We are looking for advice/suggestions on the best window flashing method and materials on a ICF home. Below is the project information. We have talked to several installers and all have different ideas. Below are two of the options propsed by different installers. Installer one is what our builder proposes. This installer however is not certified or insured. Installer 2 is Tyvek certified and has insurance.
FoxBlock ICF
2×12 Pressure Treated Window Bucks
Jeld Wen Siteline EX Wood Glad Windows with Naling flange
Exterior Finish Brick Venner with 1 inch air gap
Building is Located in South Texas. Hot and very humid.
Suresill Pans and HeadFlash
33 Windows
Installer 1 –
Suggests the Following:
Seal entire buck with Aqua Flash
Install Sure Sill Window pan and seal corners with Aqua Flash
Put in Window and Nail
Seal Sides and top with Aqua Flash
Install Sure Sill Head Pan and Aqua Flash Top
One concern with Aqua Flash is it is designed ot be covered with Stucco. Not sure if humid air will have any effect on it or break it down. Another concerned is that Aqua Flash can develop holes and if not installed by skiller labor can leak.
Installer 2
Seal bottom of buck with Tyvek Liquid Flash
Install Sure Sill Window pan and seal tape corners using StraightFlash or FlexTape
Put in Window and Nail
Seal Sides and top with StraightFlash tape
Install Sure Sill Head Pan and seal with StraightFlash tape
Replies
YOur project spec's are lacking. If you want relevant advice, then give relevant information. For example, proposed plane of the window with respect to buidling envelope, proposed WRB details, exterior finishes & counter flashings, etc. IF you don't have drawings specifications for your windows that have been prepared by a qualified designer, then consider hiring one to provide them.
Also, what is the relevence of an installers insurance with respect to window flashing? Is your installer's insurance going to cover future damage in the event of a faulty install? I doubt it. If so, then to what extent...and for how long? General Liabliity insurance and worker's comp. certificates probably aren't going to cover your concerns. Most professional installers should have that type of coverage anyhow. Rule out anyone that doesn't as a matter of course to begin with.
And Tyvek certifed as a point of consideration? Are you joking? Ask for professional referrals, construction photos, etc. Visit finished homes with similar details and/or discuss degree of satisfaction by previous customers. In short, do your due diligence. This forum won't check that box for you. And remember, Dupont's not going to stand behind your window install no matter what you think. They're here to sell material and warranty the performance of their material only.
My first reaction to reading your post is why is the GC not taking care of this issue for you?
In response to your post, i would recommend tyvek. they come out with quality material that if installed properly will hold up to your humid temps no problem. Make sure that the flashing details are followed properly and you should be able to sleep at night...
although i know some very good contractors who work completly outside the bounds of governed regulations, the fact that they do not carry licenses, insurance or certifications as they should make people hesitant to hire them.
there are plenty of licensed, insured and or certified clowns out there as well (case and point your first reply on this topic)
What are the plans calling for as a flashing system?
whats your gc's input on a system?