Installing Windows On Your Home

Those that are really looking to take on this project themselves should first get a detailed set of instructions from the window manufacturers. This set of instructions is strictly to get an idea of the process.

United Home Experts is not responsible for any accidents, warranty voids or mishandling. We highly recommend allowing professionals, like ourselves, to replacing your windows. We offer the best warranties and coverage, aside from manufacturers, for replacement windows that are available to homeowners in the New England area. You will notice that even this set of instructions is extensive and is not recommended to homeowners to install on their own.

Installing windows or replacing them is not as easy as it seems.  This is compounded by the fact that windows manufacturers only insure the window itself.  They will replace it if it is proven that the damage stems from a factory defect.  If the problem is caused by faulty installation, the manufacturer’s warranty no longer covers it.  Here is how a typical window is installed and the difficulties one may encounter in the process.

Step 1

The first step is to measure the area the window will occupy. This includes the width (top, middle, and bottom) and the height (middle and both sides) of the opening.  A difference of greater than three inches will necessitate placing filler strips to level the sides out. If a mistake is committed in the measurement and the outer edge of the window is more than half an inch shorter than the space it is to occupy, a new window may need to be ordered.

Step 2

Water is the bane of any window.  It tends to exfiltrate through it and into the house, the window material, or the wall that the window is attached to. This will cause a variety of problems depending on the material surrounding the leak. For instance, wood will tend to rot due to the increased moisture. Attaching strips of waterproof self-adhering membrane along possible exfiltration points on the edges will prevent this.

In cases where flashing is needed, proper layering of the material is important.  This will direct water outside when it runs down the wall during the rainy season. The seams should also be kept face down so water does not seep into it.

Step 3

When placing the window into the space provided for it, place its sill on the bottom of the opening. The frame is then tipped carefully until the fins where nails should be placed are firmly against the wall. An assistant may be necessary. His or her job is to note whether the space on each side of the window is equal prior to nailing.  The window is then leveled.

Afterwards, the window is measured again to ensure that it is a square.  This is done by measuring the frame diagonally. Doing this is not really simple. It needs an experienced eye so that the window is not nailed to the wall in a skewed position.

Step 4

The window’s perimeter is then carefully sealed. There may be finishing which goes with the window and which needs to be snapped in. If none is supplied, a metal flashing is put in which overhangs the window. The window is then caulked so it becomes watertight, or even airtight. It is then insulated against drafts. The process depends on the insulation to be used. Mistakes in this part will cause the jamb to bow. This happens when foam is applied too fast when sealing narrow gaps.

Overall

Installing windows is a tedious process. The professionals at United Home Experts have the necessary experience and the meticulous eye in order to do the job correctly and efficiently. Their workmanship is proven by the many satisfied customers they have in the New England area.