Reasons to Avoid DIY Window Installation
Saving Sorrows
Can I install windows myself and enjoy huge savings? Some homeowners try their hand at installing windows because they balk at paying a pro for what they assume will be a fairly straightforward task. This is generally a massive mistake. Few homeowners have the tools, equipment, or supplies needed to install a window, so they’ll need to invest in those. That immediately cuts into any savings that they’d hoped to secure.
There’s also the fact that installing a replacement window isn’t as simple as they make it look on those home renovation shows. Few existing homes are perfectly square, and even experienced handypeople can struggle to install a window in a way that will ensure smooth function and maximum efficiency. Even if you gain speed as you go, any attempt is likely to cost far more time and effort than you expect.
Warranty Woes
Can I install windows myself and still be protected by the warranty? As Pella indicates, installing your replacement windows yourself normally voids the manufacturer’s warranty. Many of today’s high-quality windows come with generous warranties, so you may want to think carefully before sacrificing that value. Most top manufacturers are willing to stand behind their product for ten years or more, but only if it’s been properly installed by a professional.
It’s worth noting that a faulty installation can cost you more than your warranty. In addition to shortening the life of your window, it could allow air or water intrusion. This would decrease efficiency. It might also set the stage for water damage.
Do-It-Yourself Difficulties
Can I install windows myself and do the job correctly? This is a question that you need to seriously consider. Windows may seem like simple items, but there is more happening than many people realize, especially with operable windows like the popular double-hung window. To make it even more complicated, the mechanics of windows vary, so you need to understand how your specific windows work to ensure that you’re removing the right pieces of the existing windows and leaving the right pieces intact. Then, you’ll need to verify that you’re placing the replacement window properly and surrounding it with the appropriate shims and insulation before you even consider aesthetics.
Remember that a failure to ensure that everything is square, level, and correctly insulated and sealed when a window is installed can lead to real problems for your window and your home. You might end up with a stubborn window that sticks. Or, you could find yourself battling drafts every time the wind blows. Alternatively, poor sealing that lets rain seep in might lead to leaks and water damage, and that can get expensive fast, especially if it triggers a mold infestation.
Of course, problems can occur even before the window is in place. For example, what happens if you drop or break a replacement window during a DIY installation? While a contractor may absorb the cost, if you are responsible for the break, then you’ll need to invest the additional time and money to purchase an extra window.
Updating the windows in your home is a fantastic way to increase your home’s value, brighten its look, and improve your family’s comfort. When you’re ready to find the perfect windows for your project, turn to American Window Company. With a huge selection of windows at affordable prices from the brands you trust, our team is sure to find exactly what you need. We can come out to measure your windows to verify that you’re getting the right fit, and our in-house installers will ensure that everything goes in correctly. Do you have your own contractor? We’ll deliver your windows so that your contractor can install them. When you need amazing windows, trust American Window Company. Contact us today to see what’s possible.
