When getting replacement windows in Newberg, OR the new windows are only as good as the installation. You expect the new windows to be installed and sealed correctly. If not, windows can leak and weaken the structure of your home. The last thing you need is for something to go wrong and be left with poor performance. But do you know how to spot the warning signs of bad installation? Most homeowners know very little about the installation process, so here are a few warning signs of poorly-installed replacement windows:
Noise and Squeaks
Do the new windows make squeaky or cracking sounds? This is one of the first signs of improper installation.
Difficult Operation
Windows should open and close smoothly without any trouble. A window that gets stuck can be frustrating and a window that doesn’t open or close is no good at all.
Windows Out of Level
Does your window look crooked inside the frame? Have you taken a level to it and tested that theory? Ultimately you might have to if you want to make sure your windows were properly installed.
Messy Caulk
Window installation takes time to do the job right. This is especially true of caulking that requires skills, patience, and a steady hand. It is what seals the assembly for optimal efficiency. It also what holds the frame together and helps keep the window in place. Quick and sloppy caulking is easy to spot. It means the crew rushed to finish the job. Unfortunately, it can also mean the crews took other shortcuts.
Gaps
You don’t have to install windows professionally to spot gaps. These are clear indications windows were not properly installed. Usually, it comes down to a mistake in the measurements and the simply installed a window that wasn’t a perfect fit.
Drafts
Drafts are not normal, especially for newly installed windows. Double or triple glazing should resist the elements and protect the home against drafts. There should be no breezes or drafts of any kind coming through closed windows. So if your home is seriously lacking in efficiency it could be because the windows were not installed right.
Condensation
Condensation on the exterior surfaces of the glass is common. It happens when warm air comes in contact with a cold enough surface, and will come and go on its own. But fog caught between the panes of glass is a more serious problem. This indicates seal failure and the gas between the panes has been compromised. A good installer will be careful enough to keep the gas intact.
Water Damage
A damaged window lets in more than just air. It can also produce water leaks which can cause extensive damage. At first, you might notice a little mold or discoloration. But if the leak persists it can cause peeling paint, damaged flooring, sagging drywall, or damage to the substructures of the home.
At EnergyGuard Windows & Doors we provide superior customer service from the initial phone call to the final item of completion. Our master certified installation teams for replacement windows in Newberg, OR will get the job done right. Contact us at (503) 554-5500 or visit 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132.