You paid good money for new windows, expecting a perfect fit. But if you're dealing with drafts, rising energy bills, water leaks, or windows that don't open and close smoothly, there's a good chance something went wrong during installation.
Poorly installed windows can cause more than just minor frustrations. Small gaps around the frame let in unwanted air, making it harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. If the installer doesn't seal them correctly, moisture can seep in and lead to expensive damage.
The sooner you identify the issue, the easier it is to fix. Whether the repair is a simple reseal, reinstall or in need of a complete replacement, we'll walk you through the most common signs of improper installation and how to correct them before they become more prominent, more expensive problems.
Signs of Improperly Installed Windows and How to Fix Them
Improper installation isn't always visible at first, but minor issues can quickly become more significant headaches. Here's how to tell if the installer didn't install your windows correctly and what you can do to fix them.
Visible Gaps Around the Window Frame
If there are noticeable gaps between your window frame and the wall, the installer didn't complete the installation correctly. These openings allow air leaks, moisture infiltration, and pests to enter your home. Over time, this leads to higher energy bills and potential damage to the surrounding structure.
Gaps often indicate that the window wasn't properly secured or sealed during installation. Water stains, peeling paint, or condensation near the edges may signal that gaps let in moisture. If the frame isn't sitting flush against the wall, it will cause drafts as well.
The best way to address this depends on how the gap's size. In some cases, resealing the area may be enough to close small openings and prevent further air or water leaks. The window may need adjustments to ensure a proper fit for severe gaps. A professional installer can assess the issue and recommend the right solution to restore energy efficiency and protect your home.
Windows are Difficult to Open or Close
New windows should open and close smoothly. If yours feels stuck, jammed, or requires extra force to move, you may need to refit the window.. A poorly fitted window may sit unevenly in the frame, creating misalignment that puts pressure on the tracks or hinges. Over time, this can lead to binding, resistance, and even damage to the weather stripping.
Gaps around the frame, misaligned sashes, or improper shimming can all contribute to operational issues. If the installer didn't level the window correctly during installation, it may shift slightly, making it harder to move. Checking for visible gaps, drafts, or signs of warping can help determine whether the installer completed the installation correctly. Fixing this may require realigning the window within its frame or adjusting the shims to ensure proper balance. If the problem persists, a professional installer can assess whether a complete reinstall is needed to restore smooth operation.
Drafts and Increased Energy Bills
If your home feels colder in the winter or hotter in the summer, no matter how much you adjust the thermostat, your windows could be the problem. Drafts creeping in around the edges and rising energy bills are clear signs that your windows aren't sealing properly.
When installers fail to install a window correctly, even the most minor gaps around the frame let outside air flow and conditioned air escape. That forces your HVAC system to work harder, driving up energy costs while making it challenging to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
You can often feel drafts by placing your hand near the edges of the window on a windy day. If you notice a slight breeze or fluctuating temperatures in certain rooms, air could be leaking through. Other warning signs include uneven caulking, condensation between the panes, or visible gaps where the window meets the wall.
Water Leaks and Moisture Damage
If you're noticing water stains, peeling paint, or damp spots around your windows, moisture is likely getting in where it shouldn't. Leaks can stem from gaps in the frame, improper sealing, or issues with your siding or roof. When installers fail to install a window correctly, they may miss or misalign the flashing, allowing rainwater to seep behind the siding and into your walls.
Caulking gaps or a misaligned frame can create small openings where water slowly infiltrates, leading to potential long-term structural damage. Sometimes, clogged drainage holes in the window sill prevent proper runoff, causing water to pool and eventually leak inside.
Before assuming the window itself is the issue, scan the area. Check for gaps in sealant, damaged flashing, or signs of water pooling near the frame. If leaks persist but the window appears intact, the problem may lie in the surrounding exterior. In more severe cases, contractors may need to remove drywall or siding to find the source. A professional window installer or contractor can assess the situation and determine whether resealing, better drainage, or a more extensive repair is needed to keep moisture out for good.
