No money down, 0% financing options available!
View Financing
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
6371 Rolling Mill Place, Springfield, VA 22152
  • About
  • Areas Served
  • FAQs
  • Financing
  • Blog
  • Gallery
  • Testimonials
  • Contact
Adelphia Exteriors

Adelphia Exteriors

Northern VA Roofing, Siding & Window Contractors

  • Roofing
    • Installation
    • Replacement
  • Siding
    • Installation
    • Replacement
  • Windows
    • Installation
    • Replacement
  • Other
    • Commercial
    • Garage Doors
    • Gutters
    • Insulation
    • Painting
    • Storm Damage
    • Warranties
  • Speak To An Exterior Home ContractorCall Today: (703) 386-7357
  • Resources
    • About
    • Blog
    • FAQs
    • Testimonials

Why To Avoid A DIY Window Installation

August 9, 2021

man in a blue shirt does window installationYou may need to replace your home windows if they start to look outdated and worn down, do not open and shut properly, lead to higher energy costs, or you simply want to update the windows to achieve better curb appeal. However, in order to maximize the benefits you receive from new windows, it is important to avoid a DIY window installation and hire a professional window contractor. This review discusses eight reasons why you should avoid a DIY window installation.

8 Reasons To Avoid A DIY Window Installation

A DIY window installation is rarely a good idea. Some of the more commonly reported issues that homeowners have after attempting to install their new windows without professional help include personal injury, unidentified problems with the home’s siding and foundation, a long and energy-draining process, and damage during installation that leads to costly repairs.

Homeowners often have issues with energy costs, curb appeal, window function, and warranty coverage when windows are not properly installed. The following is an in-depth review of each reason why it is strongly encouraged to avoid a DIY window installation.

1. There Is A Risk Of Injury For Homeowners

There are many ways in which personal injury could result from a DIY window installation. Professional window contractors go through extensive training to ensure the optimal safety of window installation. Homeowners, of course, do not have the training necessary. Common injuries that can occur from a DIY window installation include:

  • Injury from falling from a ladder or scaffolding;
  • Getting cut by sharp glass when removing old windows; and
  • Jamming or breaking a finger when installing the new windows.

Of course, the above examples are just a few ways of many in which an injury could occur. A professional contractor can adequately assess the risks involved and have the proper equipment and safety training to minimize the risk of injury to themselves.

They are also adequately insured to cover the cost of any injuries or property damage that occur, whereas individual health or homeowner insurance policies may not cover the medical costs or costs of repairing damaged property from a DIY window installation.

2. Window And Exterior Related Problems Are Often Missed

Windows are far more complex than many homeowners realize. The fact is many homeowners are not able to adequately assess the condition of all aspects of windows, which could lead to important problems going undetected. There are several components to home windows.

windows exterior issuesIn addition to glass, other features such as frames, insulation, drywall, exterior siding and more play a role in the installation process. If there are issues with one or more of these components, then it could lead to complications.

To give an example, a homeowner may choose to replace their windows to make their home more energy-efficient. In general, replacing outdated or damaged windows that cause drafts is a great way to reduce monthly energy costs.

However, the homeowner may find that their energy costs are just as high after DIY window installation if insulation issues are not detected and properly addressed during installation, a problem that could otherwise be detected when choosing professional window installation.

3. High Repair And Energy Costs Long-Term

DIY window installation often leads to the need for more frequent repairs as issues that are not addressed initially can worsen. Minor concerns such as a window that sticks while opening and closing are far more likely with DIY window installation as well. On the other hand, a professional installation ensures optimal function and appearance for your windows.

As mentioned, windows also play a huge role in the energy efficiency of your home. Windows that are not able to shut properly or have damaged components can lead to a draft that allows outdoor air to come into your home and air from your HVAC unit to exit.

Of course, this can have a significant impact on monthly energy costs. DIY window installation does not always address the underlying cause of the draft, whereas a window professional can ensure the windows are installed for optimal energy efficiency.

4. A Time-Draining Process And Slow Progress

Many homeowners who attempt DIY window installation are surprised by how long it takes. What may seem like an easy weekend project often turns into something that takes weeks and cuts into the homeowner’s free time. This is particularly true for homeowners that do not have any experience with window installation and do not have the adequate tools and resources available.

