Pella is very fussy about their installs. And they should be. After all, you're making a serious financial committment. If you choose the builder's laborer to install them, make sure they follow the installation requirements or the windows warranty may be voided.

I would have the local certified Pella installer quote you the install.Things like caulk and flashing tape MUST be used when installing.

I saw two new construction houses this week that had the windows nailed into the framing with no caulk and no tape and the siders were moving in on them at a fast pace.

Michael

As Michael stated, Pella is very fussy about their installs. My company went through a training process to be certified to install their windows. When their windows and doors are installed by a company that is certified to install their products they do stand behind their warrenty. We also install for other companies and none of the other companies have the same procedures as does Pella. We get called to take over jobs quite often because the framers or other companies are installing them improperly. They use, at least in Utah, a lot more flashing than any other window company because they don't use caulk on their windows and only on the sill of their doors.

Hope this helps

Jeff

So this sounds like I should make sure that the contractor uses a window sub certified to install Pella window. How do I find out who is certified? If the contractor uses someone who isn't certified does that mean that Pella doesn't warrant the windows?

I would talk with the company you are getting the windows through. I am finding here that more and more contractors are having the window manufacterer install the windows because of liablility reasons and warrenty issues. You could go to Pella's web site at http://www.pella.com/finder/contractor.asp and type in your zip code. I think all of the offices do installs but am not sure.

Ok so what is one to look for or request when getting an installer? I hate to think only certifed installlers are capable of good installs? Or am I wrong it it a very specific task oriented thing to install patio doors and windows. Thansk you very much.

I suspect no window manufacturer is perfect but I know two architects who have had to force Pella to admit obvious mistakes in the ordering process. There are other members here who have mentioned protracted fights with Pella but I don't know the cause.

If you use them I would recommend carefuly documenting the ordering process and reviewing the final order and/or shop drawings. Also keep all records, especially records proving that you gave them copies of the architectural drawings showing the mulling and muntin configurations. Check all windows for correctness of size and configuraiton immediately upon delivery.

That's not a bad approach with any window order but I would take special care with Pella.

Good luck.

Yes mightyanvil, its not a bad approach with any window manufacturer. However, (for the most part) all manufacturers are blindly making what is ordered. Architectural drawings are crucial if a unit has custom grids or mullions or radius'. If the unit is delivered wrong, most of the time it is your salespersons error. Hold them accountable. And if possible have your architect involved with the rep.

Please do your homework! Pella does not stand behind their products. They will take your money with a smile. But when the problems start, you will never get them to fix the manufacturing mistakes. There will be many. Just do your research. You will find thousands of unhappy Pella customers. Please take the time to watch this 2 minute video. You can see the water as it flows freely into our home. This is just one window, but we have many windows in our home with the same problem.

Here is a link that might be useful: Pella Windows Leak # 19