At some point, homeowners frustrated by drafty doors or fogged double-pane windows will decide it’s time to bite the bullet and plan a replacement project.
And updating doors and windows can do more than stop wintry winds from sneaking into the home and expensive heat from slipping out. Today’s doors and windows are likely to be more energy-efficient, easier to use and more stylish, too. Materials used in these products have come a long way in the past couple of decades and offer a host of looks that weren’t possible when many homes or multi-family buildings were constructed.
But no matter how good-looking, or how high their energy-efficiency ratings are, when they’re in place, they’re only going to be as good as the installation job. When looking at such a major— and often costly — project as replacing a houseful of windows, it’s important to make sure the job is done right.
It is a common practice to replace windows and doors by removing the old component(s) without inspecting the frame and the surroundings. It is easy, quick and cheap — but not necessarily professional.
The best way to ensure an air/water tight installation is by removing the entire window and frame, replacing deteriorated wood, adding house wrap, flashing the sides and leaving the bottom free to breathe. Make sure the new window or door has flanges and that a mechanical top has been added, and that a material like QUAD Advanced or its equivalent is used instead of silicon caulk.
After all, homeowners want their new doors and windows to look sharp, work properly, and last a long time. As with many home improvement projects, spending a little extra time and money to do the job right will pay off in the long run.