Importance of Proper Installation

Proper installation and maintenance of Andersen^® windows is essential to fully attain the benefits of experienced window design and engineering, quality materials and skilled workmanship.

Written installation instructions which provide guidelines for proper installation are available for Andersen products by:

1. clicking on INSTALLATION>>Guides above,
2. contacting your local Andersen supplier or
3. writing to: Andersen Corporation, Box 12, Bayport, MN 55003.

Remember that every installation is different, and Andersen strongly recommends consultation with the local Andersen supplier or an experienced contractor, architect or structural engineer prior to the installation of any Andersen product. Installation of Andersen products is the sole responsibility of the architect, building owner, contractor and/or consumer.

General Installation Guidelines

1. Use the appropriate drainage plane on the building (housewrap, building paper, etc.).
2. Make certain the drainage plane is continuous (proper overlaps to shed water, taped seams, etc.).
3. Read and follow the installation instructions
4. With the exception of skylights and roof windows, Andersen products should be installed only in the vertical position.
5. Check the rough opening to make sure it is sized properly and is square and level.
6. Install the window plumb.
7. Install the window level.
8. Install the window square (measure diagonals).
9. Follow installation instructions to properly locate shims and to achieve 6-8 above. In general, shims are often required under the window jambs at the sill and along the jambs on the sides.
10. Check for squareness of unit before final anchoring in wall.
11. Anchor the window properly with appropriate fasteners (nails or screws spaced as directed).
12. Integrate the window into the drainage plane of the wall using high-quality flashing and sealing materials (all flashing materials should be properly overlapped to shed water).
13. Allow for ¼" for a sealant joint around perimeter of unit between exterior finish materials and unit.
14. Insulate the interior cavity between the window frame and the rough opening. Do not overpack.
15. Stain and/or seal all unfinished wood surfaces promptly to minimize moisture absorption.
16. Keep paint off weatherstrip and interior hardware finish.
17. Protect complete unit during construction and plastering.
18. Check Installation and operation of unit before application of interior trim.

Cautions

1. Directly applying certain types of after-market film to surfaces of the insulating glass in windows or patio doors may cause thermal stress conditions and result in glass breakage or seal failure. Andersen Corporation cannot be held responsible for product performance when films are applied to Andersen products.
2. The use of removable insulating materials such as insulated window coverings, shutters and other shading devices may also cause thermal stress conditions and/or deformation of protective vinyl. In addition, excessive condensation may result, which can have a deteriorating effect on the window or patio door unit(s) involved. Andersen corporation will not be responsible for product performance when these kinds of materials or devices are applied to or used in conjuction with Andersen products.
3. In masonry wall construction, leave adequate clearance between sill, jambs and masonry for caulking and dimensional change of framework.
4. Acid solutions commonly used to wash brick and other masonry materials do not affect exterior cladding, but may affect glass and hardware. Follow the acid solution manufacturer's recommendations carefully and also be careful to protect and/or cover the entire window unit before washing down brick. Contact with the solution could etch the glass and cause seal failure to the insulating glass.
5. The use of a snow rake on roof windows/skylights is not recommended.
6. Andersen windows may be combined in almost unlimited ribbons or stacks if each unit is positively secured to structural elements on opposing side and if the proper joining system is used. See Combinations Overview, Design Intro and Tutorial for more information.