How to Install Windows and Doors Properly
The American Architectural Manufacturer’s Association recently published a 317-page report on the correct way to install windows and doors. Luckily for our readers, I am not going to reproduce the report here! Here are a few highlights of the most critical mistakes:
1. Never block weep holes in windows and doors, as these allow water to drain properly. Pay particular attention to this when caulking.
2. Don’t block breather holes on dual-sash units. These holes are necessary for air circulation.
3. Use sealants that allow for movement, contraction, and expansion. Watch the recommended temperatures for installing sealant, as provided by the manufacturer.
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4. Don’t use finished window and door frames as material delivery entrances. Debris can gather and damage the frames and thresholds.
5. Be careful when welding around installed windows and doors. Shield the glass and frames to avoid damage by weld flash.
The entire report can be purchased from www.aamanet.org.
Photo provided by extranoise on Flickr through a Creative Commons License.
Be careful when caulking inside and outside of window installations. That is putting a vapor barrier on the inside and outside which will trap moisture laden air in between which condenses from meeting the cold and causes mold, mildew, and a host of other problems.
We are American Window & Door Institute researching, instructing and certifying proper window installation since 1989, and the basis of ASTM 2112 which forms substance platform for AAMA.
We have a federally registered Certification Mark for installation - something no one else has for window and door installation.