Installing new French windows can upgrade your home’s aesthetic and allow more natural light inside. However, this popular remodelling project comes with risks of complications if key mistakes happen during the installation process. This article outlines key pitfalls and solutions when installing French windows.
1. Not Measuring the Opening Correctly
The most preventable yet common mistake made when installing French windows is taking inaccurate measurements of the existing window or door opening. Even being off by a fraction of an inch can impede proper installation and functionality. To avoid this, carefully use a steel tape measure to determine the width at both the top and bottom and the exact height in three places—the centre and each side.
2. Ignoring Weight Load Requirements
French windows tend to be much heavier than other window styles due to their dual sashes made with numerous panes of glass. Ensure ceiling joists, walls, and any underlying support structures can bear increased static and dynamic weight loads before installation. This may require professional structural evaluation, doubling up joists, installing additional headers, using supplementary support brackets or cables, and strengthening the foundation if adding more windows upstairs.
3. Neglecting to Install Flashing
Waterproof flashing is one of the most damaging yet commonly neglected aspects of proper French window installation. This material seals joints vulnerable to moisture intrusion from rain and melting snow. Make sure an experienced contractor correctly flashes at the rough sill, between window assemblies, at shingle joints, and anywhere water can penetrate the home’s underlying structure or interior.
Using premium grade, UV-resistant self-adhered flashing designed explicitly for fenestrations helps satisfy building code requirements while preventing exponential damage from water rot, mould, and pests over time.
4. Using the Wrong Installation Methods
French window installation differs from typical window methods, requiring meticulous technical execution. Consult manufacturer guidelines and building codes to determine appropriate picture framing, nailing fins, flanges, fastener types, trimming, and sealing methods. Using corrosion-resistant screws specifically sized for fenestrations and applying frames with compressible foam insulation maintains structural integrity. Ensure the team has expertise garnered from specialised fenestration training and credentials.
5. Installing Incorrectly on Stucco Finish
When installing French doors or windows onto existing stucco siding, avoid compromising the weather-resistant barrier, allowing moisture intrusion. Attach components using manufacturer-approved stucco perimeter accessory trim, properly counter flash and seal the nailing fin interfacing with the stucco, and apply high-grade elastomeric sealant rated for stucco adhesion at trim joints. Prevent cracks from developing in the finish by pre-drilling screw holes after confirming structural backing. Use non-corrosive fasteners to avoid rust bleeding through light-coloured stucco over time.
6. Not Accounting for Settling Shifts
Even perfectly square and plumb fenestrations installed onto well-built structures experience minor settling shifts over time. Failure to accommodate this can warp operating sashes, compromise weather seals, impede smooth opening/closing and locking functions, and stress vulnerable joints. Periodically checking for level and plumb can identify problems early before damage occurs.
7. Skimping on Protective Finishing Touches
Once installed, applying protective finishes ensures French windows sustain optimal integrity and appearance despite weathering elements and normal wear-and-tear. Carefully check manufacturer guidelines to determine appropriate exterior treatments that can withstand UV rays and atmospheric pollution without degrading over decades.
8. Failing to Test Post-Installation
Before considering the job officially complete, meticulously operate all window components multiple times to confirm proper functionality. Check if operating sashes, associated hardware, screens, and locking mechanisms work smoothly. Identify any sticking points requiring adjustment and touch up trim gaps or unfinished paint lines. Complete this quality assurance process while the contractor remains onsite to address any issues immediately under warranty policies before paying final invoices.
The Bottom Line
By gaining awareness of the most prevalent mistakes before French window installation even begins, homeowners can dodge frustration, added expenses, and liability risks. Carefully avoiding these common pitfalls allows for enjoying flawlessly functioning, visually stunning new French doors and windows for decades. Moreover, if you’re looking to install uPVC French windows, it would be best to choose AIS Windows.
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