How to find a certified professional and avoid installation problems

Matt here; hi everyone! We’re handing over the blog today to Aaron Bloom of the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance. He’ll share an important point about efficient windows: they won’t be efficient if you skimp on installation. Read on to learn how to avoid that problem and get the best performance from your high-performance windows. 

While purchasing the most expensive windows and doors on the market may seem like a good way to increase your home’s value and save on energy costs, poorly installed products may end up costing more in the long run. More specifically, mistakes made during the window installation can lead to a number of issues.

  • Loss of energy savings from high-performing products, costing you more on energy bills
  • Improper operation and function, requiring repeat service calls
  • Issues with air infiltration and water penetration, potentially causing damage to your home

That’s why window and door replacement and installation should be left to qualified and knowledgeable installers. Installation can be complicated, and manufacturers’ installation instructions couldn’t possibly detail how to handle the wide variety of job site and field conditions that differ from the ideal. Also, many manufacturers’ warranties don’t cover installation, meaning it is the installer’s responsibility to stand behind their work.

There is an old adage in the fenestration and glazing industry: A window is only as good as its installation. When homeowners have a complaint about a product’s performance, it is often the case that improper installation is at the root of the problem. Just how important is hiring a qualified installer? Let’s take a look at some reasons for finding the right person for the job.

  • Higher customer satisfaction. To ensure satisfaction with your products down the road, hire an expert installer who will get the job done right, the first time.
  • Cost savings. Working with an installer who understands industry-accepted best practices can help resolve installation issues before they even occur, saving you time and money.
  • Knowledge is power. It is critical that installers are trained and educated to understand the best practices for window and door installation.

In order to be effective, installers must be well-trained on numerous topics related to the installation of both new and replacement windows and doors. This training should focus on understanding the various types of windows and doors, their performance, the materials and accessories required for proper installation, and how these products integrate into your home. A great installer is well-versed in subjects that range from initial site inspection to final cleaning and maintenance of the installed product.

To this end, FGIA offers a well-respected education program geared toward improving the installation of windows and doors. Since the InstallationMasters® Training and Certification Program’s inception, thousands of industry professionals have become certified. Completion of the program and successful passing of the test allows participants to earn the InstallationMasters Identification Card, which shows they are officially certified.

Although the manufacturer’s instructions should always take precedence, you can feel good about hiring a certified InstallationMasters installer, knowing that they understand industry-accepted best practices. Learn more at InstallationMasters.com and find a certified installer near you.

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Written by: Aaron Blom, FGIA Technical Training Specialist