New Windows: An exercise in Avoiding Supply Chain Meltdowns

With today’s uncertain supply chain issues becoming “the new normal,” promising a 12-14 week construction timeline is a serious commitment. But from our clients’ perspective, that’s still 3-3.5 months of construction debris, loud noises, and displacement, which is no small part of why we make choices to stay on track for our major and minor milestones. Windows are no exception.

Here are some important steps our construction and design team took to stay on track:

1. With a simple note in the specifications to factory mull the windows, we turned a 5 window install into a two-window install. Factory Mulled – This means that windows sitting side-by-side are joined together by the window manufacturer instead of the construction team on site. So, instead of installing three separate window units along the West (garage facing) elevation and two window units along the north elevation of the new mudroom addition, the window crew set two pre-joined windows into the framing in a matter of a few hours.
2. A small window within the kitchen with a sloped topped would have normally called for an even longer lead time, given it would have needed to be custom-made. By fabricating a unique opening with dimensional lumber, glass, and the right amount of construction detailing, we skipped the long wait.
3. We help our clients select products from manufacturers that we have confidence in.
4. We create a construction timeline that is as accurate and informed as possible. If one step of the process needs to move forward ahead of another without sacrificing quality, we do our absolute best to keep moving forward.

Now Let’s Talk Install

Thanks to our windows crew, all the windows and new door were installed in a matter of about 4 hours. Here’s how:

1. Install Prep: The window gets wrapped/taped and set inside the framing.
2. A Nailing flange locks the window to the framing of the home.
3. The window is sealed with silicone and taped along the sides and bottom.
4. A drip cap is installed above the windows to keep water from leaking into the home.

Up Next…Look inside interior details from new tile to millwork throughout this Lake Nokomis Addition.