5 Real Dangers of DIY Window Installation

A growing trend in recent years, the do-it-yourself (DIY) movement has expanded into a variety of concentrations. That includes home improvement. However, performing work of which you’re not sure (or not licensed for) can create a world of problems. That includes financial ruin, property damage, personal injury, and even death. Why take the risk?

The fact is that installers of replacement windows in Sarasota undergo extensive training, and bring decades of expertise to each project in which they’re involved. Here, you’ll learn more about why it makes sense to reach out for professional assistance during your next home improvement project.

1) Damage

Anytime people work with materials they’re not familiar with, the potential for error and injury is drastically increased. In the past, people who have attempted to install their own windows have suffered deep lacerations, ladder falls, and more. Having to pay steep hospital bills hardly seems worth whatever savings DIY installation might provide.

Also, glass is a very fragile material. Improper handling can easily cause breakage to both the window and treatment. That could add up to major repair costs and unnecessary frustration.

2) Reduced Efficiency

Poorly-installed windows create drafts and leaks that contribute to energy loss. That means your utility bills could skyrocket. Especially in the hot and humid summer months, you’d be essentially throwing money out the window.

Over time, these drafts can create havoc in your home, including mold and mildew growth, structural damage, and worse. Is saving a few bucks worth putting the health of your pets and loved ones in jeopardy?

3) Safety and Security Issues

Part of the professional window installation process is adding special glazes to protect against impact, and also filter out harmful UV rays. That means without high-quality custom windows, you could be constantly subject to an environment that’s detrimental to health.

In addition, criminals always seek the path of least resistance. If they spot a carelessly-installed window with thin glass, they’ll waste no time trying to break in. By contrast, professional window installers use durable glass with hardware that makes it difficult to open from the outside.

Plus, hurricane windows in Sarasota and throughout Southwest Florida can withstand intensely high winds. By contrast, inferior windows will simply shatter, sending shards of broken glass barreling into your home.

4) Legal and Insurance Ramifications  

Depending on where you live, it could be illegal to install your own windows and perform certain home improvement tasks without proper training and documentation. In that case, you’ll end up paying steep court costs in addition to remedying the initial situation.

Also, ignoring the requirements of some projects (permits, electrical and plumbing considerations) might cause your insurance company to drop you, or vastly raise your rates to recoup potential losses from sub-standard work.

5) Reduced Quality and Safety

Any REALTOR® will tell you that windows contribute to the total curb appeal of a home. However, when windows aren’t professionally installed, they create a cheap and shoddy look. That’s a big turn off for potential buyers. Even if you’re not in the market to sell your home, shabby window treatments demonstrate low pride of ownership. If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners’ association (HOA), you could even be fined for displaying sloppy craftsmanship.

For more than six decades, we’ve helped countless Southwest Florida homeowners devise and implement innovative property enhancement solutions. In addition to energy-efficient windows, we feature a variety of other valuable products. That includes storm protection and security, roof overs, retractable screen systems, pool enclosures, pergolas and ultra-lattice shade, indoor hand railings, carports, shutters and awnings, and much more.

Contact us today to learn more about how easy and affordable it is to upgrade your windows, and benefit from expert and reliable installation.