Windows Flashcards
What are the two main categories of residential windows?
- New Construction Windows: Feature a nailing fin that integrates directly with the building envelope. 2. Retrofit Windows: Lack a nailing fin and fit inside the existing frame.
How do structural differences affect installation and water management?
New construction windows offer superior water management through full flashing integration while retrofit windows are more prone to leaks due to limited drainage options.
Name and describe the essential parts of a new construction window frame.
- Nailing fin: Perimeter flange for mounting and water management. 2. Window jamb: Vertical sides of frame. 3. Head jamb: Top horizontal frame member. 4. Sill: Bottom horizontal frame member. 5. Rough sill: Structural support beneath window.
What is the purpose of the nailing fin on a new construction window?
The nailing fin serves dual purposes: 1) Structural attachment to building frame. 2) Critical water management - creates flat mounting surface for proper integration with building paper and flashing.
What are the essential waterproofing components in a new construction window installation?
- Self-adhering waterproof membrane. 2. Metal flashing. 3. Building felt/paper. 4. Nailing fin.
What is the proper flashing sequence around a window opening?
Bottom sill first then sides then top - like shingles to shed water down and out.
What is a window jamb and how does it integrate with the wall system?
Vertical frame member that interfaces with rough opening. Must integrate with: Waterproof membrane, Side flashing, Building paper.
What are the critical differences in water management between new construction and retrofit windows in stucco walls?
New Construction: Integrates behind stucco with building paper. Retrofit: Sits on top of stucco.
What is a rough opening in window installation?
The framed opening in the wall where a window will be installed. Must be slightly larger than window unit to allow for leveling and shimming.
What is building felt/paper and why is it critical for window installation?
Weather-resistant barrier behind exterior wall finish that creates the primary waterproof layer.
What is a window sill pan and what is its purpose?
Pre-formed or site-built waterproof tray beneath window that catches any water that penetrates window frame and directs it to exterior.
What is counter flashing and how does it relate to window installation?
Secondary flashing that overlaps primary flashing to ensure proper water shedding.
What is a weep system in window installation and why is it necessary?
A weep system is a designed drainage pathway that allows any water that penetrates the window frame to exit.
How does the nailing fin integration system create a reliable water management barrier?
The nailing fin integration system works as follows: Building paper wraps into the rough opening. The nailing fin attaches to the building paper providing a secure flat surface for flashing.
What is the proper sequence of window flashing installation from bottom to top?
- Sill flashing installs first. 2. Side jamb flashing overlaps sill flashing. 3. Head flashing goes last.
How should building paper/felt integrate with window flashing in proper sequence?
The integration sequence creates a positive water lap: 1. Bottom building paper installs under sill flashing. 2. Side building paper overlaps sill flashing. 3. Head flashing tucks under building paper above.
What are the critical layers in a new construction window installation from exterior to interior?
- Exterior cladding (siding/stucco). 2. Building paper/weather barrier. 3. Window flashing. 4. Nailing fin. 5. Window frame. 6. Interior trim.
What is the proper integration sequence where a window meets a stucco wall?
The integration creates a continuous moisture barrier: 1. Building paper wraps into rough opening. 2. Sill pan flashing installs over paper. 3. Window with nailing fin installs.
How do window components layer to create a proper drainage plane?
Components create overlapping layers for water management: 1. Head flashing diverts water away at top. 2. Jamb flashing channels water to sill.
Why is the window-to-wall intersection in stucco installations prone to water intrusion?
The window-to-wall intersection in stucco installations is vulnerable due to the reliance on multiple overlapping water barriers.
What makes the sill-to-jamb connection critical for water management?
The sill-to-jamb connection is where gravity brings water down the window.
What is the head flashing integration point and why is it vital for the window system’s water management?
The head flashing integration creates the uppermost water defense by combining multiple components.
