Window buck installation tips and tricks

Learn how to install a window buck with guest contributor Randy Williams. He breaks down essential details for window buck construction in these video shorts.

Flashing a Bucked Window

In this video, Williams demonstrates how to buck a window for exterior insulation in a new construction home with a focus on critical flashing details. In a step-by-step process, he explains:

How to size the rough opening to accommodate a buck made of 2x4s, which is sealed and flashed starting at the sill and working up the sides and top.
Next, a stretch-style flashing tape is applied to the sill pan. A window can then be installed following the manufacturer's guidelines.
Finally, a metal head flashing is integrated that runs behind the WRB, over the buck, and down the window frame. Then, the assembly is ready for exterior insulation.

How to install XPS foam insulation around an existing window

This video details the installation process for XPS foam insulation in an existing wall assembly.

Starting with a properly flashed 400 Series Casement Window, Williams walks through the importance of a properly constructed window buck, which aligns with the insulation pane and provides a surface for trim attachment while ensuring no fasteners penetrate the window flange.
Another key feature is the sloped sill, which is made of the same material as the buck and directs water away from the window.
The final step he details is installing a window head flashing, which protects the top of the window buck and trim, and leaves the assembly ready for foam, strapping, and siding.

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^{These videos include building design and construction materials selected by the contractor. They are not endorsed by Andersen and may not be right for all applications. These videos are overviews. When installing Andersen products, visit our installation guide configurator for product installation instructions.}

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