Last summer, I decided to tackle a window replacement project at home and learned the hard way about measuring twice (or um, three times 😅). One handy tip: make sure you check local building codes. Didn't realize until halfway through that certain windows needed permits in my area...oops. If you've done window replacements yourself, what's something you wish you'd known beforehand?
"Didn't realize until halfway through that certain windows needed permits in my area...oops."
Haha, been there, done that. Another thing I learned the hard way: don't underestimate the importance of flashing and sealing around the windows. It's easy to get caught up in measurements and permits (which are obviously important!), but proper flashing can save you a ton of headaches down the road. I replaced a few windows years ago and thought a bit of caulk would be enough. Fast forward to the next rainy season, and let's just say my living room became an indoor water feature for a day or two...not exactly the home improvement I was aiming for.
Also, if you're replacing older windows, be prepared for surprises lurking behind the frames. I once found insulation that looked like it belonged in a museum exhibit—dusty, crumbly, and definitely not doing its job. So budget some extra time (and patience) for those unexpected detours.
"Fast forward to the next rainy season, and let's just say my living room became an indoor water feature for a day or two..."
Haha, sounds familiar—I once had a client who skipped proper flashing and ended up with mushrooms sprouting near the window frame. Did you run into any mold issues after that?
"Fast forward to the next rainy season, and let's just say my living room became an indoor water feature for a day or two..."
Haha, been there myself. A few years back, I rushed through sealing up a window install at my own place—figured it was "good enough." Next heavy rainstorm, I had towels piled up like sandbags trying to hold back the flood. Thankfully no mushrooms popped up (that's wild!), but I did end up battling mold for weeks afterward. Lesson learned: shortcuts always come back to bite ya...
A few years back, I rushed through sealing up a window install at my own place—figured it was "good enough." Next heavy rainstorm, I had towels piled up like sandbags trying to hold back the floo...
Reading these stories makes me realize I probably dodged a bullet when I replaced mine. I didn't even think about permits or sealing issues at the time—just measured, ordered, and installed. Guess I got lucky because it's been two years without leaks or mold (knock on wood...). But now I'm wondering if there's anything hidden I might've missed. Maybe I'll double-check my seals this weekend just to be safe.
If it's been two years without issues, you're probably fine...but it wouldn't hurt to peek behind the trim and see if there's any sneaky moisture hiding back there. Better safe than sorry, right?
Good point about checking behind the trim—moisture can be sneaky for sure. When I replaced mine, I thought everything looked fine until I pulled off one piece of trim and found some damp insulation tucked away. Glad I caught it early. Speaking of trim, are you planning to reuse yours or go with something new? I ended up switching to vinyl trim—super easy to maintain and looks pretty sharp too.
"Speaking of trim, are you planning to reuse yours or go with something new?"
I'm leaning towards new trim myself. Reusing seems tempting budget-wise, but honestly, vinyl trim sounds like a smarter long-term choice—less hassle and fewer worries about hidden moisture sneaking in again...
I get the appeal of vinyl trim, especially for moisture resistance, but honestly, I've had pretty good luck reusing wood trim. When I replaced my windows a few years back, I carefully removed the old trim, sanded it down, and gave it a fresh coat of paint. It was a bit more work upfront, sure, but it matched the rest of the house perfectly and saved me some cash. Just something to consider if you're up for a little extra elbow grease...
Totally agree with reusing wood trim—it's a solid move if you're careful. One thing I'd add, though: when you're removing the old trim, take your time prying it off. I've seen plenty of folks rush this step and end up splitting the wood or gouging the drywall underneath (been there myself...oops). A thin pry bar and a putty knife combo usually does the trick nicely. Slide the putty knife behind the trim first to protect the wall, then gently work the pry bar in to loosen things up bit by bit.
Also, labeling each piece as you remove it can save you a headache later. Trust me, nothing's worse than playing "trim puzzle" at the end of a long day. And if you're repainting anyway, consider priming both sides of the wood—helps keep moisture out and prevents warping down the road. Little extra effort now, fewer headaches later.