7 common window installation mistakes

Windows not only protect the inhabitants from external elements but also provide a beautiful view of the outdoors. It is essential to maintain the windows well to ensure their longevity and effective insulation, which makes the house energy-efficient. However, to maintain this level of protection and efficiency, it is essential to be aware of certain factors. Additionally, when installing new windows or replacing damaged ones, it is important to avoid common mistakes.

Taking wrong measurements
Taking incorrect window opening measurements is a common mistake people make during installation. This can give rise to a host of problems as the installation process progresses. To ensure the window is a proper fit, it is important to take accurate measurements. An incorrectly measured rough opening could lead to an ill-fitting window frame that allows leaks and drafts, compromising the insulation and efficiency of the property. To avoid this problem, homeowners can either stick to standard-size windows to eliminate errors or hire a professional. Following these steps can help avoid being stuck with an inefficient window that needs to be replaced.

Poorly attached barriers
Another common mistake homeowners usually make when installing windows is not checking if the weather-resistant barriers are properly attached. A loosely attached barrier can cause energy leakage and compromised sealing for the property. The main purpose of these barriers is to provide prevention against air and moisture infiltration and create a tight seal. When the barrier is not installed correctly, it can give rise to leaks and gaps, resulting in energy loss. It can allow hot air to enter the house during hotter months and cause a loss of heating during the colder months. Moreover, the weather-resistant barriers and flashing must be installed appropriately to avoid paying high utility bills.

Not checking placement
The placement of the window during the installation process is crucial, as a simple mistake can lead to various problems that might arise later. Angled installations and out-of-place windows are just a few of the concerns that could lead to compromised insulation, uneven gaps, difficulty in operation, and structural issues. Therefore, to avoid these problems, it is important to take precautions to ensure that the windows remain level, centered, and at the proper angle throughout the process. Careful monitoring should be done at every step of the installation process. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure the window is tightly secured and firmly attached to eliminate the risk of free movement.

Using spray foam
Incorrect usage of spray foam is a common mistake one can make when installing windows. Spray foam takes time and space because it expands and occupies more surrounding space. When used during window installation, expanding spray foams can result in distortion of window frame shapes or cause wood jambs to bend. As a result, the distortion can impact the functionality of the window and the insulation it provides to the property. Additionally, the use of spray foam can trap excess moisture, causing buildup. As the foam expands, the chances of mold buildup, rotting, and water damage increase. Instead of spray foam, non-expanding sealants should be used when installing windows and window frames. These sealants will not impact the shape and functionality of the windows.

Choosing wrong jambs
Another common problem with window installation is having to deal with wrong-sized jambs. Jambs play an important role in the fit and support of windows in the rough opening. One needs to consider the size and width of the jambs before ordering them for installation. The width of the jamb can vary depending on the material used to make the interior of the house. For instance, a house with drywalls will have jambs of different widths than windows that need to be installed on a thicker sheathing. It is advisable to consult a professional and learn about the correct installation process and the manufacturer’s guidelines rather than relying solely on instincts.

Forgetting about the back slope
Forgetting to install a back slope when installing windows on the property can lead to increased drainage issues and a higher level of water penetration. A back slope is essential to the building structure as it ensures that the water penetrating the building walls is properly redirected outside instead of making its way into the property. Without a back slope, the water can accumulate near the window and cause mold growth, increased moisture, and structural problems. Creating a back slope can effectively drain water from the interiors and safeguard the building structure while ensuring the durability and longevity of the windows.

Not following instructions
Another common mistake people make when installing windows is that they overlook the manufacturer’s instructions. This can lead to potential problems and complications. Window manufacturers always provide a set of instructions for the proper installation of their windows. While some may believe that the instructions are the same for all manufacturers, it is still important to read and follow them. Manufacturers invest time in providing users with best practices and specific requirements for correctly handling and installing windows. The instructions are included with the product for a reason. So, instead of rushing through the installation process, it is advisable to familiarize oneself with the instructions and requirements. It also helps to prepare oneself with the right tools in case of any potential issues. A key problem with not following the manufacturer’s instructions is that it can impact the validity of the warranty.