Improper Insulating Foam Application
Insulating foam helps seal gaps and improve energy efficiency, but it can do more harm than good when misapplied. Using too much, especially high-expansion foam, can put pressure on the window frame, making it hard to open or close. Too little or uneven application leaves gaps where air seeps in and moisture collects, leading to energy loss and potential damage over time. A poorly sealed window doesn't just impact comfort. It forces your heating and cooling system to work harder, driving up energy costs.
The insulation foam may be the culprit if your window sticks, won't close properly, or feels drafty near the edges. Fixing this requires removing the interior trim, clearing the old foam, and applying a controlled amount of low-expansion foam for a proper seal. Once it sets, installers can reinstall the trim, ensuring a clean finish without interfering with the window's function. If the frame has already warped from excessive pressure, an expert may need to assess and make additional adjustments to restore smooth operation.
Condensation Between Window Panes
If you notice fogging or moisture trapped between your window panes, the seal between the glass has failed. Seal failure usually happens when the sealant isn't applied correctly during installation, air and moisture seeps between the panes. Once the seal is compromised, the insulating gas escapes, making the window far less energy efficient and fluctuating temperatures in the home.
If this happens shortly after installation, poor fitting or improper sealing is likely the cause. Over time, this can lead to higher energy bills and reduced insulation. Unfortunately, simple repairs can't fix broken seals. If the fogging persists, a professional should assess whether to replace the window or check if warranty coverage applies. Checking for other installation issues, like gaps around the frame or drafts, can help determine if additional problems affect your window's performance.
Too Much or Too Little Caulking
Caulking creates a seamless seal between the window frame and the wall, creating a protective shield for unwanted elements entering your home. When done right, it's barely noticeable. A poor repair job can cause energy loss, water damage, and an overall sloppy appearance.
If there isn't enough caulk, gaps remain, allowing air leaks that make it harder to regulate indoor temperatures. Moisture can also creep in, leading to mold, peeling paint, and potential wood rot around the frame. On the other hand, too much caulk affects how your home's envelope interacts with atmospheric changes. Excess buildup can create uneven pressure points, making it harder for the window to function correctly.
Fixing a bad caulking job is straightforward. If the application is uneven, peeling, or missing in spots, removing it and starting fresh is best. A clean, even layer ensures the window sits securely and blends smoothly with the frame. While caulk helps with sealing, the insulating foam behind the trim does most of the heavy lifting for energy efficiency.
Crooked or Uneven Windows
A window that isn't level can lead to air leaks, water infiltration, and difficulty opening or closing the sash. If the frame sits unevenly within the wall opening, it may create visible gaps, misalignment in the sash, or improper sealing that affects both function and energy efficiency. Poor installation is often the cause, especially when installers fail to place shims or secure the frame properly.
Fixing a crooked window requires removing the interior trim, adjusting the shims, and ensuring the frame is properly aligned. Complete removal and reinstallation may be necessary in more severe cases, but installers can often complete the job using the existing window if the product isn't defective. A manufacturer warranty replacement might be an option if the frame is warped or out of square.
Windows Installed Upside Down
An upside-down window sounds like an obvious mistake, but believe it or not, it happens more often than you'd think. This issue is common with operable windows, where placement matters for function and airflow. A casement window, for example, may swing in the wrong direction, or a sliding window might struggle to open correctly. Even if it technically fits within the frame, an incorrect orientation prevents proper drainage, increasing the risk of water infiltration and long-term damage.
Spotting this mistake is easier when similar windows are nearby for comparison. Misaligned latches, awkward operation, or airflow moving in the wrong direction are signs of an upside-down installation. Fixing it requires removing the window and reinstalling it in the correct orientation. While it may seem like a simple swap, improper handling during removal can lead to seal damage or alignment issues, so professional correction is often the best approach to prevent further complications.
Fix Improperly Installed Windows with US Window and Door
Window installation mistakes are more common than most homeowners realize, and even minor issues can lead to drafts, water leaks, and poor energy efficiency. Addressing these signs can prevent costly damage and keep your home comfortable year-round.
If you've noticed any of these signs, it's time to take action. US Window & Door has over 36 years of experience installing windows correctly the first time. From identifying installation flaws to providing expert solutions, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free estimate, and let's ensure your Milgard windows are secure, energy-efficient, and built to last.
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