Home Renovation Inspections: Navigating the Unforeseen with Ecoline Windows

Renovation projects, while exciting, often come with their own set of challenges and surprises. As a home inspector, my recent experiences working with Ecoline Windows have underscored the unpredictable nature of renovations, particularly when it comes to window installations. This past month, we’ve encountered some significant issues during two separate projects that highlight the importance of thorough home renovation inspections. Homeowners need to be prepared for unforeseen conditions. Check out the videos below to see what I mean. 

Window Installations in Renovation Projects

Integration with Existing Structures: Installing new windows in a renovation requires careful consideration of the existing building framework. This often involves customizing the new windows to fit into pre-existing openings, which may not be perfectly square or level due to the home’s age or settling over time.

Unexpected Challenges: Renovation projects can reveal hidden issues once old windows are removed. For instance, damage such as rot, mold, or pest infestations around the window frames may be uncovered. Any of these can necessitate additional repairs before the new windows can be installed properly.

Living Conditions: Window installations during a renovation in an occupied home can be disruptive. Homeowners must contend with noise, dust, and potential security concerns while the old windows are removed and the new ones are fitted. Complications in the installation process only make these concerns more of a nuisance by extending the renovation timeline. Clear communication with the installation team can help minimize inconvenience.

Case Study 1: The Rotted Window Sill Over a Jetted Tub

In our first home renovation inspection this past month, we uncovered a severely rotted window sill resting above a jetted tub. The combination of high humidity levels and moisture from the tub, along with Calgary’s cold climate had accumulated over 25-30 years to take their toll on the framing. The initial problem stemmed from a poorly sealed window, and a lack of exhaust ventilation in the space. Moisture had been permitted to penetrate the sill and surrounding structure over the years. This moisture, combined with fluctuating temperatures, led to the wood rotting almost entirely.

Upon uncovering this issue, Ecoline Windows knew that further remedial work would be required before proceeding with the window replacement. They removed damaged insulation from the wall and removed the rotted-out sill framing. Before bringing in the new window, a fresh sill was cut and installed in place of the old one. While replacements for the immediate framing were readily available, another contractor would still need to address the damages noted to the exterior sheathing and insulation.

TECHNICAL INSIGHTS:

Moisture and Humidity: Bathrooms, especially those with jetted tubs or showers, produce significant amounts of moisture. Without proper ventilation and sealing, this moisture can seep into window frames and sills, leading to rot.

Sealing and Insulation: Proper sealing around windows is crucial to prevent moisture ingress. This involves using high-quality caulking and ensuring the window is installed flush with the wall to prevent gaps. Updated window installations that form airtight seals and use low-expansion spray foam will hold up better under these conditions.

TIPS TO AVOID SIMILAR ISSUES:

Regular Maintenance: Inspect and reseal windows regularly, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to manage humidity levels in your home. Consider installing exhaust fans if necessary. In older homes, it’s common that the window provides the sole means of ventilation. However, for half the year in Calgary, we’re getting zero ventilation because it’s too frigid outside to be opening any windows.

Use of Quality Materials: Spend the extra few dollars on moisture-resistant materials for window sills and frames, especially in bathrooms.

Case Study 2: The Less Predictable Patio Door Removal

For our second home renovation inspection, a sliding patio door removal was the culprit that unveiled significant rot and deterioration. After removing the door, we found that the damage extended beyond the framed opening. Here it potentially affected the internal wall structure and floor joists as well. Additionally, we discovered a heavy insect infestation, likely attracted by the damp and decaying wood. This situation required pest control intervention and additional contractors to address the structural damage before Ecoline could proceed with the new door installation. In the homeowner’s case, we were lucky it was peak heat wave weather during the Stampede. Being short a door wasn’t going to be overly compromising to the building structure in that weather.

Compared to the window sill issue, snow accumulation was the most likely external factor that made this damage worse. In Calgary, snow piling up against homes and melting can introduce water into areas not designed to handle moisture, particularly if there’s no covered entry or canopy to protect the threshold. The continuous tracking of snow in and out of the house further contributes to the problem.

In this instance, the scope of work and the damages grew beyond what Ecoline was equipped for or contracted to repair. The level of remediation here required additional independent contractors to complete further repair work before Ecoline could complete their installation. As a homeowner, it’s important for you to understand that there is a degree of unpredictability when you begin renovations. With that, it’s important to also understand who takes responsibility for unforeseen conditions. In this case, Ecoline uncovered the problem, but this isn’t a problem they could have predicted or accounted for. They were unable to factor this into the cost of window replacements. As this work is beyond the area they specialize in, they acknowledged that the appropriate course of action next was for the homeowners to seek out other Calgary professional home service providers to take on this additional scope of work.

TECHNICAL INSIGHTS:

Snow and Ice: In climates like Calgary’s, snow accumulation can lead to water ingress if the area around windows and doors isn’t properly managed. This is particularly true for patio doors, which are at ground level and more susceptible to water intrusion.

Structural Damage: Water damage can compromise the integrity of the framing and subfloor, leading to more extensive and costly repairs.

TIPS TO AVOID SIMILAR ISSUES:

Snow Management: Regularly clear snow away from your home’s foundation and doorways. Consider installing a canopy or covered entry to protect these areas.

Inspect and Address: Routinely inspect areas around doors and windows for signs of moisture or insect activity. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Use Treated or Rot-Resistant Materials: Consider using pressure-treated or rot-resistant wood in areas susceptible to moisture.

The General Nature of Home Renovations and Roles of Contractors

Renovations often reveal hidden problems that are not apparent until the work begins. In both cases described, the scope of work expanded beyond initial expectations due to the discovery of significant damage. This unpredictability is a common aspect of renovations, especially in older homes where wear and tear, previous repairs, and environmental factors contribute to unforeseen issues.This is why it’s encouraged to have home renovation inspection on any project – in this case a window installation inspection. An inspector brings in a third party perspective who’s looking at the project holistically, beyond one contractor’s specific scope.

Understanding Roles and Responsibilities

Homeowner Responsibility: Homeowners should be prepared for additional costs and work when unforeseen issues arise. This includes understanding who will address these issues—whether it’s hiring additional contractors or working with specialists for specific problems like pest control.

Clear Communication: Maintaining clear communication with your contractors about potential issues and responsibilities can help manage expectations and ensure that any unforeseen problems are handled efficiently.