We frequently hear from homeowners seeking answers to repair and maintenance problems. Many of these questions and answers are compiled in our Home Improvement Library. Here is a recent question.

Question
I recently had (major home improvement retailer) install a new back entry door. In the process, they had to remove the aluminum wrapping that covered the molding around the outside of the door frame, and now it’s exposed to the elements. They told me that cutting and shaping the wrap requires a large, expensive piece of equipment that only a large siding company would have, and no siding company would be interested in such a small job!  Can you recommend a source to cover this molding before winter?

-Donna B.

Answer
Dear Donna,
With your door installation, you’ve experienced a classic example of narrow-focused knowledge. Many people can install a door, but a true home technician knows that a proper door installation automatically includes integration it into your walls and flashing system.

It’s important to be able to disassemble the wall cladding to an appropriate point to rebuild the flashing system and then properly install and integrate the door into the wall. This can be as simple as taking vinyl siding apart and installing proper head or cap flashings (see the diagram below), or it can get extremely involved. Creative methods may be needed to insure a weather-tight installation with other wall materials.

The crew that came to your home are specialists trained for very specific tasks.  Our homes are made of thousands of interconnecting pieces, each one affecting the other. When specialists encounter an issue outside their knowledge, you’re lucky when they err on the side of caution rather than attempt something above their badge level. As you’ve learned, this leaves you needing to call in another company to, essentially, finish the job. What originally appears a cost-effective solution can become expensive if 2 or 3 companies are needed to do the job right.  Looking at the bigger picture, our experience has been that the majority of doors (and windows) are installed incorrectly, which can lead to water damage that eventually reveals itself.  Learn how to spot door frame damage.

In answer to your specific question, any reputable full-service remodeling company or exteriors company, should have metal brakes – the piece of equipment needed to bend a new wrap for your molding. We’ve found it’s generally best to use Big Box Stores for purchasing household hardware needs and avoid their remodeling services because they’re typically not knowledgeable enough for this type of work.

There always comes a time when you need to replace windows or exterior doors on your home. When it’s time to shop for these, consumers tend to focus on the product itself by asking:

• What is the best window or door for my budget?
• What styles will look best and keep me safe?
• What kind of warranty does it have?

While these are important questions, the most overlooked factor is the company that is installing the product. Know that the best replacement window or door money can buy will fail if it’s installed wrong.

The company that installs the door or window is important because they will be the ones you call if there’s a problem. There’s no sense in wasting time by calling the manufacturer; you need good communication and trust with the company who installed it, because they ultimately take care of any future issues.

When looking for replacement windows and doors, the most important factor is the installing company, followed by the product itself and the warranties that come with it. Here’s some questions to ask:

How long have you been in business? The more years of service under their belt, the more proof of dedication to doing the job right. You need to know that the company will be there to take care of you tomorrow and years down the road.

What is your standing with the BBB and Angie’s List? You can check this information yourself on-line so that you know the answer before asking the question. But a company’s response to this question will reveal how serious they are about customer service and problem resolution.

What are your certifications and industry memberships? True professionals are continually learning about their craft and are proud to belong to associations that prove their expertise and skill. When this question is met with a list of affiliations and certifications, you know you have a dedicated company.

Will you help me choose the right window or door for my house and budget? This seems a silly question because of course they will help you. But the key is getting the right product for you. Some companies have an obligation to sell only one specific brand so may convince you that this is the way to go. You are best served by what’s appropriate for you, so look for a company that serves you rather than a specific sales agenda.

What are the warranties on the product and craftsmanship? There will be a manufacturer’s warranty covering the window or door, and a separate warranty for the work of the company who installs it. Be sure to cover the details of both of these warranties so you know exactly what to expect.

Who do I call if there’s a problem? This is really what it all boils down to – customer service. When investing in new windows or doors, you need a company that you can depend on to take care of you, do the job right the first time, and be there in case of future warranty or performance issues. You want a company that gladly “owns” the project so that you get the value and service you expect.

