If you’ve ever sat to look at and consider a window, you may have considered this question: are they installed from the inside? Or the outside? The simple answer: both!
But there’s more nuance depending on what the situation requires. There are a few factors that help determine which way a window installation should start. Some determinants are based on weather, location of the windows, the window type, and the structure. Let’s take a look at what is required for an installation to be done either indoors or outdoors.
Inside Installment
There are a few instances in which a contractor may choose or recommend installing your window from the inside of your house. Let’s look at the reasons why they might make that decision.
1. Location
If the window being replaced is on a second or higher story, it is simply going to be easier to install from the inside. This helps the contractor not have to worry about the risk or impracticality of finding a ladder that is tall or safe enough. It can also be more difficult to bring supplies up to a higher level without the convenience of walking them upstairs and keeping them at the contractor’s feet while they work.
2. Safety or Security
Some buildings are in neighborhoods with higher crime or they are in high security areas. Installing windows from the inside keeps both the installer and the homeowners or business employees safe.
3. Poor Weather
To help keep the supplies in pristine condition and to make things easier on the contractors, inside installation is ideal during bad weather conditions. This can include heavy rainfall, snowfall, hail, lightning storms, or strong winds. Exposure to the elements can damage or ruin the window supplies.
4. Historic or Delicate Windows
If you live in an older home or are installing more delicate windows, it’s best to handle them gently and keep the window supplies inside during installation. Some historic buildings have regulations or a detailed facade so installing the windows indoors is the best option.
5. Replacement
In cases where window panes are being replaced but the original frame is being kept, contractors will opt to install from the inside to more easily fit the pane into place.
Outside Installment
Though there are plenty of reasons why a contractor would install a window from the inside of the house or building, there are more practical reasons to opt for an installation from the outside. This is the more traditional way that a contractor would approach the window work.
1. Type of Window
Unless in specific circumstances with certain window types, most windows are perfectly able to be installed from the outside. Some styles actually require an outdoor installation for ease, like casement windows.
2. New Construction
Outside installation is best for new homes or buildings being constructed. Working from the outside makes it so that windows are able to be sealed correctly and therefore be weatherproof.
3. Flanged Windows
A flanged window has a lip or trip around the edge of the window opening which allows for the window to have a polished look, and can help protect against water and debris. Especially with the use of a nailing flange, it is best to nail it into the wall studs from the outside.
4. Large or Heavy Windows
Because larger windows will have bulkier supplies, like glass panes and framework, it may be easier to navigate the maneuvering from outside. This can also make alignment more doable when setting the window in place.
5. Stucco or Brick Buildings
With certain kinds of buildings, installing from the outside makes more practical sense so as not to damage the exterior. Buildings made from brick or stucco can be more fragile than you would think and an outdoor installation can help the sealing be precise.
Like the nature of windows – hovering between the indoors and outdoors – their installation may sometimes be inside, sometimes be outside. At Creekside Windows and Glass, we are happy to help consult you and help you determine which is best for you in any new construction or replacements you need for your windows.
[author_info]