Common Problems Caused by Poor Window Installation

The windows in your home let in sunlight and fresh air, and add beauty to any space. However, did you know that how they're put in matters a lot, as well?

If the windows in your home aren't installed correctly, it can cause problems, making your home less comfortable and wasting precious energy.

Understanding the Impact of Incorrectly Installed Windows

Installing windows in your home isn't just about how they look – they also affect how much energy your place uses, how comfy it is inside, and even how strong the building is.

At Canadian Choice Windows and Doors, our experts make sure to look over your window installation to confirm it was done correctly. However, not all companies set aside time and resources for this task.

When windows aren't put in right, they can't keep out air, moisture, or even heat or cold. This makes your home less comfortable, uses up more energy, and can even make it less safe.

Issues Stemming from Subpar Window Installation

• Air Leakage: Sometimes, windows have gaps or cracks around them, letting air sneak in and out. This makes it harder to keep the temperature just right inside, and uses up more energy to do so.
• Moisture Intrusion: If windows aren't sealed properly, water can sneak into your building. This can cause damage like mould and rot, which can make your building weaker.
• Reduced Energy Efficiency: When windows don't keep heat or cool air in, it means your heating and cooling systems have to work extra hard. This uses up more energy, costs more money, and isn't good for the environment.
• Drafts and Temperature Variations: Inadequately installed windows can make some parts of your building too hot or too cold, making it uncomfortable for you and your family or customers.

When is it Time to Replace Your Windows?

Just like any other part of your home, your windows can wear out over time. Our experts at Canadian Choice go over these signs of wear and tear with you, helping you recognize when it's time to replace your windows – a task important for keeping your place safe and comfortable.

• Visible Damage: If you see cracks, warping, or decay in the frames or glass of your windows, it's a big sign they might need replacing. These damages can let in drafts and make it harder to keep your home cozy.
• Difficulty Operating: If you're struggling to open, close, or lock your windows because they're worn out or misaligned, it's a sign they might need replacing. This can make it harder to keep your home secure.
• Increased Energy Bills: Are your energy bills going up, even though you're trying to save energy? If so, it could mean your windows aren't sealing properly, letting in drafts and making your heating or cooling system work harder.
• Excessive Condensation: If you're seeing lots of condensation between the panes or on the inside of your windows, it could mean the seals are failing. This compromises their ability to keep heat in and can lead to higher energy bills.
• Noticeable Drafts or Air Leakage: Feeling drafts or noticing air leakage around your windows means they're not sealing properly. This can make your home less comfortable and reduce indoor air quality.

What Happens When Windows are Not Installed Properly?

Not everyone is as diligent about proper window installation as our team at Canadian Choice. When windows aren't installed correctly, this can cause problems that make your home less efficient. Some common issues include:

• Air infiltration and drafts, using up more energy.
• Moisture intrusion, leading to water damage, mould growth, and even making your home less safe.
• Reduced thermal efficiency, which means higher heating and cooling costs.
• Operational problems like difficulty opening, closing, or locking the windows.
• Premature failure of window components, which can mean pricey repairs or replacements.
• Compromised structural integrity of your home, making it less sturdy and safe.

How to Spot Incorrect Window Installation

It's important to know if your windows are installed correctly, since improper installation can lead to lots of problems in your home.

• Visible Gaps or Cracks: If you see gaps or cracks between the window frame and the wall, it could mean the sealing isn't good. This lets in air and makes it harder to keep your home cozy.
• Uneven Gaps: Check around the edges of your windows. If you notice gaps that aren't the same size all the way around, it might mean the windows weren't aligned properly when they were installed.
• Difficulty Operating: Do your windows stick, jam, or feel hard to open or close? This could be a sign they weren't installed correctly.
• Evidence of Water Damage: Look for signs of water damage, like mould, rotting wood, or water stains around the window frame. This suggests that water might be getting in through the windows.
• Noticeable Drafts or Air Leakage: If you feel drafts or notice air leaking around your windows, especially when it's windy or the temperature changes, it could mean they weren't sealed properly.
• Condensation Between Panes: If you see condensation forming between the panes of glass or on the inside of the glass, it could mean the seals are failing and the insulation is compromised.

How to Check if Your Window Installation Was Done Correctly

If you're unsure whether your windows were installed properly, our experts at Canadian Choice can show you how to do a few checks yourself:

• Visual Inspection: Look closely at the windows inside and outside your home for any signs of damage, gaps, or misalignment. Pay special attention to the caulking, weatherstripping, and sealing around the frames.
• Operability Test: Open and close each window to make sure they move smoothly without sticking or feeling too tight. Test the locks to make sure they work properly too.
• Thermal Performance: Feel around the windows for drafts or temperature differences. You can also use a thermal imaging device to check for heat loss.
• Moisture Evaluation: Look for signs of moisture intrusion, like water stains, mould, or softening of the materials around the windows.
• Professional Inspection: Consider hiring a qualified contractor or inspector to do a thorough assessment of your window installation, especially if you suspect there might be hidden issues.

At Canadian Choice Windows and Doors, we understand that proper window installation is crucial for keeping your home comfortable, energy-efficient, and structurally sound. By relying on our team to help you recognize the signs of improper installation done before we arrived and knowing how to check for them, you can take steps to address any problems early on.

For superior window installation services and top-quality windows and doors, reach out to us at Canadian Choice Windows and Doors. With our expertise, we help you achieve energy efficiency, comfort, and aesthetics for your home. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.