On the other hand, a certified window installer can complete jobs in as little as a day, saving the homeowner the time and frustration that is often involved with DIY window installation.

5. There Is A Risk Of Costly Damage During Installation

There are many things that could go wrong during window installation, such as dropping and breaking the glass or hitting a plumbing line. Any setbacks not only make the project take longer, but they can also become incredibly costly. Licensed and insured contractors stand behind their work and are able to cover the costs of any damage that occurs during installation.

Homeowner insurance, however, is not likely to cover repair costs related to a DIY window installation. This means the homeowner is taking a financial risk if they choose to forego professional assistance and install windows themselves.

6. Less Desirable Curb Appeal Due To Limited Materials

windows construction materialWhen you choose a full-service window company, they can help you through the entire window replacement process. This includes choosing the right type of windows based upon your preference and specific measurements, framing and other needs.

One benefit of hiring a professional window contractor is that they can offer a range of window colors and styles. They also understand how the finished product will look on your home and can make professional recommendations as to which option is best to achieve ideal curb appeal.

7. The Potential Loss Of Warranty Coverage

As mentioned previously, professional window installers stand behind their work and can cover the cost of any damage that occurs during the installation process. This includes any damage that occurs to the windows, framing, insulation, siding, etc. On the other hand, homeowner insurance is not likely to cover these costs if the homeowner attempts DIY window installation.

This can lead to the homeowner having to pay the entire amount of the repairs out of their own pocket. In some cases, this can cost thousands, so hiring a professional contractor is often the safer financial choice.

8. Poor Window Function Due To Improper Installation

Windows are there for more than aesthetic appeal; they also serve an important functional purpose as well. Windows allow natural light to shine through and give the homeowner the opportunity to open them and allow a natural breeze to enter the home. When they are closed, windows should shut tightly without letting any outdoor air inside the home.

If windows are not properly installed, which could occur due to improper measurements, misalignment, framing concerns, and many other potential issues, then it could lead to concerns such as high energy costs, an inability to open and close them as desired and water damage inside the home.

A professional installer can ensure these concerns are minimized and help ensure the manufacturer’s warranty coverage is not voided to further minimize the homeowner’s financial risk.

The Benefits Of A Professional Window Installation

The installation process is important to ensure the ideal level of benefits are achieved long-term. Many of the benefits provided by professional installation are not available with DIY window installation. Notably, the benefits include:

  • The use of high-quality materials;
  • A faster installation process;
  • Reliable, high-quality results;
  • A manufacturer’s warranty;
  • Reduced energy costs;
  • Long-lasting durability; and
  • Increased aesthetic appeal.

A misconception is that DIY window installation saves the homeowner money. In some cases, this may be true. However, all too often it leads to the homeowner paying more money as they must purchase the necessary tools and equipment to complete the project, and they may experience costly setbacks along the way.

This is in addition to the amount of time it takes to complete the DIY project alone. With professional installation, the homeowner can sit back and enjoy the experience of replacing their old or damaged windows with a new and beautiful set.

A professional installer can also ensure that the maximum level of aesthetic benefit your new windows provide is achieved, and they can help reduce the monthly energy costs as much as possible, thereby ensuring the longevity of your new and improved windows.

When Should I Consider Professional Window Installation?

workers using electric screwdriver for window installation indoorsOf course, new construction homes need professional window installation. For window replacement, warranties typically last between 15 and 25 years, which is right around the amount of time they are expected to remain in good condition. Windows that are more than 25 years old likely require replacement to ensure optimal quality.

Early window replacement may be a good idea if you start to notice unexplained increases in your monthly energy costs, if the windows begin to stick when opening and closing, or if you want to improve the curb appeal of your home, among other possible reasons. The best way to determine if window replacement is right for you is to schedule a window inspection with a professional contractor.

Get In Touch With The Window Professionals At Adelphia Exteriors

Adelphia Exteriors offers window installation services for Northern Virginia homeowners. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of window installation or are ready to begin your window replacement or installation for a new construction, then contact our professional and experienced contractors at Adelphia Exteriors today.

category iconWindows

Primary Sidebar

Best Price Guarantee!

