Before your new window installation, you were likely looking forward to lower energy bills, noise reduction, and a boost in your home’s curb appeal.
If you’re questioning why your windows aren’t living up to your expectations, you may be the victim of an unprofessional window installation. Unfortunately, some inexperienced window contractors may leave your home with more problems than before your windows were replaced, like moisture damage, uncomfortable drafts, and foggy window panes.
Discover the warning signs of faulty window installation—and what to do if your windows suffer from these problems.
1. Noticeable Gaps
If your contractor properly measured for your new windows, they should fit comfortably between the windowsill and the frame. If you notice any gaps, this is usually a sign the either window wasn’t sized large enough to fit snugly in the frame or your contractor did not properly fit the windows squarely in the window to the opening.
2. Drafts
Modern windows are designed to increase your home’s energy efficiency and maintain a cozy indoor temperature by insulating your home. So, if you experience uncomfortable drafts inside your house or notice your utility bills have recently skyrocketed, you should ask an expert to evaluate your windows for shoddy installation.
3. Water Damage Around the Frame or Window Sill
Your windows should protect your home against the elements—not invite them indoors. As we mentioned earlier, poorly installed windows may have small gaps that offer an entryway for rain, snow, and ice to sneak into your house.
If you suspect your window has a water leak, you may notice a musty smell, pooling water on your window sills, and chipped, peeling, or bubbling paint.
4. Sticky Windows
Brand-new windows should open and close effortlessly. If they’re difficult to operate, impossible to lock, or make a creaking sound when you use them, your former contractor may have fitted your windows incorrectly. Usually, this problem occurs when the window company installed a sash that was bigger or smaller than the window or did not make adjustments to account for the house settling, and so your windows may be racked out of square.
Your windows will only become more challenging to operate as time passes, so it’s critical to contact a professional to evaluate the situation before you can’t use your windows at all.
5. Foggy Window Panes
Double-pane or triple-pane windows are created with multiple panes of glass separated by dense gasses. The entire system is sealed shut to provide energy-efficient performance. Condensation between your panes indicates that moisture is present in the window system, which means the window seal has been compromised and the insulating gasses are leaking out.
While seal failure is bound to happen slowly over time, a sloppy installer can break the seal during your window replacement, resulting in foggy windows that usually are accompanied by a rapid loss of energy efficiency and loss of the windows’ noise reduction.
6. Sloppy Caulking
You should be able to identify a clean, even line of caulking on the top and sides of your windows. If the caulking is patchy, it creates an opportunity for breezes or water to seep into your home.
Plus, carelessly applied caulking or other aesthetic issues.