Expert: Richard Taylor, AIA - 1/23/2008

Question
Mr. Taylor,

I am trying to assist a friend who has been having problems with a leak in her new home.  A roofer who was brought in to look at the problem pointed to a second floor window as being the culprit.

I examined the window, found an identification tag and when I went to the manufacturer's site to try and get more information, I found out the it is a replacement window and not a new construction window.

I have always considered replacement windows to only be appropriate for use when existing window frames were in good condition.  New construction windows have a full frame and nailing flashing, which should help keep out the elements.

So my question is...is it *ever* appropriate to use replacement windows in new construction?

I tried researching this question by myself on the Internet, but everything I have found so far talks to the question of whether or not to use replacement or new construction windows in replacement situations.

Thanks in advance for your comments.

Eli Levine


Answer
Eli - thanks for your question!

You're right, a replacement window doesn't have the nailing fins you find in most new window products; and no, there's no good reason to use a replacement product in new construction.

But that doesn't necessarily mean the window itself is the problem.  More likely it's the lack of or improper flashing around the new window.  Nailing fins on new windows are just that; the unit still needs proper flashing.  It's much easier to install proper flashing in new construction, regardless of the window type.

I think that's your friend's problem.

It's likely that the builder had the window left over from another job and used it there, or got a deal on an unstocked item, or maybe just didn't know what he was doing.  Either way the window needs to be properly flashed.

Hope this helps!

Richard Taylor, AIA
www.rtastudio.com
www.rtaplans.com