Reach out today to get your free home estimate.

Adelphia Exteriors BBB Accredited Business with A+ rating
19 Reviews (5.0)
Google Logo linking to Adelphia Exteriors business profile
144 Reviews (4.8)
Adelphia Exteriors Home Advisor Top Rated
64 Reviews (4.6)
  • Drop files here or
    Max. file size: 100 MB.
    • Hidden
      MM slash DD slash YYYY
    • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

    Footer

    Adelphia Logo
    6371 Rolling Mill Place
    Springfield, VA 22152
    M-F, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
    License #: VA2705137588
    (703) 386-7357

    Resources

    • About
    • Areas Served
    • FAQs
    • Financing
    • Blog
    • Gallery
    • Testimonials
    • Contact

    Exterior Remodeling Services

    • Roofing
    • Siding
    • Windows
    • Gutters
    • Insulation
    • Painting
    • Commercial
    • Storm Damage
    Google Rating
    4.8
    Adelphia Exteriors
    Adelphia Exteriors
    4.8
    Della Rodrigues
    Della Rodrigues
    20:22 20 Sep 21
    Adelphia Exteriors did a great job of replacing several of our windows. They were polite, quick, professional, and the new windows look great! Highy recommend their services.read more
    Matt Driskill
    Matt Driskill
    17:02 21 Jun 22
    Adelphia redid my attic insulation. Couldn't be more pleased with their work and service! Christos was an absolute pleasure to work with every step of the way!!! The actual work was fast. Only an hour or so. Christos came back by to inspect the work and sang an Opera song for myself and my daughter. Was a job well done, and a performance that we will remember forever. Will absolutely be calling Adelphia back in the future : )read more
    -silly vibes- Silly vibes squad
    -silly vibes- Silly vibes squad
    21:17 06 Jun 22
    We had 11 oversized windows replaced by Adelphia. Throughout the entire experience, from the first estimate to the final project, we we extremely happy with the process. Adelphia kept us brilliantly informed at all stages and all of the people who completed the work were very professional, knowledgeable, and polite. The crew who completed the actual replacement were a wonderful group. The showed up early on day of installation and finished amazing quickly. I highly recommend Adelphia.read more
    Endroo
    Endroo
    17:55 03 Jun 22
    got windows and new sliding door installed. Adelphia Exteriors provided a financing option which was nice. I would say I'm pretty confident that I'd use them again for my housing exterior needs.read more
    Justin Boggess
    Justin Boggess
    22:50 23 May 22
    Had old insulation removed with new insulation blown in to my attic. Company was great to deal with. They were responsive and quickly responded to questions I had mid-install. The crews they brought in were on-time, efficient, and did a nice job. Would easily work with this company again.read more
    Anastasios Tetradis
    Anastasios Tetradis
    15:18 20 May 22
    We just recently employed this company to install siding on our upper storey. I have to say the service and product install was outstanding. George and Tim went out of their way to make sure all details of the install were complete including cleanup, and took their time to attend to details. They stayed over to finish one large side so my family were not inconvenienced next day with the banging. Tim kept me informed of status and invited viewing of progress. George was patient and meticulous. Both were focused on doing a great job and it shows. Neighbours have also been outside to praise their work. George kept me up to date and the job moving- I knew I could rely on him if a problem occurred, but that didn’t happen. Chris has to be included too as part of the team, because his no-pressure sales pitch is why I chose the company. Thank you for the great experience with your company and work ethics of your team- it has made a huge difference to our property and I may add our lives.read more
    John Blevins
    John Blevins
    16:11 22 Mar 22
    We had siding and gutters installed. Great company with awesome customer service. Would use them again for anything I need on the exterior of my house.read more
    Luke Waldron
    Luke Waldron
    11:14 01 Mar 22
    Highly recommend using them! I hired them to blew in insulation to my attic and I am amazed with the results. They were courteous, thorough, followed thru, and communicated.read more
    Ryan Boyle
    Ryan Boyle
    20:11 14 Sep 21
    Everything went smoothly. They only needed one day to replace all our windows.
    Carl Ficken
    Carl Ficken
    13:42 30 Dec 21
    We were extremely pleased with Adelphia Exteriors. Once our sliding glass door and windows arrived from the manufacturer, Adelphia scheduled installation the next day. Workers arrived early, worked hard, did a fantastic job, and cleaned up. Highly recommend.read more
    Catherine Cox
    Catherine Cox
    01:23 02 Nov 21
