Water Intrusion into Wood Frame Walls

Wall Damage from Wall and Window Leaks

On many low rise condo buildings, and most homes, the exterior walls to the second or third floors are constructed using wood framing. I use to be a big fan of wood framing as it offers much better insulation value. The problem with wood framing in exterior walls is the potential for water intrusion into the walls – a HUGE problem for your home or building. One of the big things our company constantly deals with in Florida, is water intrusion into a building, and it can come in buckets (pun intended!) through the roof, exterior wall finishes (such as stucco, siding, etc.) and windows (now you see the connection!).
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Choosing a Window Installation Contractor

First let’s start off by saying that the many different window companies may have their own dedicated installers. Also, there are many specialized products or niches within the replacement window market.  Some companies focus on energy efficient windows and some consumers have a demand for this pricey product as it saves them money and provides a tax credit.  For hurricane impact windows this is tricky issue since a vinyl window will provide better energy efficiency but also much lower design pressures. And the list of different products continues with high design pressures for impact windows on beach front properties (those also often need “turtle glass”), hurricane windows with lower design pressures (& therefore lower cost) for inland properties, Miami-Dade approved hurricane windows for store front operations, etc. 

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