Post-Installation Inspection Checklist for Aluminum Windows

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A post-installation inspection checks that each aluminum window is level, plumb, sealed, operating smoothly and finished without damage. Walk through the checklist room by room before signing off the work, and note any issue in writing while the installer is still on site.

Before You Start the Inspection

Plan a calm, well-lit walk-through once the installers have cleaned up and left the area. Bring a copy of the approved drawing and written specification so you can compare what was agreed with what was installed. Check that the window sizes, opening directions and colors match the approved drawing.

Have a pencil, a notebook or a shared photo folder ready. Photograph each window before you report any issue, so the installer can see exactly what you see.

Frame Alignment and Fixing

Look at each frame from the inside and outside. The frame should sit square in its opening, with even gaps around the perimeter and no visible twist. Check with a level that the sill and the frame sides are plumb and horizontal within what the installer has specified.

Frame is fixed firmly and does not move when pressed gently
Gaps around the frame are even and filled with the agreed sealant or foam
No bent profiles or dents on the outer surface

Sealing and Weatherproofing

Good sealing keeps rain, dust and drafts out. Run a finger along the perimeter sealant and look for gaps, cracks or areas where the sealant has pulled away. The gasket around the opening sash should press evenly when the window is closed, without leaving gaps at the corners.

Test on a windy or rainy day if possible, and check for water marks on the sill or inside the frame. Any leak should be reported in writing with a photo.

Operation of Opening Sashes

Open and close every sash several times. It should move smoothly, without catching or scraping, and latch securely at the handle. Check that hinges or sliding rollers run quietly and that the sash does not rub against the frame at any point of travel.

For sliding windows, confirm the panels glide in their tracks and lock properly. For tilt or top-hung types, check the stay arm and the stop that limits how far the sash opens.

Glazing, Glass and Hardware

Inspect the glass for scratches, chips, bubbles in laminated panels or visible film residue. Make sure the glazing beads are seated fully and that no gaps show along their edges. Check that handles, locks and screws are tight and that all hardware matches the approved specification.

Look at the window from several angles in daylight. Surface marks that only show at certain angles are worth noting before the sash is sealed in place.

Finish, Cleaning and Protective Film

Check the surface finish for even color, consistent texture and absence of scratches, drips or overspray. If the windows are powder-coated, the coating should look uniform on all faces, including inside corners. Confirm that any protective film is still in place where it was meant to stay, and remove only the film the installer has indicated.

Ask the installer to remove construction dust, sealant smears and labels. A clean finish is part of a completed job, and it is easier to fix problems while the crew is still present.

Frequently asked questions

When should I do the post-installation inspection?

Do it on the day the installers finish, while they are still on site. This gives them the chance to correct anything before they leave.

Should I test windows in rain?

If weather allows, yes. A rainy or windy day is the best test for sealing, and any leak should be recorded with photos and a short note.

What if a sash does not close smoothly?

Report it in writing with a short video of the movement. Many operating issues come from minor adjustments to hinges, rollers or the lock.

Do I need to check the drawing during inspection?

Yes. Compare sizes, opening directions, colors and hardware against the approved drawing and specification, since that is the agreed reference for the job.

Common mistakes to avoid

Many clients sign off too quickly and only notice problems after the crew has left. Always inspect with the installers present and record every issue in writing.

Our recommendation

Bring a spirit level, a flashlight and a camera to the walk-through, and photograph every window before signing off. Checking sealing on a windy day and comparing the work against the approved drawing will catch most issues early.

Summary

A careful post-installation inspection covers alignment, sealing, operation, glazing, hardware and finish. Doing it on site, with photos and written notes, protects both you and the installer.

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