There are two vital ingredients to high performance and longevity in your new windows: the expertise of their manufacturer, and the craftmanship of the contractor you hire to install them. If you have premium windows engineered by an industry-leading manufacturer, that’s great! But it’s only half of the equation. If they aren’t installed meticulously by an experienced team, you’ll never enjoy the benefits they were designed to deliver.
Read on to uncover common indicators of subpar window installation and issues that can arise as a result. And learn how you can avoid these when you replace your windows next!
Warning Signs of Poor Window Installation
If your recent window installation was not done properly, there are several obvious warning signs. You may notice:
Visible Issues
Gaps in your windows – Gaps are a visible sign your windows were not installed correctly. They occur between your window frame and the windowsill. If you spot gaps, it likely indicates the contractor didn’t take accurate measurements, they chose the wrong size windows, or the frame is too large for the glass.
- Issues that can arise as a result – When you have gaps around your windows, unwanted drafts can make their way into your home, causing discomfort and creating the need to use your heating or air conditioning system to the max—which contributes to inflated utility bills.
Condensation between panes – When you have double- or triple-pane windows installed, argon gas is typically placed between the panes to provide insulation. If your window seal leaks, condensation may show up between your window glass. This likely occurred due to shoddy work on the contractor’s part.
- Issues that can arise as a result – A damaged or leaky seal causes you to lose the insulating gas between your double- or triple-pane windows. It will also impact your view out the window since condensation forms easily after the seal breaks.
Patchy caulking around your windows – Caulk seals your windows and prevents outdoor temperatures from seeping into your home. When windows are installed correctly, you’ll notice a solid line of caulk around them. A patchy caulk job indicates your home isn’t safeguarded from outdoor temperatures.
- Issues that can arise as a result – Patchy caulk allows outdoor air to seep into your home, causing your HVAC unit to work overtime to compensate.
Functional Problems
Windows don’t operate properly – When new windows are installed with attention to detail by an experienced team, they work well! If your windows are not working properly, it could be due to faulty installation. They may be tough to open or close, or they may get stuck shut—and that’s a safety hazard. If you have to use brute force to open or close your windows, they were not installed properly.
- Issues that can arise as a result – If you don’t fix this problem, your windows will eventually leak—which leads to expensive damage.
Long-Term Consequences
Window leaks – Improperly installed windows can leak. At first, the problem may be subtle and hard to notice. You may spot a little dampness or dusting of mold under your window or on its frame. Leaks begin typically after subpar installation when windows aren’t level or their flashing wasn’t fitted correctly.
- Issues that can arise as a result – Moisture infiltration can lead to unhealthy mold and mildew growth in your window unit and the adjacent wall. If left unattended, it can start to rot, cause paint to peel, and result in deterioration.
Indoor drafts – If you recently had new windows installed, and you’re feeling drafts seep into your home, that’s a clear sign of faulty window installation. Newly installed windows should increase your home’s energy efficiency, not compromise it by ushering in drafts.
- Issues that can arise as a result – When outdoor temperatures seep into your home, your interior can become uncomfortable and your utility bills may increase.
Warranty Issues
No warranty – Manufacturers require contractors to adhere to a high set of standards to ensure you receive the exceptional performance their windows were designed to deliver. These requirements should be met to ensure your warranty is honored should it ever be needed. Reputable contractors provide you with a manufacturer’s warranty and workmanship warranty. If they don’t, that’s an indication you probably received a subpar window installation.
- Issues that can arise as a result – Without a warranty, you have no guarantee the contractor or manufacturer will cover any issues that may pop up after your windows are installed.
The Positive Impacts of Proper Window Installation
Improved Energy Efficiency
When replacement windows are installed properly, your energy savings will improve instantly. This will result in lower utility bills throughout the year.
Greater Indoor Comfort
Choose a contractor with a track record of success who installs windows with attention to detail. This ensures you get the indoor comfort you desire from new windows. Then say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a comfy, cozy home.
Optimal Aesthetics
New windows installed with precision by a reputable team create maximum curb appeal outside and beauty inside your home.
Increased Window Lifespan
When windows are installed properly, they will deliver the high performance and long life they were engineered to deliver.
Get Replacement Windows Installed with Meticulous Attention to Detail by the Experts at Porter Family Exteriors
Don’t settle for subpar window installation. Get gorgeous new Andersen® Windows installed by our experienced team of experts! At Porter Family Exteriors, we are an Andersen Windows Certified Contractor, and we install custom-fit Andersen Windows. We have over 100 years of combined experience perfecting our skills and techniques. That means we know what works and what doesn’t.
When you choose our team, you get the most knowledgeable people providing quality workmanship. Select from several materials from vinyl to aluminum-clad wood, and nearly a dozen styles including casement, double-hung, picture windows, and more. Learn more about how our window replacement services can add beauty and energy efficiency to your Southeast Pennsylvania home.
