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 windows not integrated to the existing building paper. Common problems from these installations result in water and air infiltration leading to rot and mold.

Window installation failure leading to rot

Three out of four window manufacturers will be sued for faulty workmanship on the part of the contractor and 60% will be sued more than six times!

Lawsuits

We could not find a single window manufacturer that will recommend a fin-less replacement window installation when replacing metal framed windows.

Window Manufacturer

Did you know that prior  to this point in time the only option to pass AAMA pressure tests was to replace the entire exterior of the building which included building paper, flashings, SAM, siding, penetration blocks, wood trim, membranes, and the  windows themselves. Obviously a very expensive proposition.

Window pressure test

New 2012 IRC building code R 703.8 requires pan flashings, jamb flashings, and head flashings. Enforcement begins July 2013 in most jurisdictions. Here 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.

Building Inspector

A very interesting article from home inspector Charles Buell