Holloway Consulting Group, LLC
Residential Windows Dispute
Holloway Consulting served as the homeowner’s construction expert witness on this residential windows dispute. Our homeowner client purchased sixteen (16) Anderson E-Series aluminum-clad wood windows, a matching Anderson Sliding door, and ThermaTru side door. The most critical element of any window replacement project is the evaluation of the existing rough openings and measurement for the new windows. Here, lack of care prevented successful window installation. In particular, the poor measurement of the new windows and the failure to evaluate the existing framed openings. Ensuring the framed space is square, level, and plumb is the first step in the Anderson Installation Manual. This condition sets the stage for a successful installation.
The homeowner contracted to install the replacement windows and doors at the supplier’s recommendation. However, problems with the measurement of the windows and the contractor’s refusal to follow the manufacturer’s instructions plagued the installation. After the initial contractor failed to complete the work, the homeowner hired the installer to complete the window installation. Unfortunately, the follow-on installer could not solve the problems initiated by the window sizing and failed to follow industry-standard window installation details properly.
Working as the construction expert witness for the Owner, Holloway has observed and analyzed the window and door installation at the Residence and has found the following:
Holloway’s Findings
- Windows were sized inappropriately for the existing rough openings. As a result, new windows were reordered to prevent future damage to the window assemblies and the home.
- Neither window and door installer followed manufacturer or industry standard installation instructions.
- Contractor’s failure to professionally install the sliding door has resulted in compression of the door, prohibiting smooth operation.
- The contractors’ failure to professionally install the ThermaTru door at the garage prohibits the proper operation of the door.