    This was our 4th project with Adelphia Exteriors. Last year they replaced all our windows; replaced the original vinyl siding; and replaced our original gutters and downspouts. This year we asked them to come back to replace our 24-year old roof shingles that had become stained and looked terrible alongside all the other new exterior features. Once again Adelphia did a wonderful job at a competitive price. They went the extra mile to make sure that we found the particular color and style of shingle that we wanted to match the siding work they the had done in 2020. Adelphia is a family-run business that is committed to making sure their customers are completely satisfied. I would highly recommend them for any of your exterior home improvement needs.read more
    Hans Lellelid
    Hans Lellelid
    20:10 18 Oct 21
    We used Adelphia to replace our windows. We had a few estimates and while the VinylMax windows may not have been quite as premium as the other option we were seriously considering, the product got great reviews and Adelphia in particular was highly reviewed and left a great impression. And pricing was very competitive too. The windows arrived before predicted and installation started exactly when scheduled and wrapped up ahead of schedule. The installer did a great job of cleaning up afterwards and accommodating our tiny house that doesn't necessarily allow for all furniture to be far from windows at the same time :) Definitely would use them for other projects in the future.read more
    Kevin Stone
    Kevin Stone
    20:31 21 Sep 21
    Great service and price for new windows in my home. Major renovation project and Adelphia Exteriors was only window company willing to give me a ballpark estimate with me giving estimated window sizes and them not seeing the house, so I could budget all the renovations to figure out if I could do windows. NO hard sell like other window companies. I took my time and signed the contract 1-2 months later after they gave me a firm quote. Very happy with the result.read more
    David Burns
    David Burns
    14:51 09 Oct 20
    I contracted Adelphia to paint my living room, dining room and a hallway. The two tradesmen arrived exactly on time on the first day and prepared the areas. They filled holes, repaired a long crack on the ceiling and two on one of the walls then painted the ceiling. They came back on time the next day to add a second coat of paint on the ceilings and to paint the walls and trim. The painters were courteous, polite and worked hard with just a short lunch break both days. Their clean up was excellent and the job was outstanding. This is the second time we have hired Adelphia, and in both instances my wife and I were very pleased. I would not hesitate in recommending them.read more
    Tarik M
    Tarik M
    12:37 25 Aug 21
    Their prices were the best when we bid the job. Their workers were very efficient, professional. They did a great job and cleaned out after they left. They even took the old window screens and debris with them. And it’s a family company. We’re thinking of them for the roof next. Great job!read more
    John Davenjay
    John Davenjay
    20:29 07 Jun 21
    Working with George and the team at Adelphia Exteriors was top notch. I'm glad I went with them. It was a smooth process, they worked with me each step of the way to make sure I was getting what I wanted. They were responsive, flexible and professional. I only have positive feedback to share. It was a good experience from start to finish.read more
    Vivek Shankar
    Vivek Shankar
    21:30 20 May 21
    The Adelphia team was great from start to finish when we had three windows installed in the basement. It was a bit tricky -- one competitor said they couldn't do the job. Adelphia didn't flinch at all. I'm now enjoying sitting in the basement with the windows open on 85 degree day. Choose these guys!read more
    Thomas Melito
    Thomas Melito
    17:45 26 Apr 21
    We used Adelphia to replace the insulation in our attic. Due to the need to schedule the work for after a different contractor completed a repair of the ridge vent, we needed some flexibility on their part. This was handled with patience and understanding. The actual work was done very professionally (both the removal of the old damaged insulation and the installation of the new). The workers arrived on time, maintained a very clean work site and were very polite and respectful. I highly recommend this company.read more
    Frankie Mcdaniel
    Frankie Mcdaniel
    17:49 17 Mar 21
    We hired Adelphi Exteriors to replace our roof, siding, and gutters for our house and could not be happier with their great work. They were very professional, thorough and the work was done in a timely manner. They are a family owned business that we found though a friend who has used them multiple times. I would highly recommend them. We are also planing to use them to replace our windows in the future.UPDATE!!! Our windows have now been replaced and I am still just as happy with their service. I have also requested a quote for painting in the future.read more
