Your windows may look perfect at first glance, but how can you be sure they were installed properly? A poorly installed window might not show obvious problems right away, but over time, drafts, leaks, and difficulty opening or closing can creep in—leading to energy inefficiency and potential damage.

Before you settle in and assume everything is fine, it’s important to do a thorough post-installation check. Whether you’re a homeowner wanting peace of mind or just curious about the quality of your new windows, this guide will walk you through the key signs of a proper installation.

Step 1: Check the Locks and Alignment

After installation, the first step is to test the locks on your windows. Regardless of whether you have casement, double-hung, or other window types, the locks should align correctly. A misaligned lock is a clear indication that the window may not have been installed plumb (level) within the frame. Here’s what to look for:

• Lock Functionality: Lock and unlock each window, ensuring that the locks meet and align seamlessly. If the locks are out of alignment, it may mean the window isn’t square within the frame.
• Ease of Operation: A properly installed window should open and close without resistance. Casement windows, in particular, will give away any installation issues; if the crank-out mechanism doesn’t work smoothly, the window could be out of square.

Step 2: Inspect the Reveals

A simple and effective way to assess if your windows were installed evenly is to check the reveals. The term “reveal” refers to the visible space between the sash (movable part of the window) and the frame when you open the window. This spacing should be consistent, providing even daylight across the edges. Here’s how to examine it:

• Bottom Sash Test: Open the bottom sash of the window and observe the daylight that comes through. If the installation was done correctly, you should see an equal amount of daylight across the bottom of the window.
• Top Sash Check: For double-hung windows, pull the top sash down and examine the top reveal. Again, an equal line of daylight across the top confirms proper alignment.

Consistent reveals on all sides indicate that the window was installed evenly, reducing the risk of drafts and operational issues down the line.

Step 3: Review Interior and Exterior Caulking

Proper caulking seals the window against water and air intrusion, a vital aspect of energy efficiency. For thorough installation, you should see consistent caulking on both the inside and outside of each window.

• Continuous Bead: Look for a continuous bead of caulk around the edges. Any gaps, cracks, or interruptions in the caulk could lead to moisture problems and air leaks.
• Uniform Application: Check for even caulking around the frame; it should be smooth, without visible bumps or gaps. Quality caulking is not only a sign of good installation but also protects your home from the elements.

Step 4: Monitor for Drafts and Leaks on Windy and Rainy Days

One way to further evaluate if your windows were properly installed is to wait for a rainy or windy day. While it may not be obvious immediately, the first rainstorm or heavy wind can reveal flaws in installation that would otherwise go unnoticed.

• Rain Check: During or after a rainstorm, inspect the areas around your windows for any signs of water intrusion. Small leaks can indicate gaps in caulking or improper sealing around the frame.
• Wind Test: On a windy day, stand near each window and check for drafts. If you feel air coming through, it could be due to misalignment or incomplete sealing. A well-installed window should block out external air effectively.

Step 5: Evaluate Each Window Individually

To complete your inspection, walk through each room where windows were installed and test each one individually. By doing this, you’ll gain confidence in the installation quality of each window.

• Open and Close: Open and close each window, checking for smooth operation. If the window feels tight, sticks, or doesn’t operate with ease, there may be an alignment issue.
• Lock and Unlock: As with the initial lock test, locking and unlocking each window helps confirm that the window fits snugly within the frame.
• Visual Inspection: Take a final look at the caulking, reveals, and any hardware to ensure everything is in place and intact.

In Summary

Checking your windows after installation can be simple and reassuring. Properly installed windows will have aligned locks, consistent reveals, complete caulking, and smooth operation. However, not every potential issue can be detected immediately, so it’s always smart to observe your windows during different weather conditions. With these tips in mind, you can rest assured knowing that your windows were properly installed.

If you notice any issues during your inspection or experience drafts, leaks, or misalignment, contact us. A trustworthy contractor should be willing to address any problems that arise post-installation, ensuring you’re satisfied with the final result.