Your home’s windows protect you from the elements, create indoor comfort, bolster security, decrease noise intrusion, and enhance curb appeal. But when they aren’t installed properly, they fail to perform as they should.
Water intrusion, a drafty home interior, and compromised home security can all result from faulty window installation. To perform properly, they need to be installed with precision, and the art of success comes from experience and training—which you can only get from professional window installation contractors.
Here are some of the signs of improper window installation and what happens as a result.
Common Signs Your Windows Weren’t Installed Properly
There are two vital elements to the success of your windows:
- Expert installation—by a team of trained professionals
- Superior materials—from window frames to glass elements and insulating gas
If either of these is missing, you’ll miss out on the high performance you should enjoy from your windows over their lifetime.
If your current windows were not installed properly, you will notice:
1. Indoor Drafts
The most frustrating part of poorly installed windows is the drafts they create in your home throughout the year. This compromise in your dwelling’s protective seal can make it tough to attain indoor comfort during the months you need to use either your heating or air conditioning. Even small gaps that are tough to spot can let drafts, humidity, and air pollution into your home.
When windows don’t fit properly or aren’t caulked thoroughly, uncomfortable and inconsistent indoor temperatures result. And when the seal on your double- or triple-pane windows break, window replacements are in order.
2. Moisture Intrusion
Poorly installed windows allow water to invade your home. It may start subtly, but over time you will notice a consistent dampness, and unhealthy mold will creep into your window frame or window sill. Over time, paint may begin to peel and wood rot will set in, leaving you with the need for repairs or window (and window sill) replacement.
3. Foggy Window Panes
If your window seal breaks, the insulating argon gas leaks out of it, and water vapor seeps into it, creating fog or water droplets between your window panes. This not only hinders your views of the outdoors, but it also decreases the energy efficiency of your home. Foggy windows should be addressed by contacting a reliable window contractor.
4. Patchy Caulking
Caulk is not just a finishing touch to your window installation; it plays a vital role in safeguarding your home from damaging moisture intrusion and unwanted gaps that can lead to uncomfortable indoor drafts.
If your window’s caulking looks uneven or patchy, it’s possible your installer didn’t give much attention to details during not only this step but also throughout the other facets of your installation. (The exceptions are stucco, brick, or textured siding, on which caulk can develop gaps and deteriorate over time even if it was installed properly.)
5. Poor Window Function
Windows should work properly and with ease to provide the ventilation you desire in your home. If it’s tough to open and close your windows, either the sash wasn’t properly aligned or the window may be the wrong size for the space it occupies. Gaps may result, and costly leaks may occur over time. The good news is that you can avoid all these challenges when window replacements are installed by a qualified, experienced contractor.
6. No Warranty
If a contractor cuts corners and doesn’t install windows according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, you miss out on the benefits of a warranty. Manufacturers require installation experts to abide by their best practices in order to ensure you will get the long-term high performance your windows were designed to provide.
If your windows don’t have a warranty, it’s a clear sign they were likely not installed properly.
7. Not Level
If your current windows look a little crooked, it’s due to a poor installation job. Windows should add beauty and charm to your home, and being level is foundational to their proper installation.
Are you ready to replace your home’s windows? Our “Window Replacement Buying Guide” can help. Read the Guide
The Results of Poorly Installed Windows
1. High Energy Bills
The loss of energy efficiency from improperly installed windows can drain your pocketbook throughout the year.
2. Lack of Consistent Temperatures Indoors
Your home should be comfortable regardless of outdoor temperatures. Drafts can be avoided with proper installation.
3. Damaging Window Leaks
Water seeps into your home when windows aren’t fitted properly.
Solution: Replacement Windows Installed by the Pros
We offer durable fiberglass, cost-effective vinyl, maintenance-free aluminum, and gorgeous wood windows for your San Diego or LA home. Take a moment to discover how Approved Contractor’s window installation services can bolster your home’s indoor comfort level, heighten curb appeal, minimize noise intrusion, prevent damaging moisture, and maximize energy efficiency.