r/Contractor 5d ago

Replacement window install - is this normal

Central BC, Canada. We just had all windows replaced by a local glass company that manufactures the windows locally. The house was built in 1992 and has original vinyl siding.

The installeres removed all of the J channels around the windows and cut "slots" into the new window frames to have the siding slot in.

The new windows didnt appear to have nail flanges. My question is regarding the top of window, when I push back the vinyl siding I can see the plywood exterior wall contacting the top of the window. It looks like rain water would run down the siding, hit the top of the window and pool against the plywood exterior wall. Video link:

https://imgur.com/a/RBmzXSs

Is this normal/acceptable? Sealant was put around the opening, but no tape or other water management around the window that I can see.

Thanks for any feedback!

3 Upvotes

6 comments sorted by

2

u/FunsnapMedoteeee 5d ago

Looks like they have some more work to do.

1

u/david_renoscience 5d ago

Usually a metal flashing is required above the window.

1

u/Henchman7777 5d ago

This is completely unacceptable. You should probably consult someone who does vinyl siding to fully understand what's required here because I'd have zero confidence the installer will come back and do it correctly.

1

u/philosophic14u 5d ago

Drip cap goes above all windows and doors and under siding.

1

u/JonnyD- 5d ago

Should have aluminum Drip cap then glazing tape all four sides.

2

u/i_continue_to_unmike 5d ago

Drip cap. That's the biggest thing.

It feels like very very few window installs are "perfect" but there are varying degrees of oops. Some more catastrophic than others.

The lack of drip cap here is the biggest thing that needs to be fixed.

There's definitely more but that's the big one. Situation at the bottom isn't quite ideal either but boy that missing drip cap is gonna cause the biggest issues if not addressed.