Windows fail far more often because of bad installation than because the window itself is defective. In Staten Island and South Brooklyn, many homes had replacement windows installed decades ago, often without proper flashing, drainage or insulation. The result is water intrusion, drafts and hidden rot around window openings.

Here’s how to spot an installation problem early.

Common Signs of a Bad Window Install

• Water stains or bubbling paint below or beside the window.

• Drafts even when the window is fully closed.

• Condensation between interior trim and wall, not just on the glass.

• Soft or rotting wood at the sill or lower corners.

• Windows that stick or shift, especially after rain.

• Cracks in caulking that reappear shortly after sealing.

These issues usually indicate water is getting behind the window frame.

Why This Happens Locally

Older replacement installs often skipped proper flashing and relied on caulk alone. Over time, caulk fails and water has no path to drain. Many Staten Island and Brooklyn homes also have masonry exteriors, where improper window integration leads to trapped moisture inside walls.

Salt air and freeze thaw cycles accelerate failure.

What Homeowners Should Do

• Inspect window sills and trim from the inside and outside.

• Probe suspicious wood for softness.

• Look for missing or damaged flashing.

• Do not rely on repeated caulking as a fix.

• Have a contractor assess whether the window needs reinstallation, not replacement.

A bad install can damage framing long before the window looks old.

—

Joseph Ranola | Five-Star Staten Island & South Brooklyn Realtor® (30 + Google reviews)
Associate Broker · Matias Real Estate | Founder · Bridge & Boro Team
Serving 103xx and 11209 / 11214 / 11228 | $25 M + closed volume
📞 917-716-1496 | ranolarealestate.com