If you’re planning to attempt to install your own windows, be careful–a few basic missteps, and you could be faced with some costly fixes later down the road. This isn’t just about security but also in regards to your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and health. Therefore, even if you’re a DIY pro, you should still keep in mind the following common window installation mistakes that could cause serious problems in the long term.
Skipping the Flashing
A lot of people have never heard of flashing, but every window needs it. It acts as a barrier against water intrusion between the wall and window, much like a giant o-ring, which is essential in areas prone to moisture. Without it, water can sneak into gaps, causing mold or rot over time, and you wouldn’t want that.
Choosing the Wrong Window Size
This might seem obvious, but incorrectly sized windows can lead to drafts and water infiltration, which compromise your home’s insulation and security. Even a small size miscalculation can result in gaps that allow unwanted airflow and moisture to enter your home. So, double-check your measurements before ordering, and ensure that the windows you buy will fit snugly.
Incorrect Placement of Shims
Shims are another aspect of window-fitting that people often overlook. Ultimately, they help stabilize windows, so they’re pretty important, and if you place them improperly, this could throw off the alignment of the frame. You might also have to deal with jamming or even breakage when pressure builds up, so make sure you place your shims carefully and precisely and seek assistance if you’re not too confident.
Over-relying on Caulk for Sealing
There’s no denying that caulk can be useful in helping to seal minor gaps, but it shrinks over time and shouldn’t be relied on as the only barrier against drafts. Weatherstripping is far more important to create an airtight seal that remains durable. Sure, go ahead and use some caulk to supplement weatherstripping, but don’t rely on it as a standalone solution.
Not Using Insulating Foam
Even the smallest gap between the window frame and wall can result in heat loss, significantly impacting your home’s energy efficiency. This is where expanding foam comes in handy, providing a quick and effective way to fill these gaps through a barrier that keeps warm air in and cold air out. Trust us–this simple step will make a noticeable difference in your heating bills.
Skipping Pre-Installation Checks
A pre-installation inspection can save a lot of trouble down the line. For example, you’ll need to check for defects like cracks, chips, or alignment issues, ensuring that your future windows won’t have any insulation or stability problems. Even minor imperfections can worsen over time, so it’s worth the extra effort to examine each window carefully.
Forgetting to Account for Moisture Barriers
Another common window installation mistake that will cause you a lot of trouble is forgetting to account for moisture barriers. These are essential for protecting your walls against water infiltration that could lead to mold or rot, which is especially important in humid climates. So, don’t forget to install a moisture barrier because you’ll inevitably have to take your window apart and install it later down the line.
Improper Nailing Technique
Nailing might seem straightforward, but doing it incorrectly can affect the stability and water resistance of your window. For instance, if nails are placed too close to the glass or in vulnerable parts of the frame, it can lead to cracks or leaks, which is as bad as it sounds. Just stick to the manufacturer’s nailing guidelines, and you’ll be able to keep the window secure and minimize structural risks.
Neglecting to Level the Window
In addition to measuring your window precisely, you’ll need to ensure that there is no form of unevenness, as this could cause all sorts of functionality and insulation problems. Most notably, it will affect how easily the window opens and closes, so to prevent this, use a spirit level during installation, and your windows should be able to sit perfectly straight.
Using the Wrong Type of Caulk
As we mentioned earlier, caulk can be a useful tool in window installation, but not if you choose the wrong type. Remember: not all caulks are built for outdoor use, as indoor caulks don’t hold up well to temperature changes and weather, making them unreliable for external sealing. Make sure you choose a weatherproof, flexible caulk for your exteriors, and you shouldn’t have to deal with this problem.
Not Allowing for Window Expansion
While it’s true that you should be aiming for a snug window installation, remember that temperature fluctuations cause window frames to expand and contract, so you don’t want them to be overly tight. Leaving a little space for expansion can prevent damage and extend the window’s lifespan, so don’t overlook this minor albeit important detail.
Overlooking the Slope of the Sill
DIY window installers often forget that the window sill should be sloped outward to direct water away from your walls. If the sill sits flat or tilts inward, it can cause water to pool and eventually seep into the wall, leading to mold, moisture damage, or worse. As long as you keep your window sill correctly aligned, though, it should keep water outside where it belongs.
Failing to Secure the Frame Correctly
Don’t make the mistake of installing a window frame that loosely, as this will cause it to shift over time, leading to drafts, cracks in the glass, or structural damage. Loose frames also make your home less energy-efficient, so remember to take the time to firmly secure the frame and prevent unnecessary movement, keeping your window stable and insulated.
Ignoring the Effects of the Weather During Installation
Weather conditions play a crucial role in how well materials bond and set during installation. For example, rain or extreme cold can affect the curing process of caulk or foam, leading to poor adhesion. Therefore, you should choose a dry, mild day for installation; that way, you’ll be able to ensure that everything bonds properly.
Not Protecting Against UV Exposure
One of the most commonly overlooked parameters when it comes to window purchases is UV resistance. The UV from sunlight can degrade certain window materials over time, leading to cracks, fading, or warping, but thankfully, UV-resistant caulk and frames exist. This will be particularly important to keep in mind if you have a window that will be in direct sunlight for large portions of the day.
Improper Alignment of the Window Panes
Not only should your window frame be properly aligned during installation, but your window panes should be, too, or they can create gaps that allow drafts and reduce insulation. In fact, if the panes aren’t seated perfectly within the frame, you may notice air leakage and a higher energy bill, whereas proper alignment ensures that each pane fits tightly, improving both comfort and energy efficiency.
Underestimating the Importance of Weatherstripping
We briefly mentioned weatherstripping earlier, a material that forms a protective seal around the window, blocking drafts and moisture. Without it, even the most carefully installed window can let in unwanted air, so don’t cheap out on it. Do what you have to do to appropriately weather-strip each window, and even if it costs a few bucks, you won’t regret it when you save far more on your energy bill.
Failing to Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Perhaps the most detrimental mistake to avoid when installing windows is to ignore the specific installation instructions. It’s incredibly common for DIY-ers to skip reading such information, “winging it,” and assume all windows are installed the same way. This couldn’t be more wrong–ignoring these guidelines increases the risk of improper sealing, shimming, or framing, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely, or your home will no doubt suffer from your negligence.