Having a beautiful home requires working on it, especially if you have just bought it and you want to adapt it so it can meet your standards completely. It is not easy to adapt everything, but look at it as an enjoyment since every repair you make will be a step closer towards having a perfect home that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Set a budget for the repairs you want to do and make a plan that you can stick to and implement easily.
If you want to have a beautiful, energy-efficient, and comfy home, one of the most important steps is to install new replacement windows and ensure that each step during the process is executed flawlessly with the greatest attention to detail.
You need to know first when your home was built because that impacts the quality of windows in general and the way they are made. Also, it is necessary to take all the measures to be able to find the appropriate replacement and avoid having problems after. If you want to do it yourself, you should learn as much as you can about the process, so when the time actually comes to roll up your sleeves and do the job, you will be completely ready.
However, for most homeowners, this is not always the case. They start working without consulting the professionals or being fully aware of the process which may significantly impact the result. In most cases, one or more steps in window replacement are compromised, and homeowners end up getting results they didn’t expect. Here at Total Home Windows and Doors, we have listed some of the common mistakes homeowners make. See more here.
1. Wrong Size Of Rough Opening
The rough opening needs 2’x3′ double-hung window. However, note that this requirement varies depending on the manufacturer and the type of the windows. Besides, you can have custom replacement windows built to fit any size of the rough opening. However, most window manufacturers manufacture ‘standard’ windows. These windows are usually less expensive compared to custom-built windows.
2. Wrong Size Jambs
If you are planning to order windows together with its jambs, make sure that you include the width of the jambs if the final interior surface will be groove, plaster, tongue, or any other material exceeding half-an-inch drywall.
3. Poor Flashing Adherence
Before you add flashing tapes and membranes, make sure there is no moisture, dust, or debris on the window sills. Even a few millimeters can impact the way the result will look.
Also, remember that some membranes and tapes will not stick well if applied in cold weather, so make sure that you read the manufacturer’s manual to know the right time to apply it. Read the instructions for every product you want to use to maximize the results. If you need to install flashing in cold weather, you may need to add primers before installing your flashing.
4. Securing Nail Fins Without Inspecting The Flashing
If there is a bend or the nail is not nailed correctly, it can shift the window. Before you nail the nail fins, inspect whether the windows operate well and are still centered, plumb and square. Remember, small mistakes can make your window replacement imperfect, which is certainly something you don’t want. Do everything slowly and carefully to make sure that everything looks flawless.
5. Failing To Seal The Nailing Fins
Apart from sealing the nailing fins underneath, nailing fins that are not directly used on the window should be sealed to the frame. The best way to achieve this is through rolling the membrane or flashing tape over the nailing fin and then on the edge of the frame of the window.
6. Misusing Spray Foam
Using the foam to fill the whole window perimeter prevents unwelcomed liquids from getting back into the outdoors. It should be applied properly and use the recommended amount. On the other hand, using excessive foam can bow the wood jams or distort the frame of your window and impact the overall look at the end.
7. Dirty Hands
If there are unfinished window parts, do not smear sealant or foam on them. It will be hard to get rid of the stains from the unfinished wood surface. So, you would want to put aside an additional pair of gloves to apply sealant and foam. This way, you can be sure that there will be no fingerprints all over the place.
8. Failing To Follow Instructions
Some windows might have different installation requirements. So, do not rely on what you know, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you are not sure how it should be done, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals who are experienced with this type of work and who can take care of everything the way you want to.
In general, the most important thing is to prepare all the tools, materials, and accessories you need before you start working on your windows. Keep in mind that this is a process that requires your full attention and dedication. Get familiar with all the stages of the process before you dive into the adventure. If there is something you are not familiar with, do your research, ask a friend or leave it to someone who knows these things better than you.
Always keep in mind that your goal is to increase the functionality of your home and to prevent the heat from leaving your home during the coldest months. This is the investment that will be well worth it, that’s for sure. However, it is also important to make sure that the style will be suitable for the overall appearance of your home. Avoid experimenting, because your home reflects who you and your family are. It is necessary to feel pleasant in the home you are spending so much time in. Do your best to meet the requirements of the task best way you can, so when everything is finished you are fully satisfied with the work you’ve done.
