Before we talk about installation related items that can affect the performance of your windows, don’t lose sight of other key factors that may not directly affect the performance of your windows, but can greatly affect the outcome of your satisfaction with the installation and product overall.
At A BOBS GLASS we use our own employees (not subcontractors) to make sure that your home and belongings are secure and treated with the utmost care. There is peace of mind in knowing that the professionals installing your windows are covered by liability and worker’s compensation insurance, background checked, and properly trained on the manufacturer’s installation techniques.
Many companies may have “their own dedicated people” who perform installations, but that doesn’t mean they are employees of the company. They are most often IRS Form 1099 subcontractors and are paid piecework. You should ask if they are compensated as W-4 employees or 1099 and always ask for a Certificate of Insurance for your specific job which outlines the levels of liability and workers compensation coverage.
There is a lot that goes into a window and even more that goes into an installation. Just look at how complicated a window really is and notice how much of a windows construction is what you can’t see:
Some installers cut corners when it comes to the quality of the installation materials, (i.e. sealants/caulking, insulation, etc.) or just don’t have the expertise to properly set and level your new windows to make sure that they function properly and keep mother nature from getting inside your home.
Sometimes the fault may lie with the person who measured your windows incorrectly and didn’t order the right size, and the company, in order to save costs, directs the installation crew to “make it work”.
Even a small gap in protection can have detrimental effects on the performance of your new windows and doors. A gap of just 1/8 of an inch can let in as much air as having a 2.4 inch wide hole in the wall.
Deflection of water is the number one priority of flashing.
If water cannot get into the building structure then there is no need for drainage or drying. In fact, for true “window professionals,” Drainage is solely a backup safety practice.
In other words, we install drainage as a “worst case scenario,” such as in the event that a wicked storm hits Florida, any water that happens to penetrate will simply “drain” away. This is extraordinarily important when you consider that we get quite a bit of rainfall here in Florida.
If water does happen to penetrate behind the flashing, then drying will assist the removal of moisture but this will depend on the dampness in the air and the weather.
For example, if the weather is predominantly wet over long periods, as can happen during torrential rainfalls (like it has in florida during 2015 ) then the drying aspect will be very low and even negligible; thus only reaffirming the importance of installing flashing correctly.
That is why we do everything in our power to make sure that the window flashing is installed perfectly.
Because If Moisture Gets In Mold, Mildew, and Bacteria Growth Can And Will Occur Behind The Wall… Where You Can’t See It Until It’s Too Late.
Did you know that according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency mold growth can start to grow on damp surfaces in as little as 24 to 48 hours?
According to the same report, mold and mildew exposure can cause the following health problems:
Respiratory problems – wheezing, asthma attacks,
Respiratory problems – wheezing, asthma attacks, etc
Nasal and sinus congestion or dry, hacking cough
Eye irritation – burning, watery, redness
Nose or throat irritation -sneezing fits, bloody noses
Skin irritations – rashes or hives
Nervous system – headaches, memory loss, mood changes
Aches and pains
The worst part, mold and mildew will continue to grow until steps are taken:
Eliminate the source of moisture, ie. Fix Your Windows
Eliminate the existing growth, ie. Extensive cleaning requiring respirators and if it’s over 25 sq. ft. it requires hiring a professional.
Eliminate rot and structural damage. Mold and mildew can cause rot and structural damage, often to the tune of thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars
Here at A Bobs Glass we are committed to excellence call us today for a free estimate at 954-680-0506
serving all of Broward and Dade County’s