Everything You Need to Know About Window Flashing
By: Architectural Visions
Window flashing is an essential part of installing new windows. However, many people aren’t familiar with the process or have never given it much thought. Window flashing is a material installed around a window that protects the window and window frame from water damage, structural damage, mold, and wood rot. Read on to learn more about window flashing and how to ensure your home’s windows are secure against water damage.
Key takeaways:
- Window flashing is installed around windows to protect the home against water damage, mold, and structural damage.
- Window flashing is a thin material that prevents water from entering through a window.
- The primary benefit of window flashing is to prevent water from entering your windows.
- Window flashing is important to protect the integrity of the windows and the house, so relying on a professional’s experience will provide an expert install and offer you peace of mind.
What does window flashing do?
Window flashing is a thin material that prevents water from entering through a window. If a gap forms around a window and water enters, you could face costly repairs due to mildew, rotting wood, and even structural damage.
Different types of window flashing can be applied, and each option is for various types of window. Below are the different kinds of window flashing:
- Drip cap: Designed to fit over the top of a window, the drip cap acts as a canopy to make the water flow outward, preventing it from entering behind the window.
- Flashing tape: Flashing tape fits inside the edge of the window frame to prevent water from seeping in.
- Molded vinyl: Molded vinyl is also known as a sill pan. It fits inside the bottom edge of the window frame and has a slope that directs the water to drain out. Molded vinyl is most commonly used with vinyl windows
What are the benefits of window flashing?
The main benefit of window flashing is preventing water from entering your walls through the windows. Thus, window flashing protects your house and windows from water damage. Installing window flashing is a necessary step, and AVI assures proper and complete installation on all projects to protect your home and windows from water damage.
How is window flashing installed?
Window flashing should be installed in layers. Each layer builds on the other to direct the water down and away from the house. To install window flashing, the process should be done by a professional. Window flashing is important to protect the integrity of the windows and the house, so relying on a professional’s experience will provide an expert install and offer you peace of mind. Whether you hire a professional or you’re confident in your carpentry DIY skills, you may need to pull a permit or have an inspector come to confirm that the installation is up to code. You can confirm this by verifying with your town’s building authority.
Ensure your window flashing is installed professionally by contacting the experts at AVI. AVI is your one-stop shop to browse, select, and install your next aluminum or fiberglass door or window with both in-person and online service options. Please don’t hesitate to contact us online or come by one of our Southeast locations and let us help you!
Learn more about the types of windows AVI Windows & Doors has to offer:
- Your Guide to Double Hung Windows
- Your Guide to Awning Windows
- Your Guide to Bay and Bow Windows
- Your Guide to Picture Windows