Window Installation Facts

Most people don’t think too much about the windows in their homes. While they appreciate the natural light that comes in, they likely don’t sit around and think about window installation facts.

However, knowing some fun facts about windows might guide you toward the best contractor and window manufacturer during your next whole home window replacement project. 

Window Installation Facts

We’ve put together some interesting facts about windows to get you thinking about your next window replacement project. Some of these are just fun facts while others are important details you’ll want to consider before your next replacement window project.

1. Window replacement can save you an average of $126 to $465 a year. 
2. Old windows that leak or have gaps can be responsible for as much as 25-30 percent of all energy expenses in a home.
3. On average, windows last 15-30 years when well maintained.
4. Fiberglass is the most energy-efficient window material.
5. The Romans were the first to use glass windows.
6. The word window comes from the Old Norse word “vindauga,” which means “wind eye.”
7. Before the days of glass windows, people used paper, cloth or animal hide to make windows.
8. Windows were often considered a luxury in the 1600s. Only the wealthiest homes had windows.
9. The White House has an astounding 147 windows. However, Buckingham Palace has this beat with an incredible 760 windows. 
10. Skylights let in 5 times the natural light of a sidewall window.
11. The window installation industry employs 54,546 people.
12. The demand for windows is steadily increasing at about 1.1 percent annually.
13. Window glass takes about 1 million years to decompose, which is why it’s important to recycle windows.
14. The average home has about 8 windows, which takes up 15 percent of the total wall space.
15. Low-E glass is a smart move to prevent your interior walls and carpet from fading due to harmful UV rays. 
16. Single and double-hung windows sit flush with your walls, meaning you don’t need extra space to open them, unlike other types of windows that swing to open.
17. Light-colored shades and awnings provide the greatest protection for your windows to aid in even better energy efficiency. 
18. Windows are marked with important ratings based on their energy efficiency. You just need to learn how to read those markings. 
19. If you have condensation issues on your windows, the best fix is likely to replace the windows unless they are under warranty. 
20. Window replacement has a 73 percent ROI because it increases the resale value of your home based on the 2017 Cost. Vs. Value report from Remodeling Magazine.

Ensuring Proper Window Installation for Your Next Project

Did you know that window industry experts have found that 8 out of 10 replacement window installations are done incorrectly?

The replacement window industry uses many window installation methods. However, none of them integrate into the existing building envelope unless the contractor replaces the siding at the same time. Thus, when caulking shrinks or gets voids in it, water can travel between the new window installation and the building paper then into the building structure causing rot and mold.

Surprisingly, no window manufacturer recommends a fin-less window installation when replacing metal windows. So why do these window installation companies continue to use this method? Because it is quick, easy, and cheap. The window installation does not need highly skilled applicators and can be done in less than half an hour.

But when the 2FL team applied for a permit to replace windows in an apartment complex in Auburn, Washington, before we invented our patented window installation and products, the city asked that we install the windows using an AAMA-approved window installation method or install them to the window manufacturers recommended window installation directions. 

The challenge we faced was that the client didn’t want the siding replaced when replacing the windows and does not want to pay the extra money for a cut-out and trim job. The building owner did not want to have to paint.

Unfortunately, AAMA and the window manufacturer do not have a recommended window installation for fin-less windows. The only way to please this customer was to install the windows without a nail fin and allow the building owner to assume the risk. 

We created the Rain Jacket Flashing System because we knew there had to be a better way of doing things. Our patented method allows us to install windows that meet manufacturer guidelines and AAMA rules without installing new siding.

The Rain Jacket Flashing System

After years of development and testing, we found an answer to a common problem of window replacement. The Rain Jacket Flashing System revolutionizes the window installation industry and ensures a strong seal for your new windows.

Using the patented method, we can:

• Install replacement windows into a fiber cement, wood, vinyl, metal, brick, or stucco-sided homes and be able to integrate them into the existing building envelope without costly cladding repairs.
• Install windows and not compromise the building envelope.
• Install windows without applying interior or exterior trim.
• Install windows that pass the stringent pressure tests required for condominiums without residing
• Install windows before re-cladding, especially for large condominium projects on tight budgets that must have the windows pressure tested
• Install windows that will withstand hurricane force wind-driven rain

Scheduling an estimate with 2FL is easy. Use our online contact form or call 253-499-7786.

Window Installation FAQs

There is so much to learn before your next window replacement project. Here are some common questions and answers related to window installation.

Why Is Window Installation Important?

Improper window installation doesn’t create a firm barrier from the elements. It can mean energy loss for your home or far worse. Improperly installed windows could harm the structural integrity of your home from water damage.

How Long Does Window Installation Take?

On average, it takes 30 minutes to install a window. That means that the length of your window replacement project will vary based on how many windows your home has. More windows mean more time. The average home generally only requires one traditional 8-hour work day though.

How Difficult Is Window Installation?

Window installation is not the best do-it-yourself project because it requires advanced carpentry skills. Plus, if you’re replacing windows on a two-story home, you’ll have to have the right equipment and ladder to get to the windows. If you get injured, you’ll have to cover the medical bills. In contrast, if you hire a contractor, they’ll have the skills to know what they are doing and the insurance to protect their people so you don’t have any surprise expenses if something doesn’t go according to plan.

Further Reading:

• 9 Benefits of Energy Efficient Home Replacement Windows
• Best Window Replacement Companies in Auburn, WA
• Why You Need Siding and Gutter Protection Services