Pros/cons for who does window installation

10 years ago

last modified: 10 years ago

I can have GC install the windows, or have it done by the regional dealer for Loewen windows. What are pros/cons?

New modern home with about 37 windows from 3/0 5/0 casements to 7 mulled units @ with > 50 SF of glazing; only one 6/0 sliding door. All are metal clad wood windows. House is in high desert area of Oregon.

GC is very competent and I expect he or Loewen dealer would each do a good installation. I have not gotten any pricing from either on installation labor.

Perhaps it is reading too much on this forum, but while one expects/hopes not to have window problems on day 1 or year 3 or year 10, it'd be nice to have more confidence, and to have good service when needed. Also nice to avoid finger-pointing. GC lives close to job site; Loewen dealer is based 2.5 hours away in Portland, so that is huge difference.

GC is heading toward retirement, and is small, build one house at a time type operation. Loewen dealer is larger, has deeper pockets, supplies a lot of product to the Bend, Oregon area; would be where I'd contact for any warranty issues; and if they do installation have less wiggle room to point fingers.

I have very good relationship with GC, and don't think he'd be insulted by my considering having dealer do installation; and might welcome not having to deal with windows. He has only worked with Loewen windows once several years ago, but installation as far as I know will not be different from doing high end Pella, or Marvin windows.

I guess my ideal would be (assuming similar cost) to have Loewen dealer install things, with understanding that they'd consider having GC be paid for any after day 1 minor adjustments that might be needed.

How would you approach this?

P.S. Also would consider having Loewen dealer just do the large mulled units which are the most expensive; heaviest, and perhaps most vulnerable to problems.

Featured Answer

PRO

HomeSealed Exteriors, LLC

10 years ago

I'd agree with Master on that. A window installer can't sign off that the RO was framed properly. That said, this is a concern that comes up pretty much never. The window installers themselves will be responsible for establishing the proper drainage plane with caulked and taped nail fins, integration into wrb/housewrap, etc. The siders will generally install the head flashing after that, so there is a little bit of overlapping responsibility there, however the window installation should be leak proof for all intents and purposes based solely on the window installers' work with little regard to the work before or after.

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Comments (7)

PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
10 years ago
Is he even installing them with in-house labor or is he having someone else do it?
lite1 thanked Windows on Washington Ltd
PRO
User
10 years ago
last modified: 10 years ago
Usually a guy that does windows on a daily basis will install the window much better/ air tight. The local handyman or family friend never seem to do it correctly.

Thats just the way it goes.
lite1 thanked User
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lite1
Original Author
10 years ago
If GC, did things it'd be with his own core carpentry crew. Agree with @Master that some one whose bread and butter is windows is likely to be more skilled at installation, and probably quicker even without cutting any corners.
PRO
HomeSealed Exteriors, LLC
10 years ago
Sounds like a pretty easy decision when looked at from a purely objective perspective.

One option reduces the number of parties involved for improved accountability and less finger-pointing should issues arise, specializes in window installation all day everyday, has a high level of familiarity with the intricacies of the given product, and also has an established weight with the manufacturer/supplier that can get things done, again, should issues arise.

It checks all of the boxes IMO to ensure to best possible installation and best service in when something is needed. The distance is a slight concern, but I'd say it is pretty well outweighed by the other points.
lite1 thanked HomeSealed Exteriors, LLC
lite1
Original Author
10 years ago
last modified: 10 years ago
@HomeSealed I agree with your assessment of pros/cons for the two alternatives. The one factor I do not yet know about is cost, but unless Loewen dealer installation is a good deal more money, I agree the decision seems clear. Thanks again.

P.S. I think as an added protection for myself and to reduce even further any finger pointing; I will ask Loewen installer crew to sign-off on the fact that the preparation of the rough opening had been done properly by GC.
PRO
User
10 years ago
They might not sign off on that since they didnt create the opening.