Sheet 01 / The problem
Where replacement window installations fail, who pays for it, and what the code requires at the opening.
The facts
Studies have found that 8 out of 10 replacement window installations are installed incorrectly and may fail. Failure occurs from aging sealant on windows without nail fins, and from windows not integrated to the existing building paper. Common problems from these installations result in water and air infiltration, leading to rot and mold.
Three out of four window manufacturers will be sued for faulty workmanship on the part of the contractor, and 60 percent will be sued more than six times.
We could not find a single window manufacturer that will recommend a fin-less replacement window installation when replacing metal framed windows.
AAMA window pressure tests
Prior to this system, the only option to pass AAMA pressure tests was to replace the entire exterior of the building.
Obviously a very expensive proposition.
How Rain Jacket passes with the siding onBuilding code / IRC R703.8
2012 IRC building code R703.8 requires pan flashings, jamb flashings and head flashings. Enforcement began July 2013 in most jurisdictions. This is the verbiage from the code book.
R703.8 Flashing. Approved corrosion-resistant flashing shall be applied shingle-fashion in a manner to prevent entry of water into the wall cavity or penetration of water to the building structural framing components. Self-adhered membranes used as flashing shall comply with AAMA 711. The flashing shall extend to the surface of the exterior wall finish. Approved corrosion-resistant flashings shall be installed at all of the following locations:
1. Exterior window and door openings. Flashing at exterior window and door openings shall extend to the surface of the exterior wall finish or to the water-resistive barrier for subsequent drainage. Flashing at exterior window and door openings shall be installed in accordance with one or more of the following:
1.1. The fenestration manufacturer's installation and flashing instructions, or for applications not addressed in the fenestration manufacturer's instructions, in accordance with the flashing manufacturer's instructions. Where flashing instructions or details are not provided, pan flashing shall be installed at the sill of exterior window and door openings. Pan flashing shall be sealed or sloped in such a manner as to direct water to the surface of the exterior wall finish or to the water-resistive barrier for subsequent drainage. Openings using pan flashing shall also incorporate flashing or protection at the head and sides.
1.2. In accordance with the flashing design or method of a registered design professional.
1.3. In accordance with other approved methods.
Free estimate and advice on your specific project
Send us the cladding type, the number of windows and your location, and we will give you a price. We have been in the window trade since 1992.
