“We’re looking for continuity in our water management, we’re looking for continuity in our air control layers, and we’re looking for our thermal control layer to be continuous as well,” Bruton said. Here’s a recap of the window installation process he followed to achieve all this.

The water control layer used consisted of ZIP System sheathing, tape, and sealants, along with our 100 Series windows. He noted that there are a lot of different water control systems, but no matter which one you choose, “the key is to understand what you’re asking the product to do and why.” To connect the window to the water control layer in a way that will properly manage water, he first sealed the sides using ZIP tape. Then, he sealed the top jamb, again using ZIP tape. This approach makes sure everything laps over the layer below, and water will shed below the window. He used the drainage method of installation, which leaves the bottom flange of the window unsealed. This is done so that any water that gets inside the rough opening, either because of an installation error or other failure, can find its way out. The sill was waterproofed with ZIP tape that continued down below the sill, so any potential water will drain outside the building envelope.