That’s exactly it—doesn’t matter how many panes or coatings you’ve got if the installer rushes through the prep. I’ve been called in to “fix” high-end windows that were basically useless because someone skipped flashing tape or didn’t bother leveling the sill. It’s wild how a $4 tube of caulk can make or break a $1,000 window.
One thing I always tell people: watch out for those shortcuts, especially with expanding foam. Too much and you’ll warp the frame, too little and you get those drafts you’re talking about. I’ve even seen folks forget to insulate around the header, which just dumps cold air right behind your trim.
Honestly, sometimes the best money spent is on a crew that takes their time and actually checks their work. Fancy glass is only as good as what’s holding it in place… and yeah, sometimes the “boring” stuff like shims and weather barriers are what really keep your house comfortable.
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve seen “energy efficient” windows lose all value because the crew skipped air sealing or got sloppy with the foam. Happened in my last house—drafts everywhere, even with triple-pane glass. It’s wild how the details matter way more than the sticker price.
It’s wild how the details matter way more than the sticker price.
I didn’t realize that until I watched my neighbor’s install. They spent extra on fancy windows, but the crew barely used any sealant. Is there a way to check if air sealing was done right after they finish?
Is there a way to check if air sealing was done right after they finish?
- Quick way: hold a lighter or incense stick near the window edges on a windy day—watch for smoke movement.
- Feel with your hand for drafts, especially at corners.
- Sometimes you can see gaps if you look closely at the trim or caulking.
Honestly, I’ve seen pricey windows installed badly and cheap ones sealed up tight. Details really do matter more than the brand or price tag...
Details really do matter more than the brand or price tag...
Couldn’t agree more—seen “top tier” windows leak like crazy just from sloppy caulking. I usually recommend checking outside after a rain too, especially under the sill. Sometimes water finds its way in even if you can’t feel drafts. Ever notice how some installers just rush the trim and call it done? That’s where problems sneak in...
You nailed it—attention to detail is everything. I had a guy install windows for me a couple years back, and sure enough, the fancy brand didn’t mean squat when he rushed the trim and left gaps. Ended up with water stains under the sill after just one storm. Ever since, I always double-check their work before they leave... feels a bit picky, but it’s saved me headaches. Nice to see I’m not the only one who thinks the “little stuff” matters more than the label or price tag.
- Been there... had a guy “finish” my bathroom window and left a gap big enough for a drafty breeze (and a few spiders).
- Now I hover like a hawk during installs.
- People think I’m picky, but hey, I’d rather annoy the crew than mop up leaks later.
That’s exactly why I’m hands-on with every contractor now. After my last window install, I found they’d skipped flashing on one side—just a bead of caulk and called it “sealed.” I get that hovering can annoy some crews, but honestly, if you don’t double-check their work, you’re the one paying for repairs down the line. It’s not being picky, it’s just protecting your investment. The devil’s in the details—especially with windows. Even a tiny gap can turn into a major headache, especially in older homes where nothing’s ever quite square.
I get that hovering can annoy some crews, but honestly, if you don’t double-check their work, you’re the one paying for repairs down the line.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had better luck when I step back a bit and let the crew do their thing. The last time I hovered, I felt like it just put everyone on edge and led to some rushed work. Maybe it’s just about finding a contractor you can trust and making expectations clear up front? Still, I totally agree about old houses—nothing’s ever square and it’s never as simple as “just put in a window.”
Maybe it’s just about finding a contractor you can trust and making expectations clear up front?
I get why folks want to step back, but honestly, I’ve seen both sides of this. When homeowners are totally hands-off, sometimes little details slip—especially on older houses where nothing lines up and every window opening is a new surprise. I’m not saying hover over every move, but a bit of back-and-forth during the job can actually help avoid misunderstandings.
One time, a client just left us to it, and we found some weird framing behind the old trim. If she hadn’t checked in mid-way, we might’ve finished up with a less-than-perfect fit. Communication is huge—clear expectations, yes, but also being available if questions pop up.
Old houses especially… you never know what you’re gonna find once you pull that first piece of siding. Sometimes “just put in a window” turns into “rebuild half the wall.” It’s a balancing act—trust your crew, but don’t disappear either.