When it’s time for replacement windows or doors, know that the Mosby Building Arts team is focused on your needs.  Mosby Consultants and Exterior Designers are well versed in all of the products available, so will help you choose the right window or door for your home and budget. And just as important, Mosby is the gold standard for installing windows and doors right the first time, and standing behind their work for years to come. For new doors and windows, call Mosby at 314.909.1800 or contact them here.

Rain, ice, snow and condensation cause water problems that often show up inside your home. When you see interior water damage, the first thought turns to the roof – is it leaking? But the roof is only one part of a system designed to keep water from infiltrating your home.

The roof is really only the uppermost part of a water protection system that keeps you dry. These components work in tandem to repel or move water to the ground, and it only takes the failure of one of these parts to allow water inside your home. Meaning, your roof can be in perfect shape, but if the gutters are malfunctioning you will eventually see water leaks indoors.

Your home’s water protection system consists of:

● Roof – shingles are like hundreds of well-placed umbrellas atop your home, keeping you dry and directing water toward the gutters, and a roof is only as good as its flashing. Click to learn more about types of roofing materials.

● Flashing – at the intersection of planes and wherever opposing materials meet on your roof is where water will try to get in. Strips of rust-resistant metal are installed in these areas to move water toward the gutters. Flashing is also installed around window and door openings. When flashing is applied wrong (known as reverse flashing) it will actually direct water toward the interior of the home.

● Gutters & Downspouts – gutters collect water coming off the roof and direct it to the downspouts which move the water away from the home’s foundation. Improper installation, damage (like a falling tree limb), being undersized or clogging can cause gutter malfunction, which causes water to backup and damage roof underlayment, soffits and fascia. Downspouts can become clogged or if they deposit waste water too close to the home this water can eventually seep through the foundation and into the basement.

● Siding – siding gives your house its distinctive look while serving double duty to keep water out and move it to the ground. Notice that siding planks are angled down so that water drips off them. Brick and stone facades have built-in channels and weep holes that keep water from making contact with the inner structure of the home. Improper installation of or damage to siding allows water inside.

● Windows – sometimes when it rains, you shut a window to keep rain from coming in. But even a closed window can let water in if it has improper flashing, was installed incorrectly or has developed gaps in its caulking and seals. It is often the area around the window that fails, rather than the window itself.

All of these parts work together to keep you dry, and if one facet of the system fails you will have interior water infiltration. To insure continuous operation, it is a sound idea to update several parts of the system at the same time, when the time comes. For instance, if you’re installing a new roof, take this opportunity to get new gutters and downspouts at the same time.

And remember that proper installation is the key to the best performance and lasting value of your weather protection system. The very best roof shingle that money can buy will fail if the flashing is installed wrong.

Mosby Building Arts specializes in detecting and correcting water problems. They understand the chain of command of water protection so can diagnose the cause and repair or install all the components required to keep you dry. For a water management consultation, call Mosby at 314.909.1800 or contact them here.

MP3: Scott Mosby Tip of the Week – 12

Each week on KMOX 1120 AM, The Home Improvement Answer Man Scott Mosby shares a timely tip that will improve your home and life.

Tune into the KMOX Home Improvement Show with Scott Mosby every Saturday from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. During that time, Scott answers your questions at 314.436.7900 or 1.800.925.1120.

Windows show their age in many different ways, making it apparent that it’s time for replacement windows. But before investing in replacement windows, you need to determine exactly what caused the deterioration in the first place, because if the underlying problem goes uncorrected the replacement windows will also fail.

A visual inspection of ailing windows will reveal clues as to what’s causing the problem. These problems typically fall into three categories:

The Window Unit

If you have dark green or black patches on the inside of the glass, or if the glass remains cloudy even after cleaning it, this is because moisture and dirt are trapped between the two panes of insulated glass. This indicates a broken seal, and repair may not be as cost effective as a replacement window.

Structural Problems

Hairline cracks on interior window trim or glass, cracks in the drywall or plaster around the window, or difficulty in opening, closing or locking the window are all signs of the framing pressing on the window unit. These structural weaknesses need to be fixed before installing a replacement window, or the same problems will affect the new window.