    Charles Ide
    Charles Ide
    15:23 17 Mar 21
    This company is great! I had quotes by three different companies to replace windows, paint our brick, install new siding, install new doors, install new gutters/down spouts, plus add new insulation! Adelphia was the only company I contacted for an estimate that would take care of all my needs with one contract. This is a family owned company that has been extremely responsive throughout the entire process. Our initial appointment was with George, who wrote the estimate, the contract, and was our main point of contact; Vickie (mom) runs the office and frequently coordinated with me by phone; and Nick (dad) founded the business in the 1980s and oversaw the painting. The painting is second to none. multiple coats with the highest quality materials looks beautiful! Next came the exterior siding. We wanted to replace our original siding and decided to change it to vinyl shake! You can see the results in the before and after photos. We are thrilled with the results! The replacement doors and windows were installed efficiently and are so beautiful. We selected Adelphia based on their competitive pricing and excellent reviews on Angie's List and Yelp. George worked with us at every step along the way to make sure we were satisfied. The contractors that Adelphia use are careful, professional, punctual, and do excellent work! The original contract included a thank you note by George that said they were determined to exceed our expectations, well, they delivered! I highly recommend Adelphia Exteriors for their value, workmanship, and personal attentiveness.read more
    Denise Kidd
    Denise Kidd
    23:36 12 Jan 21
    They were wonderful. Prior to signing up with them, we met with multiple other companies who tried to hard sell us into signing the same day to receive a discount. When George walked into my house I immediately told him we would not be signing on day one, and he laughed and said no problem! He was so agreeable and so easy to work with and the fact that he comes from a family business, I just had a good feeling about them. Not once did he try to hard sell us and pressure us to close, he gave us plenty of time to ask lots of questions and visit a show room in order for us to make our decision. They just finished installing some amazing windows, approximately 25, and a brand new front door. We are absolutely thrilled with the product and the quality of their installation and cleanup. They are a good company to work with! And I would not hesitate to use them again!read more
    Bhakti Modha
    Bhakti Modha
    18:04 28 Oct 20
    Had a great experience with Adelphia exterior who replaced the attic insulation and air sealing for my home. Rob was awesome, very thorough & professional. Highly recommend Adelphia Exterior for anyone looking to get their insulation done!read more
    Frank Muth
    Frank Muth
    20:58 25 Aug 20
    Wow wow wow! This is a great company. Had the entire inside of the house painted, shutters painted and front door replaced. Nick and George were incredible. Vicki rocked all the coordinations and the crews were professional very courteous and did fantastic work. I will use them again for our next project.read more
    Christopher Capannola
    Christopher Capannola
    00:33 19 Oct 20
    From our initial consultation with Rob until the job was completed, our experience with Adelphia Exteriors was great! Rob was very easy to talk to, made sure we understood all our options and answered all our questions. There was absolutely ZERO pressure and no attempt to upsell us on anything. The install of our 19 windows was done in one day, the crew was on time and did a great job. We couldn't be happier with the windows and would recommend Adelphia without hesitation.read more
    Cynthia Segura
    Cynthia Segura
    21:03 27 Oct 20
    We hired Adelphia Exteriors for our Exterior Painting Project and we are very happy with the finished product. Rob provided the estimate within one business day. Viki promptly and kindly helped us to schedule the start date after our project was delayed because of weather. Nick visited the job site to make sure all the exterior colors accurately matched the existing colors. Nick made sure all the areas that required maintenance painting were carefully addressed. He even replaced our house numbers which was a way better option than painting them. He also meticulously worked with Diego to reinstall two shutters that were already partially detached. Diego and his painting team did an amazing job painting all our exterior brick, porch, garage frame and metal light fixtures. They were very detailed in their painting services and professional. Again, we are very pleased with the results.read more
    Next Reviews Write a review
    powered by Google

    © 2023 Adelphia Exteriors · Powered by 321 Web Marketing · Website Privacy Policy & Terms of Use