get accurate window measurements.
- Did they completely remove old windows and components and check wall structure? The window opening must be cleared off and clean before the new windows are installed.
- Did they apply weatherproofing insulation and sealant on gaps around the window? After installing the replacement window, the contractor should apply adequate weatherproofing and insulation sealant to make the window hold up strong against changes in the weather and temperature fluctuations.
- Did they allow you to check the window after installation? Any reliable contractor who is confident about their work will allow their customers to check the newly installed windows before they pack up and leave.
If you can answer “yes” to all of these questions, then there’s no doubt about it–your windows have been installed properly!
Getting old and damaged windows replaced is an invaluable treat that you can give your home. As long as you hire the right window company and know the things to check to ensure the quality of installation, you will be able to make the most out of your investment.
About the Author
Alex Esler is the marketing manager for Renewal by Andersen of San Francisco. She is an integrated marketing professional with a digital focus, driven and inspired by her work to help homeowners find the window replacement solutions they are looking for. For updates from Alex, check out the company blog!
This article is informative and helpful, especially for a first timer like me. Thanks for sharing 🙂