Previous Read

11 common home repair and maintenance mistakes to avoid

Home maintenance is an ongoing task. Falling behind on HVAC systems’ maintenance, appliance maintenance, and even plumbing can require a complete replacement. One of the best ways to maintain a home and its structural integrity is cleaning things and repairing them at the first signs of wear, but aside from neglecting the same, people can make several mistakes when caring for their home. So, here are eleven common home repair and maintenance mistakes to avoid. Not winterizing Many homeowners forget about winterizing, a crucial step in maintaining their property. Winterizing is taking preventative measures to protect the property against damage that freezing temperatures can cause. Tasks like insulating pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting, clearing gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage, sealing windows and doors to prevent drafts, and servicing heating systems to ensure they function efficiently during the colder months are all part of the winterizing process. Winterizing a home or property helps prevent costly damage and ensures the comfort and safety of occupants during months when the area sees freezing temperatures. Not addressing water damage One of the biggest lapses in maintenance is not addressing water damage immediately. When spaces like bathrooms aren’t kept dry, water damage and mold can affect them and further penetrate the structure, resulting in costly repairs or even complete replacements. One of the main indications of water seeping into the structure is stains and watermarks on the ceiling or walls. This is usually a sign of either a pipe leak in the house, problems with the roof, or old caulking that’s allowing water to seep into places from high-moisture areas. Getting a professional plumber to find the root cause should be the immediate plan of action. Not changing AC/furnace filters Clean air filters in good condition can help one save money on electricity bills. This is because the system to heat or cool the house won’t have to work as hard, resulting in lower energy bills. The filters should be cleaned every couple of months and replaced at least twice a year to keep the HVAC system running efficiently. Overusing power washing Maintenance doesn’t only include repairs or replacing. Cleaning regularly is also a huge part of maintenance, and while power washing can get grime and mud cleaned out in no time, using it carelessly could damage the masonry. High water pressure can damage bricks and aluminum siding and even cause the stucco to crumble. It’s important not to get too close to the surface one is trying to clean and to keep the nozzle at least 6 inches away. Not cleaning the gutters regularly Clogged gutters tend to leak water into the home’s foundation, and this could slowly weaken it over time. Going into the next season with clogged gutters is a complete no-no. Not cleaning gutters regularly allows twigs, leaves and debris to collect and block water from flowing freely and is a home maintenance mistake that must be avoided. Neglecting windows Windows should be maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure that they function properly. If one struggles to open the windows, notices rot on the corners, or can feel a cold draft when passing it, it may be time to repair. All the clean filters in the HVAC system cannot reduce the energy bill if the windows can’t prevent cold air from entering the house. Improper yard work Letting trees grow unpruned and unchecked can be a safety hazard. Storms and inclement weather can cause branches to snap off and damage the house. Maintaining tree and shrub height and checking for poisonous or parasitic wild plants is absolutely necessary for proper home maintenance. Using the wrong tools While DIYs to repair and carry out routine maintenance work around the house sounds like a money-saving decision, it could end up costing much more. Using the wrong tools can end up damaging what needs to be fixed. Not taking care and using safety measures when carrying out repairs with power tool is also a common home repair and maintenance mistake one should avoid. Not deep cleaning Keeping a regular schedule to clean out appliances, fans, bathrooms, the loft, the basement, and high-traffic areas in the house is necessary to ensure that issues don’t fall through the cracks (pun intended). Having a seasonal maintenance checklist can help immensely in ensuring that every part of the house gets a regular onceover. Not using appropriate cleaning products There’s no one-size-fits-all in cleaning products, so one should not use the same products for all cleaning needs. The stuff that gets the grime off the fan may not be the best one to clean the oven with! Using incorrect cleaning agents and scrubbers or making use of excessive cleaning products can damage the appliances or the paint and luster of the objects being cleaned. So, selecting the correct cleaning agents for different surfaces is imperative. Overusing duct tape For a quick fix, duct tape works wonders, but that cannot be one’s go-to solution all the time. It’s not a permanent solution and, as such, should not be treated as one. Temporary repairing items with duct tape is acceptable so long as the next step is a call to a professional to inspect the issue. Leaving duct tape on for too long can result in a sticky residue marking the surface, the issue worsening, and the need for a complete replacement of the product or area.

