Hello experts: We are currently evaluating different windows and installers to replace 30 windows and getting conflicting recommendations on Aluminum Wrapping the brick molding around the windows. Some are recommending it saying it will protect the molding from the elements and make them almost maintenance free. Others are saying that wrapping is a bad idea because we will not be able to see if water seeps in (installation issues, caulk failure, etc..) and the wood starts rotting underneath or there is issues with termites.
I see the logic in both cases and thus totally confused. What is the general consensus? Wrap or no?
Thanks!
Aluminum Wrap for brick molding
Re: Aluminum Wrap for brick molding
The capping should be installed so it doesn’t leak at the top and does get water it it gets kicked out over the sill. The drip cap is the most important and the sill detail is the fail safe.
- Windows on Washington
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Re: Aluminum Wrap for brick molding
+1.
No reason to "not wrap" the trim if done properly.
No reason to "not wrap" the trim if done properly.
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Re: Aluminum Wrap for brick molding
I agree with the other pros. Its (capping) almost a universal practice for a pocket installation by a window specialist. Most of the time when I hear guys saying not to do so, its because they aren't skilled installers that know how to use a trim brake and bend metal. As Todd alluded to, those "downsides" only apply when its not properly done.
Re: Aluminum Wrap for brick molding
My house is new construction and capped in aluminum by choice. My other house that I rent was bought in 1993 and was capped in aluminum before well before I bought it. It still looks good and zero issues with rot or water infiltration.
Re: Aluminum Wrap for brick molding
Go with the company that caps the exterior with aluminum. The nonsense about not being able to see water damage is just that; nonsense.
Re: Aluminum Wrap for brick molding
I’m with Ricky, if company is not comfortable capping your windows correctly, I’d doubt there capabilities in general. It has been industry standard for years. If it is done wrong It will accelerate trim rot.
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Re: Aluminum Wrap for brick molding
I agree capping if done well will give be best option. More than likely provide 20+ years of no maintenance. You might ask if the offer a profiled/brick mold cap, this normally would say to me that they are a few steeps above the rest. Ask for a sample or a previous project to look at.
A time when capping does not make sense is in historic application where they want the full detail left original and want the painting cycle. In cases like this we normally do a small finish cap ( from the receiver groove to the exterior casing and seal with a paintable caulk).
A time when capping does not make sense is in historic application where they want the full detail left original and want the painting cycle. In cases like this we normally do a small finish cap ( from the receiver groove to the exterior casing and seal with a paintable caulk).
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