We sat down with Gerry Dargatz, a Renovations Operation Manager from All Weather Windows to discuss all things windows. He provided us with expert advice on installation techniques, how to avoid common mistakes, things you need to let homeowners know and the importance of operational excellence.
Preparing to install
The majority of window warranty claims are due to faulty installations rather than product defects. Dargatz’s advice is to take precautions at every step of the process.
For example, it’s important to be sure of your measurements to ensure you’re ordering the proper window size.
“If a contractor makes a measurement error on their end, whether it’s too big or too small for the hole, they’ll be stuck with putting a piece of plywood in there — which can be embarrassing,” said Dargatz.
He said that it can be especially difficult in older homes to get window measurements correct. Contractors also need to consider whether or not a home has had renovations which will affect wall thickness.
“Especially when considering renovations, you can have multiple wall thicknesses in different locations in the house,” said Dargatz, noting the importance of measuring multiple jamb depths throughout a home. “You can have the wrong jamb depth if there have been renovations performed on other areas of the house. Contractors will want to be looking for areas where it looks like there's been an upgrade.”
He said to look at both the exterior and interior of the home. For example, old rock stucco on one part of the home’s exterior and vinyl siding on another would generally indicate there's been an addition to the house. Moving inside the home, renovations over the years may result in multiple layers of drywall or wall coverings which will alter the wall thickness.
Dargatz noted that the older a home is, the more likely there are hidden layers that can change the jamb depth. He also reminded contractors to look for signs of other underlying issues, such as water damage or leakage around the windows that could signal a problem.
“If there is any indication of water damage or leakage around the windows, then it’s likely the framing has deteriorated and you might find dry rot in there,” said Dargatz. “You’ll want to get ahead of the game in that case; if you're installing a window and it has rot underneath, it will take a lot of extra time and work. This is useful to know before you quote the customer — if you see indications of structural inadequacy you can give them a warning that there might be further complications.”
It’s also important to remember that not all older homes are square and it’s possible shortcuts were taken or building standards were different. Dargatz said that if framing is done incorrectly, you may not find out until you remove the old window. This creates challenges when installing the new window.
“Look out for heavily framed windows with a big mullion post — that’s a good indication that the window is actually a load-bearing framed window and so when you remove it, you’ll see the framing starting to sag,” Dargatz said. “Then, you’ll need to add a header and make sure that you structurally support the wall and roof before you take the window out.”
Window installation technique
Now that you know what to look out for when preparing, how can you ensure proper window installation?
Dargatz said to avoid leaving the window hanging and ensure it’s shimmed with an appropriate material such as cedar or a composite material. He cautioned against using OSB, MDF, plywood or hard rubber.
“Stay away from materials that will absorb moisture, swell and deteriorate,” he said.
Once you have the proper material, the next step is to begin placing the shims. Dargatz said the recommended place to shim is in line with the glazing block that holds in the glass, but sometimes it can be hard to tell where the blocks are on the glass above your window frame. If you’re unsure where the glazing block is located, you can shim from the ends of the window.
If the window has a mullion, be sure to shim underneath the post, he added.
When installing a window, you’ll also want to be sure to leave enough room between the window frame and the rough opening so you can insulate properly. Dargatz said they recommend a half-inch between the rough opening stud and the window frame as that will allow enough room to apply foam and insulate. Apply the insulation across the bottom of the shims and wrap the insulation foam around the shims to ensure they’re well-covered.
Of course, you have to make sure the window is plumb level and square in the frame.
“We know that walls can be out, so it can be tricky to get your window plumb enough — sometimes the wall does not co-operate with you,” said Dargatz.
All Weather Windows’ Installation Instructions can be found here.
Other considerations when installing windows
When it comes to window installation, Dargatz said that you always want to make sure you’re aware of any future plans the customer may have.
“Windows are often bought first before they side their house,” he said. “If they add onto the existing siding there’s a danger that the windows will be recessed in from the siding.”
If your customer tells you they plan to re-side their house, Dargatz recommended building out the window and making the jamb extend according to their plans.
Dargatz also noted the importance of drip cap flashing when installing a window. He said to make sure the drip cap comes over the front of the window far enough to shed water forwards, away from the window. You’ll also want to leave about an inch of length on either end of the window.
“If you don’t have a drip cap then you’ll be relying on the caulking which will expand and contract with the weather, eventually breaking up, letting water leak through,” he said. “It’s one of the primary areas that you want to get right.”
Why choose All Weather Windows?
All Weather Windows designs product according to their customers’ needs. Dargatz said the company is committed to research and development with a focus on operational excellence.
“We don’t make windows and force them onto customers,” he said. “We listen to our customers and what their needs are and custom-make products that suit those needs. We’re very innovative and industry-leading. Our windows are energy efficient, CSA approved and we provide professional installation and renovations.”
“I think we can guarantee that we are ahead of the game when it comes to Canadian companies — we bring that value to our customers,” said Dargatz.
