How to Spot Proper Window Flashing Installation

How to Spot Proper Window Flashing Installation

If you are a homeowner in Columbus, OH and are looking into hiring a window installation contractor, stop right here. You need to learn how to spot a proper window flashing installation so you can be confident your windows were installed correctly. Flashing helps create a tight seal with windows, which can prevent water damage. Whether you are installing window flashing on existing windows or replacement windows, the job must be done properly or the material will not perform as intended. Here's what you need to know about proper window flashing installation for new and replacement windows.

What is Window Flashing?

Window flashing, sometimes called weatherproofing, is a thin, flexible material that is intended to waterproof surfaces at joints. Flashing is often used for chimneys, doors, vent pipes, and windows. When you're having replacement windows installed, your contractor should use replacement window flashing to create a waterproof barrier.

Flashing comes in a range of materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, rubber, and acrylic. No matter which material is used for flashing, it must be properly installed or the window can leak.

Window flashing can be concealed, so you don't see it after installation, or left exposed. The style of flashing matters less than the installation.

Since window flashing is integral to the performance of the window, you must have a reliable window contractor. Look for a licensed Columbus window installation firm. Licensing, experience, and customer testimonials will give you confidence that you are hiring someone who not only knows what window flashing is, but understands the essentials of installing window flashing on existing windows.

Signs of Good and Bad Replacement Window Flashing

Contractors used to simply slash X marks in house wrap, pop in windows, and call it a day -- but this led to all sorts of mold and water damage. Reputable window installers know not to do this, so if you see a contractor try to penetrate the home envelope and push in a window, it's a major red flag. Do not let this person continue with the installation or you will pay in water damage.

Another common shortcut in the flashing process is when a contractor tries to wrap the windows from behind, hoping that this will be disguised when the project is completed. Unfortunately, this does not protect your home from water damage.

Flashing has to be done properly so that water moves down rather than in. Door and window openings pose a challenge because if the flashing is not done correctly water will pass into the home, setting you up for mold and moisture problems. Best practice calls for a contractor to cut the house wrap, tuck the bottom of the house wrap inside the house and seal it off with sill flashing tape. Contractors then do the same with the sides, so the window is protected on three sides. If you see the top of the house wrap hanging loose, that's a good sign that the contractor knows what they are doing.

Once this prep work is done, your contractor can insert the window and seal it with flashing tap, saving the top for last and lapping the top down over the sides. With every side of the window covered in flashing tape, your contractor can fold the house wrap at the top, then use house wrap tape to secure the job and create a waterproof seal.

Make Sure Replacement Window Flashing Goes in Right With Window Nation

Look to Window Nation, replacement windows experts with eleven years of experience, to get the job done right. Enjoy peace of mind with Window Nation Columbus window replacement. Contact us today.