Water Damage

Water is the number one enemy of windows, and rarely is it the window that’s allowing water in, but the system around it. Signs of water damage include:

● Stains or marks around interior frames or surrounding walls

● Soft spots in the drywall or plaster under the window

● Soft spots and/or splintering on wood window frames or sills

● Flaking paint at the bottom of the sash

● Ants in and around the window

Windows rot from the inside out, so window sills are the first to show symptoms. Water damage can be caused by improper installation, lack of maintenance or reverse flashing. The water problems must be corrected before new windows are installed.

Installing new windows without solving the cause of the problem is like treating the symptoms while ignoring the disease. The very best replacement window that money can buy cannot withstand untreated structural or water problems.

When the old windows come out, a thorough inspection of the framing is a must. This means that the entire window unit must be removed so that underlying problems can be identified. But the catch is that window installers are typically not trained or instructed to look for – or fix – problems around the window.

Learn the right way to install replacement windows.

To get the value and comfort you expect from replacement windows, work with the professionals at Mosby Building Arts from the very beginning. Their decades of experience in water management, structural problems and carpentry will insure that you benefit from inspection of the problems, choosing the proper windows and expert installation. For replacement windows done right the first time, call Mosby at 314.909.1800 or contact them here.

MP3: Scott Mosby Tip of the Week – 08

Each week on KMOX 1120 AM, The Home Improvement Answer Man Scott Mosby shares a timely tip that will improve your home and life.

Tune into the KMOX Home Improvement Show with Scott Mosby every Saturday from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. During that time, Scott answers your questions at 314.436.7900 or 1.800.925.1120.

At times it is easy to see that your windows need replacement. Many clues are noticeable to the untrained eye, but more commonly we see very subtle, almost invisible clues that indicate serious window conditions and potentially deep structural failure that is noticeable only to the experienced eye.

These following visible symptoms or clues suggest window replacement:

• Moisture fogging on the glass or between glass panes from condensation.
• Difficult operation of the window, or the window is totally inoperable or stuck shut preventing escape in an emergency.
• Cold and drafty areas near the windows that usually indicate costly air leakage.
• Water stains or rotting on the window sash or sill.
• Poor security, locks missing or not operating, especially on the ground floor of your house.

Choosing Who To Replace Your Windows

The window installation is actually more important than the window itself. Choose experienced installers who will only use a consistent product they have found with a tested track record as one they can depend on.  Stick with certified professionals to get the performance and quality you expect.

Professional installers understand your house and how it acts as a system of connected components. New windows perform wonderfully when installed correctly, and can leak air and water if installed wrong. These costly leaks can undermine both the comfort and structure of your house. Choose companies with certified carpenters that install your windows with the correct methods, up to date materials and according to the warranty instructions for the window. These certifications require continuing education to maintain skills and industry training so your house remains safe, healthy and valuable. Knowledge-guided window installation includes:

• Advanced flashing techniques: this keeps water out of your home, avoiding damage, rot and health issues.

• Properly sealing the installed window: air and water leaks are a drain on your energy bills, comfort and can rot out the structure of your home.

Choosing Your Replacement Windows

Quality window replacement companies build their reputations by using quality windows that deliver lasting performance with strong warranties. Better windows deliver added benefits and money savings over many years through energy efficiency. Energy savings come from two major areas in windows: low air infiltration and insulated glass. Air infiltration from leaky and drafty windows is both expensive and uncomfortable for home owners. Quality windows that are properly selected, installed, flashed and adjusted deliver exceptional performance for many years well beyond the extra cost for their quality.

It’s More Than Just Selecting a Window

There is a lot to consider when selecting replacement windows, and you need a complete staff of professionals to guide you through the process. Considerations include:

• Choosing a style that’s easy for you to operate and addresses safety issues for everyone in the home.
• Selecting the look that compliments both the exterior and interior design of your home.
• Adhering to historical or neighborhood association requirements.
• Understanding the structure of the wall where the new windows will be placed
• How the window is secured to the wall frame or opening.
• Providing a strong warranty that handles any claims promptly and efficiently.

In essence, you need full service all through the process from selection to installation. Choose a company that works with you to deliver quality windows which are installed correctly. This is far more important than concentrating only on window brand or style. A certified and experienced company takes care of every aspect of your important home improvement investment.

