Idaho temperature extremes are hard to miss. Winters are cold, while summers are hot, and both wind and snow can stress glass installations. The impact is seen more in some cities than others, including Pocatello, Twin Falls, Burley, and Boise.
Whether you are installing new glass or replacing old glass, you have to ensure the installation is done right. Contact a dependable local service, such as Nu-Vu Glass, which offers bespoke solutions for both commercial property owners and homeowners. The company currently takes care of diverse installations in cities like Pocatello and Twin Falls, covering segments like skylights, windows, doors, shower enclosures, and much more.
What are some common glass installation mistakes? We have enlisted a few of them.
Hiring the Wrong Glass Installer: Like we mentioned, you have to choose a local & renowned glass installer, for which you should look for proven experience rather than the price. Make sure you double-check whether the contractor is based in Idaho and is licensed and insured. That will ensure they understand both weather concerns and building codes. You can also compare options based on references and online reviews.
Ignoring Idaho’s Climate: Glass installations that may have worked for your previous home in Texas will not work here. Weather changes are often unique here, and thermal expansion often means air leakage and cracks. UV exposure in summer can also discolor and damage uncoated glass. Instead, ask your installer about Low-E glass and UV-protective coatings.
Improper Framing: No matter how good the glass quality, you wouldn’t reap the same benefits if the framing isn’t done right. Gaps will allow air and moisture to enter, and sloppy installations often mean wood rotting, pests, and mold. Before you consider a new installation, ask the local technicians to check the existing frames. If required, they may consider replacements.
Choosing the Wrong Type of Glass: Many homeowners don’t choose tempered glass for doors and baths, while others don’t consider Low-E options for rooms facing direct sunlight. Glass failure doesn’t just mean energy loss, but could mean violating building codes. If you aren’t sure what type of glass you need for different parts of the house, don’t shy away from asking the glass technicians. They can suggest options based on your budget.
Overlooking Building Codes and Permits
If you are installing or replacing glass, you have to adhere to building codes and permits, which may be different for each city. A simple mistake would be missing safety glazing when required. This is one of the few reasons why you should always consider installers who are located in the city and understand Idaho requirements.
Rushing the Installation Process
Never make the mistake of asking the installers to complete the project sooner. This could mean improper alignment, incomplete sealing, or weatherproofing issues. Ask the installers how much time they would need for the entire installation, which will include curing time for sealants. There could be unexpected disruptions anyway due to weather.
Neglecting Ventilation and Air Circulation
Some rooms and spaces are more prone to humidity than others. If you don’t leave room for ventilation, you could be dealing with poor air quality and mold buildup. The risk is higher in areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. Either ask the installers for operable windows or discuss the choice of exhaust fans.
Takeaways
Besides choosing a specific glass type for each room and segment of the house, you must focus on proper installation and experienced contractors. The eventual goal is to ensure that the new installations don’t need replacement anytime soon, ensuring returns on investment. Always choose quality over speed and price, and no matter what you know already, discuss materials, compliance, and preparation with the technicians.
