8 Residential Window Installation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

residential window installation mistakes to avoid

Do you have windows in your home that are over 20 years old? If so, it’s probably time for you to start thinking about replacing your old windows with new ones.

Most windows functionality will start to deteriorate after about two decades. If your windows are at this stage, it will be important to begin the window installation process.

In order to ensure a smoother process, it will be helpful to learn about the different residential window installation mistakes that homeowners sometimes make. Educating yourself will make installing new windows in your home much easier.

We’ve put together a list of the eight biggest residential window installation mistakes and what you can do to avoid them. Find out more below.

  1. Waiting Too Long to Install New Windows

There isn’t a definitive expiration date on windows. Some will last for 20 years, while others might last for 30, 40, or even 50 years.

It is important to keep a close eye on your home’s windows at all times and take note of any issues with them. If you start to see too many problems with windows, it is important to take note of the issues and act quickly on the opportunity to replace them.

Waiting too long to take action is one of the worst residential window installation mistakes you can make. Putting off replacing old windows can have an impact on everything from your home’s energy efficiency to its security.

  1. Picking Out the Wrong Windows to Install

When it’s time to install new windows in your home, you might be surprised to see how many options are on the market, from vinyl windows to wood windows to fiberglass windows and more.

There are also many different window designs, such as double-hung windows, casement windows, bay windows, and more. There are plenty of options when it comes to replacing old windows.

Don’t make the mistake of simply picking out the first windows you can find, as they might not be the best windows for your home.

  1. Shopping for New Windows Without a Budget

Most windows are going to cost between $300 and $700 per window. However, there are also some windows that’ll cost well over $1,000 in certain cases.

With this in mind, you should always shop for new windows for your home with a budget in mind. Having a budget will ensure you don’t break the bank on replacement windows you can’t afford.

  1. Failing to Take Accurate Measurements for New Windows

After you’re able to pick out the new windows you want to install, you’ll need to have accurate measurements taken for each new window you’ll be putting into place.  Without taking accurate measurements of the windows, unfortunately, the installation process is going to be more complicated than it should be.

A good window installation service will be able to take the right measurements for your new windows within your home. Leave window measuring up to the professionals versus trying to measure new windows yourself.

  1. Hiring the Wrong Window Installation Company

There are quite a few window installation companies that you can count on to help install new windows in your home. It is important not to be tempted to select the first company that pops up when you Google “window installation companies near me.” Instead, you should do research on all your local window installation companies and look specifically for one that has the experience and expertise to install windows in your home the right way.

  1. Neglecting to Prepare Your Home for Window Installation

There are several steps that you can take to get your home ready for the window installation process. Your window installation service provider will be able to get right down to business when your home is prepared prior to the process beginning.

Here are a few things you can do to make sure your house is ready for window installation:

  • Move furniture, window coverings, etc., away from the windows in your home that are going to be replaced
  • Create walking paths throughout your home for window installers
  • Take kids and/or pets out of a home prior to the beginning of the window installation process

Window installers will be able to get in and out of your house without any major issues when you’re diligent about getting it ready to go.

  1. Choosing the Wrong Time to Install New Windows

There are certain times throughout the year that are better for installing new windows in your home than others. Ideally, you should try to find a time when the temperatures will be on the milder side since that will work best for the window installation process. Attempting to have windows installed when it’s either too hot or too cold outside can create complications when you’re having windows put in place.

  1. Replacing Windows That Could Be Repaired

If you have very old windows that are starting to fall apart, replacing them may be your only option. If your windows are still on the newer side and could simply use some TLC, having residential window glass repair done could bring them back to life.

At the very least, it might be worth exploring this option. It could save you money while breathing life back into your windows and making them look great.

Don’t Make These Residential Window Installation Mistakes

If you’re unhappy with the appearance and/or performance of your home’s windows, you should aim to do something about it. Replacing them might be your best option.

Just make sure you don’t make any of the residential window installation mistakes listed here. It will derail your window replacement project and ultimately make it more stressful than it should be.

Contact us now to see how we can help you with your home’s windows.