Common Window Installation Mistakes to Avoid

There are various reasons to consider window installation in Milwaukee, from dealing with the local climate and temperature extremes to improving your home’s energy efficiency, reducing unwanted noise, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of your home.

Whatever the reason, when you install new windows, there are some things that you need to know ahead of time.

As tempting as it is to do it yourself, some common window installation practices need to be corrected, and this typically happens when you try to DIY.

To help you understand these issues, Empire Home Remodeling created this guide that outlines the most common issues and pitfalls to avoid so that you can avoid potentially costly mistakes.

• Improperly Measured Rough Opening
• Wrong Sized Jambs
• Neglecting Flashing Installation
• Poor Insulation
• No Back Slope
• Failing To Inspect Nailing Fins Repeatedly
• Incorrect Usage Of Shims
• Forgetting To Test Window Function
• Selecting The Wrong Window Type
• Not Following Instructions

Improperly Measured Rough Opening

One of the more common mistakes in window installation is improperly measuring rough openings. The rough opening is the space needed to include insulation, flashing, and other elements that help secure the window.

There can be a variety of reasons for this, but one of the more common reasons is that the exact size of the rough opening varies between manufacturers and the style of the window.

When a rough opening is too large or too small, it can create issues during installation like difficulty fitting the window or causing a weak seal that can compromise a window’s performance.

To avoid this, carefully follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for framing your window against the rough opening. Another tip when selecting your windows is to be sure that you choose standard sizes rather than custom-built ones that may cost more.

Wrong Sized Jambs

Another common error in window installation is choosing the wrong size for the jambs. When you order windows with the jambs attached, the width must consider the interior finish.

The surface finish will be of plaster, tongue groove, or other material that is more than ½-inch standard drywall; you’ll need to take into consideration the jamb’s width.

In addition, with windows installed onto sheathing thicker than 7/16 of an inch, the jamb width will need to be adjusted; otherwise, the window can sit incorrectly, creating gaps and leaks.

This takes accurate measuring and planning for the right materials to be used.

Neglecting Flashing Installation

Flashing is a crucial component in preventing water from infiltrating into your home through and around your windows. When flashing isn’t installed correctly, it can compromise flashing tape or membranes.

Proper window care can prevent the flashing from compromising. Still, dust, debris, and moisture can generally interfere with the flashing’s ability to adhere to the window frame correctly.

To correct this mistake, brush away dirt, dust, and debris and make sure that the area is dry. Another factor is that some flashing tape and membranes don’t adhere well in cold weather, so check the manufacturer’s guidelines first.

Other cold-weather options may require a primer to increase adherence and create a stronger seal.

Poor Insulation

One essential component of any window installation is the use of proper insulation. Poorly applied insulation can create gaps that lead to drafts, energy loss, and transfer, which in turn cause increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.

To avoid this, ensure there are no gaps around the window frame and use materials like spray foam or fiberglass insulation to provide high-quality insulation.

No Back Slope

A back slope prevents water from pooling around the window. However, too often, installers overlook the back slope, leaving the window sill flat, which can lead to water infiltrating the wall structure and creating damage over time.

When water isn’t effectively directed away from a window opening, it can seep, causing mold, rot, and even severe structural damage to the building.

To avoid this problem, cut the cripple studs at an angle or use a sloped pan or sill wedge. Keep in mind that when you use a sill-wedge, your rough opening needs to be adjusted accordingly.

Failing To Inspect Nailing Fins Repeatedly

Nailing fins are used to secure a window to the wall. When they aren’t used correctly, they can cause the window to be misaligned and shift.

A very common mistake is driving screws and nails at an angle, pushing the window out of position, making the window difficult to open and close, or even creating cracks that lead to drafts.

To avoid this mistake, you should continuously inspect the position of the window during your window installation. When installing a nailing fin, ensure the window is square, level, and centered.

Incorrect Usage Of Shims

A shim is used to ensure that windows are level and stable during the installation process. When a shim is placed incorrectly, it can cause the window to be misaligned or not function properly.

To avoid this mistake, place the shims at the sides and bottom of the window frame during the window installation process to create a level installation and align them regularly.

Forgetting To Test Window Function

Often, during window installation, especially during DIY projects, people forget to check whether the window operates as it should. If it doesn’t operate correctly, it could lead to costly refitting and adjustments.

Before you finish an installation, it is a good practice to open and close the window multiple times to ensure that it operates properly.

You should test the window’s operations and check that any latches are in alignment and locks are in line and work correctly.

Selecting The Wrong Window Type

A surprisingly common issue before any window installation is that people purchase the wrong type of window for their location or climate, which can lead to performance issues. Different types of windows are designed to address different types of weather.

In order to avoid making this mistake, consider your home’s specifications including exposure to weather events, overall aesthetic and architectural design, and your energy efficiency.

If you’re unsure which type of window to consider, consult with an expert like Empire Home Remodeling, who specializes in finding the perfect window solution for your home.

Not Following Manufacturer Instructions

Finally, the most avoidable mistake in window installation is not following the manufacturer’s suggestions and instructions.

Windows comes with specific guidelines from the manufacturer about best practices for installing their windows based on extensive testing.

While most windows follow similar guidelines, there can be subtle differences between manufacturers, so failing to follow these instructions can cause performance issues when operating the window.

When these instructions are ignored, they can lead to issues with the integrity of the window installation, poor performance, costly repairs, and even a negation of warranties.

In Conclusion

When you consider window installation, it may seem like a project that you could do yourself, but there’s zero room for error.

There are a ton of variables to consider, from choosing the right type of window to ensuring the rough opening is correct to proper flashing and sealing.

From water damage to lowered energy efficiency and a reduced lifespan, it’s clear that your window installation is best left to the professionals.

When you’re ready to start looking for a reputable window installation expert in Milwaukee, you want one that provides you with:

• Local experts
• Excels at customer service
• Well-respected in the community
• Provides a wide selection of window options
• Offers in-person consultations
• Easy installation process

Empire Home Remodeling is the local go-to expert that can provide you with all your window installation needs.

As local experts, our technicians are more than familiar with the local weather and the demands it places on homes in the area.

During your consultation, we’ll explain every step of the installation process, help you select the right type of window for your home, and educate you about it.

Taking shortcuts with your window installation isn’t worth the small savings you receive if it becomes a costly mistake over the long haul.

At Empire Home Remodeling, we make our process simple for you, which includes:

• Request your quote and in-home consultation
• We’ll take measurements and discuss design options with you
• Select your window and schedule your installation date
• We’ll go above and beyond, including any necessary follow-ups

At Empire Home Remodeling, we provide financing options to help make your window installation affordable with our $0 down, 0% interest for 12 months.

Avoid costly, common mistakes with your window installation. Call Empire Home Remodeling today for a FREE consultation and quote!