Warning: Graphic Photos of Replacement Window Installations Gone Bad!

Project of the Week

Our project of the week is NOT from Windows on Washington!  Instead, we took the opportunity to show you how to spot a custom replacement window installation gone wrong.  

Windows on Washington advises all of our potential window replacement customers to ask the home improvement contractors they meet with for references that include addresses to view examples of their work.  We put together the following photo essay to show what to look for when examining the quality of a completed project.  Remember, you can buy the most expensive, highest performing replacement window in the world - but if they are installed poorly, the units will not perform as intended!  The photos we have gathered depict examples of poor workmanship, sloppy detail work and downright terrible installation practices.

The photo below is an example of window that was not installed level; note the visible gap on the bottom left hand side.  This window will never operate properly when opening or closing.  However, the bigger issue is air infiltration.  Without a tight seal, your energy dollars are literaly flying right out the window!

In this example, the capping work is carelessly and poorly aligned around the window.  This lack of attention to detail gives the overall appearance that the windows are not level.  With sloppy craftsmanship like this, you can't help but wonder what other shortcuts were taken during installation.

This photo of sloppy trim work is one of the most common installation problems we see - the trim is not properly tied into the existing siding.  Not only is this unsightly and indicative of a poorly skilled installer, the long term cost is major damage to the home.  Where do you think water will drain during a storm?  You guessed it - right behind the siding and inside the wall of the home!  With poor water management like that, there's no avoiding expensive and extensive repairs down the road. 

This photo speaks for itself!  We're looking at a combination of an improperly measured window unit, poorly installed trim, and sloppy caulking and craftsmanship.  In addition, the installers did not install a J-Channel under the sill of the window. The J-Channel would have given a finished edge to the siding and diverted water from around the openings.  We don't envy this homeowner...

This final picture is of a window installation where the Tyvek flashing is improperly installed.  Tyvek flashing is a self-sealing, bituminous tape designed to prevent water leakage around the window opening.  The improper application will cause constant water leakage (and headaches!) in the future for this homeowner. 

At Windows on Washington, we provide our customers with quality products and expert workmanship to improve the comfort, beauty, and energy efficiency of their homes.   We guarantee our work and install our products in accordance with industry best practices, taking extra steps to ensure quality performance and durability. Contact Windows on Washington today and let us make your home improvement dreams a reality!