A professional window installation ensures your windows are properly framed and sealed. This helps maintain a weather-tight seal, reduce energy costs and protect the warranty on your new windows.
Start by measuring the width and height of the rough opening, using a step ladder. Then, use the smallest measurements when ordering your new window. Visit https://www.windowinstallationwaukesha.com/ to learn more.
The frame of a window is an essential part of the entire structure, and it influences everything from the overall appearance to the thermal characteristics. The frame itself makes up between 10-30% of the overall window U-factor as listed on an NFRC label, which is why choosing the right material for your new windows is so important.
There are many different frames to choose from, and each material offers unique benefits for your home’s style and climate. For example, aluminum frames are valued for their sleek look and durability, while vinyl offers affordability and easy maintenance. Fiberglass is another popular option, offering a long lifespan and resistance to heat. If you’re looking for something that combines both energy efficiency and longevity, consider a composite frame, which has a wood core surrounded by fiberglass or aluminum.
Depending on your needs, you may choose to install a full frame or pocket window. A full frame replaces the existing window, including all of its casings and jambs. To install a full-frame window, contractors first need to clean the old opening and remove any hardware or sash weights from inside the window. They will also inspect the exterior stop moulding for damage and repair or replace as needed, then apply flashing tape to the outside of the frame before installing it in the opening.
Once the window is in place, the contractor will use shims to ensure that it’s level and plumb. They’ll also check for any gaps or cracks, then caulk them to create a watertight seal. In some cases, a backer rod will be used to reduce the amount of caulk required for a stronger and longer-lasting seal.
Older windows sometimes have sash weights or springs to keep them balanced, and the contractor will need to cut their plastic covers. They may also need to take out the sash weights or springs from inside the window, using a utility knife to score and pry them free. If they are not replacing the entire frame, they’ll skip this step. They will also add exterior trim to complete the job, which is available in a wide range of widths and details to match your home’s style.
Glass
The glass of your windows protects your home, keeps it insulated, and showcases it beautifully. It is a big part of your overall window system, so it is important to choose the right glass for your project. When choosing new glass, look for products that have an energy star seal and offer a variety of options like tinted, tempered, or laminated glass. Some also come with krypton gas and argon gas to increase insulation. Choosing a glass with these features will help reduce your energy costs and make your home more comfortable in any season.
Before installing the new glass, you should carefully measure the space for the window. It is important to remember that even a small measurement error can cause the replacement window not to fit properly. It is also a good idea to use a tool that makes it easy to cut glass and make precise cuts.
Once the glass is prepared, it is time to install it into the frame. Using painter’s tape or duct tape, mask the area where you will be cutting the glass. This will prevent any accidental scratches to the glass and will also reduce clean up. When cutting the glass, it is important to use a fine blade and work slowly. It is also important to handle the glass carefully, as it is often more venerable at the edges and corners.
Ensure the window is positioned correctly in the opening and check that the nailing fins are aligned with the rough opening. Use a level to verify that the window is perfectly seated and the sill is flush with the floor. Once the window is set, installers will install a piece of weatherstripping to seal any gaps and prevent water or air from entering the home.
When you’re looking for a custom glass installation company, you should be able to find one that will provide you with quality workmanship and excellent customer service. The best companies will arrive on time and prepare the work area to minimize risk of injury and damage. They will set up tarps, ladders and platforms as needed to keep the work area safe and secure. They will not leave until they are satisfied that the custom glass is placed properly.
Caulking
Caulking is essential to the integrity of your window installation. It prevents moisture from damaging the frames, reduces drafts, and helps you save on your energy bills. It also adds to the aesthetic of your home.
When it comes to caulking your windows, you want a high-quality product that will stand up to the elements. Look for products that are UV-resistant and have a 50-year lifespan.
The first step in caulking is to prep the area. Remove any dirt and debris from the surface to ensure a strong bond. It’s also important to repair any rot or damage to the area before applying new caulk.
Once the caulking is dry, the window can be installed. Your installer will use a level to ensure the window is set correctly in the frame and that it’s even with the opening. They’ll also check to see that the sash opens and closes easily, and that locks and other hardware are secure.
After the window is installed, contractors will install trim around the window to add a finished look to your home. This trim is available in a variety of widths and details to complement your home’s style, and can be painted to match your windows.
A good quality trim will also last longer than vinyl caulking, and can be trimmed down to size with a power saw or handsaw. Contractors will also fill nail holes and caulk the edges to maintain a neat, professional finish.
There are many different types of caulking, and choosing the right one is important. Polyurethane caulks are great for outdoor applications, as they’re durable and waterproof. Silicone caulk is another great option for indoor projects, as it’s paintable and dries quickly. Acrylic latex caulk is another option, but it’s not ideal for exterior use because it doesn’t hold up well to varying temperatures or moisture conditions.
Installation
If you are like most homeowners, the main reason you choose to replace a window is because of energy savings. You want a home that is comfortable year-round, with the minimum amount of energy loss. A quality installation by a professional is the key to proper performance for the life of the window. A window that is properly installed minimizes air leaks and moisture, prevents energy losses, promotes proper functioning of the sash and frame, reduces noise and squeaks and looks good for years to come.
Before the window is set into place, it is inspected to ensure that it is the correct size for the opening. It may be necessary to trim the sill, trim the exterior of the window or caulk around the outside edge to achieve a precise fit.
The contractor removes the sash by unscrewing the parting beads (or if they are hung windows, they may cut the inside wooden stops that hold them). They then pry off or screw the interior wooden stops to take out the upper and lower sashes. They will also remove the sash weights or springs (if they are present).
Once the window is set into place, the contractor will apply foam to fill any gaps between the window and the frame, shim where needed and then caulk around the window. They will use a high-quality exterior caulk to ensure that it is weatherproof, especially around the bottom of the window.
In addition to caulking, the installers will often put silicone sealant at the base of the frame to prevent water and moisture from getting behind the drywall. They will also install a new drip cap to protect the foundation from water damage.
After the window is completely installed, the team will vacuum up the debris and remove any leftover protective film on the glass of the new window. Canvas runners and tarps will be placed throughout the house to keep any debris from being tracked in your carpeting or floor. Once the project is complete, your home will be cleaned and any remaining debris will be bagged or thrown away.