Why Choose Mosby For Your Replacement Windows

Homeowners value our deep bench of certified and trained professionals who discover underlying problems and deliver the real solution. Follow through this case study of how one homeowner chose Mosby Building Arts to correct his leaking window problems. See the hidden truth that was discovered from a Mosby consulting visit and the steps taken to properly install a leaking window.

We specialize in correcting the mistakes others have made by installing windows wrong, so we know full well the considerable cost of paying for the initial work and then paying again to do it right. Lasting value is a much better choice than the consequences of bargain or cut-rate decisions.

Mosby invests time and continuing training of our staff of professionals. Certain window manufacturers are included in the Mosby selection list only if their reputation is solid and a high quality product is consistently delivered. We choose window manufacturers who maintain a positive record for responsive service and strong warranties. Our practices and products assure you that all our window installations meet and exceed your expectations and beauty requirements.

Our method of installing includes treating your home and property with the utmost respect, but also attending to the details that deliver effectiveness and efficiency of your window investment. When it’s time for replacement windows, call Mosby for real peace of mind in your window replacement project.

Let us walk you through the options and styles of Mosby replacement windows by calling 314.909.1800 or contacting us here.

A St. Louis homeowner had problems with windows that needed attention, so he called us for the Mosby Home Consultation. The problem window was the ground floor double window, shown in the center of the photo above.

On the interior of the window frame was a series of paint blisters that had “popped” and split open. Our homeowner wanted to know why this was happening on a 6-year old home, and was thinking he needed to replace the window. The reason he hired us to assess the problem was so he could get an honest answer and take care of this problem once and for all.

To the untrained eye, this would be a scrape and re-paint, but that doesn’t address what caused the problem in the first place. From decades of experience, our Mosby Consultant knew the blistering paint was a sign of water swelling the wood frame around the window.

All the homeowner saw was a break in the caulk and small leak. The Mosby Consultant knew there would be far reaching consequences and proposed a solution that addressed and communicated the real problem. The homeowner decided to choose Mosby to take care of this.

When the Mosby Building Arts carpenters popped off the interior casing trim, the evidence confirmed just what the Consultant suspected: that water had leaked into the structure for many years.

After removing some of the exterior vinyl siding, the Mosby crew confirmed that reverse flashing had, indeed, occurred during original construction, and no water seal existed.

As shown in the photo above, the water-resistant house wrap comes up to the window, the window frame overlaps it to create an additional water barrier, but it is missing several crucial steps the prevent water from leaking into the window frame.

This is a perfect example of reverse flashing, which means that instead of repelling water, the installation method channels the water into the wall cavity and showing a leak at the window opening. Structural lumber was wet, warped and rotting. The insulation above the window was soaking up water like a sponge.

Prolonged water infiltration weakens the building structure and creates air contaminates such as mold and mildew, and eventually damages the cosmetic surfaces of your home’s interior. In this case, the internal water leak finally showed itself as paint blisters on the interior window frame.

The Mosby Consulting method accurately detected and exposed this destructive construction practice which is very common throughout the country today. In this case, the window leak was only the symptom that suggested the underlying problem of prolonged water leaking and potential structural decay.

Shown above is a Mosby Building Arts training model illustrating the proper way to plan, flash and perform window and door installation. This story demonstrates the difference between traditional construction methods and the Mosby practice of getting it right the first time.

This is the flashing method used on a windowsill to direct any water outside of the wall cavity and keep it on the outside of the building. In effect, we create an obstacle course of barriers that keep watering from penetrating your home.

The way our production crew does flashing and water protection is not common practice in the building or window trades. After years of fixing bad flashing mistakes, we developed these preventive measures so homeowners would have lasting quality for the investment they made in their homes.

This repair job is now completed properly, and it’s a testament to the talents of Mosby carpenters that it looks exactly the same as before. But there is one major difference: not a drop of water will leak into the interior!

The value of a Mosby Home Consultation is that it’s a highly effective tool for uncovering hidden problems in your home, and correcting them properly. You get peace of mind when Mosby house detectives uncover your reoccurring problems and solve the problem once and for all. Click here to get the help you need.