Replacing windows in an existing home is one of the most valuable upgrades a homeowner can make. Done correctly, new windows improve energy efficiency, comfort, safety, and curb appeal. Done poorly, they can cause hidden water damage, higher utility bills, and premature failure.
As an AAMA-certified window and door installer and ICC Residential Combination Inspector (R-5), I have inspected thousands of window installations across Texas. Unfortunately, I have also seen firsthand how often window replacement is mishandled. This article explains the most common pitfalls, how to choose the right window manufacturer, why pulling permits matters, and what proper installation really looks like.
The pitfalls of window replacement often begin with the assumption that the work is simple. Many homeowners believe it involves nothing more than removing the old unit, dropping in the new, and sealing it with caulk. The truth is far more complicated. One of the most common problems is ignoring hidden damage. Rotted sills, failed weather barriers, and water intrusion often go undetected when installers rush. Covering these problems does not eliminate them; it only traps moisture inside the walls, setting the stage for future deterioration.
Another frequent mistake is overlooking code requirements. In Texas, the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) requires all windows to comply with AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 (NAFS) standards. The 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) also mandates minimum performance levels. For example, in Climate Zone 3, which includes Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, replacement windows must have a U-factor of 0.35 or less and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.25 or less. Choosing products that do not meet these ratings risks failed inspections and higher energy bills for the homeowner.
A further pitfall is skipping the permit. Many contractors attempt to avoid applying for permits on window replacement projects, claiming they are unnecessary or will slow the job down. In reality, most Texas municipalities require permits because window replacement alters structural openings, affects emergency egress, and impacts energy code compliance. A permit triggers municipal or third-party inspections to verify that the work meets code. When contractors skip permits, homeowners lose this layer of protection and may face fines or encounter problems when selling the home if the unpermitted work is discovered. Even with a permit in place, another common issue is relying solely on “green tags.” A quick municipal sign-off is not proof of proper installation. IRC Section R703.4 requires windows and flashing to be installed according to manufacturer instructions, not simply to the satisfaction of a cursory inspection.
The importance of pulling permits cannot be overstated. Permits are far more than paperwork; they are a homeowner’s safeguard. They are a legal requirement whenever window replacement alters framing, changes emergency egress dimensions, or affects energy performance. Contractors who bypass this step are violating municipal law. Permits also provide a mechanism for code enforcement, ensuring that the work will be inspected for compliance with the IRC, the IECC, and any local amendments. This protects the homeowner from substandard work. In addition, permits protect property value. Unpermitted work often surfaces during resale, forcing sellers to correct the deficiency at their own expense before closing. Permits also create accountability. When a contractor applies for a permit, their name is officially attached to the job, creating a legal record of responsibility for compliance.
One example comes from a case in Frisco where a homeowner replaced all of their windows without a permit. The new units reduced bedroom opening sizes below the minimum requirements for emergency escape and rescue openings in IRC Section R310. When the home went on the market, the sale stalled until all of the noncompliant windows were replaced again—this time under a permit and proper inspection. The cost to the homeowner nearly doubled.
Choosing the right window manufacturer is another key to protecting an investment. The best practice is to insist on products that carry independent certifications and strong warranties. Windows with the AAMA Gold Label have been independently tested for air leakage, water penetration, and structural performance, giving homeowners confidence in their durability. NFRC energy ratings should also be verified, as these labels confirm compliance with the IECC requirements for U-factor and SHGC performance. Finally, the warranty should be reviewed carefully. Strong coverage is a sign that a manufacturer stands behind its product, while vague or limited warranties are a red flag.
Even the best windows will fail if they are installed incorrectly, which is why proper installation is essential. Certified installers who follow AAMA Installation Masters guidelines and the manufacturer’s instructions ensure that the work is done right. A proper installation begins with careful inspection and repair of the rough opening to address any hidden damage. The window must be integrated with flashing and the weather-resistive barrier (WRB) to provide a continuous drainage plane. It must be fastened correctly into the structural framing and shimmed to remain plumb, level, and square. Perimeter sealing with low-expansion foam or approved sealant over backer rod is necessary to prevent air and water infiltration. Finally, the installer should verify smooth operation, proper locking, and functional drainage weeps before the job is considered complete.
Homeowners can protect their investment by taking proactive steps. They should insist that the contractor pulls a permit and schedules all required inspections. They should require AAMA Gold Label products with NFRC ratings and demand compliance with IRC Section R703.4, Section R310, and the IECC standards applicable to their climate zone. Finally, they may wish to consider hiring an independent inspector to verify code and manufacturer compliance before releasing final payment to the contractor.
In conclusion, window replacement is not just a cosmetic improvement. It is a technical project with long-term consequences for safety, energy efficiency, and property value. The most common failures do not arise from defective products but from poor installation and unpermitted work. By requiring contractors to obtain permits, choosing the right manufacturer, and ensuring certified installation, homeowners can avoid costly mistakes and protect their Texas homes for decades to come.