Next Read

Mistakes to avoid when hiring water damage restoration professionals

Excess water seepage and flooding can cause a lot of damage to the house. The structure can be compromised if not treated immediately and properly, resulting in an expensive home improvement project that the homeowner must undertake. It is crucial to take immediate steps to treat this problem, with the first step being hiring the right water damage restoration professional. Some mistakes, which are mentioned below, should be avoided during this hiring process. 1. Going the DIY route In some cases, when the damage doesn’t seem too bad, many homeowners take it upon themselves to clean up and restore the place. This might be a bad idea, as water damage often causes mold issues that must be handled professionally. Professionals are well equipped with the knowledge and tools to help eliminate this problem and ensure the home does not succumb to other damages. They can anticipate problems and, accordingly, take the required measures. Even if they reach a roadblock, they will figure out how to remedy the issue. A homeowner may have limited knowledge and be unable to handle such a big responsibility outside of their expertise. Allow the professional to take the lead and trust them with the process. 2. Not researching One should not rush to hire the first recommendation that comes to them. This big task requires the right professionals to carry it out properly. Always check with the company about their insurance and licensing policies to know that they have all the necessary documents and permits to do the work they are doing. This means that they are liable to do the job correctly and have put in place the resources to hire professionals for the company. They must have the latest techniques to help them with the issue in the best manner possible. 3. Delaying emergency response As a homeowner, the biggest mistake is waiting too long to respond to the situation. Water damage can lead to higher chances of mold growth and also cause structural damage to the house if not taken out quickly. Homeowners should respond swiftly; this way, damage will be minimal and manageable. Not to mention, it is also economical, as there will be no compounded damages. 4. Not taking safety precautions Safety precautions are an essential part of the job, so make sure they are following these protocols to a T. This includes making sure they use machines carefully and wear boots, gloves, masks, and overalls to protect themselves from any of the products that are being used during the water damage restoration process. Homeowners should also be extra careful around the wiring and electrical appliances. There may be some exposure to hazardous material depending on the damage and the extent of the restoration. Make sure everyone is safely dressed and following all the necessary precautions. 5. Not discussing the damage Before they are hired, have a detailed conversation about the extent of damage that has been done to the house due to the flooding. Homeowners should plan a way forward and understand how the restoration works so they can be on board. Does this mean they will have to vacate the property? Do they know how long it will take? Have they discussed the budget? These are among the many things homeowners should discuss with their contractors. Homeowners should also ask contractors to update them with a plan and ask for the budget. This will help one decide if this is the right company for them. 6. Prioritizing price over quality Restorations are expensive. So, one may have to shell out more money than they thought. Knowing that the price will not be the only deciding factor in hiring a professional is vital. One must look at the professionals' work history, experience, and qualifications, which will help get the results. Homeowners should prioritize quality service and understand that this is a long-term commitment. Hiring incompetent workers for one's home might be cheap and easy on the pocket at that time, but a badly restored home will suffer long-term damage in the coming years, and homeowners may end up paying a lot more than they first budgeted. 7. Ask about equipment Using the wrong equipment can lead to more damage than good, so always check with the company to see if they have the right tools for the job. If it is a licensed company, it will have all the necessary resources for the project, so one will not have to follow up or worry. Since water damage can create an environment for mold and mildew to grow, ask them to inspect the walls thoroughly to ensure everything is dry before starting the restoration process. A professional moisture assessment can help understand the extent of moisture found in the home, and based on these readings, work can be managed by the professionals. Another tip for homeowners is to document the damage thoroughly to show it to the professionals. This will give them an idea of what to expect. They will, of course, come to the site, do an assessment, and start work accordingly, but have these damages recorded on the phone because one will need them to support one's insurance claim. These reference pictures and videos become important for one's case.