Windows Scope of Work Checklist: Flashing, Screens, and Stickers (CSI 08 50 00)

Windows are the “eyes” of the house, but for a General Contractor, they are the number one source of water intrusion lawsuits.

The complexity in bidding windows comes from the fact that they are often purchased from a “Supplier” but installed by a “Framer” or a specialist “Window Crew.” When the product and the labor are separated, responsibility falls through the cracks.

To ensure your building envelope is secure, use this Windows Scope of Work Checklist (aligned with CSI Division 08).

The Standard Inclusions (The “Must Haves”)

Your bid needs to confirm exactly what is coming off the truck:

• Unit Supply: The window units themselves (Vinyl, Wood-Clad, Aluminum).
• Glazing Spec: Verification of Low-E, Argon gas, or Tempered glass where required by code.
• Screens: Supply of fiberglass or aluminum mesh screens for all operable sash.
• Grilles/Muntins: The grid pattern (Simulated Divided Lite vs. Between-the-Glass).
• Extension Jambs: Wood extensions to match the wall depth (e.g., 2x6 walls).
• Hardware: Cranks, locks, and latches (specify color: White, Oil Rubbed Bronze, etc.).

The “Scope Gaps” (Where You Lose Money)

1. Flashing Material (The Waterproofing)

• The Trap: The Framer installs the window but asks, “Where is the flashing tape?” The Window Supplier says, “We sell windows, not tape.”
• The Fix: Explicitly state who supplies the “Flashing System” (e.g., Zip Tape, flashing tape, drip cap). It is usually best to have the GC supply this to ensure quality, but the labor to install it must be in the installer’s scope.

2. Tempering (Safety Glass)

Code requires safety glass near doors, floors, and in bathrooms.

• The Trap: The Supplier misses a tempering note on the plans. The Inspector fails you. The replacement sash takes 6 weeks and costs $500.
• The Fix: Put the burden on the Supplier: “Supplier to verify all Tempered locations per local code prior to ordering.”

3. Final Cleaning (Sticker Removal)

• The Trap: The project is done. The windows are covered in manufacturer stickers and construction dust. The window cleaners charge extra to scrape the stickers.
• The Fix: Require the Installer to “Remove all non-essential labels and protective film” upon installation (leave the NFRC energy sticker for the inspector!).

4. Mulled Units (Field vs. Factory)

• The Trap: You have a large bank of three windows. They arrive as three separate boxes. The installer says, “I didn’t bid to mull (join) these together in the field.”
• The Fix: Always specify “Factory Mulled” where possible. It is stronger and less likely to leak. If they must be joined in the field, ensure “Field Mulling” is in the labor bid.

Interface Points (Coordination)

• vs. Siding: The Window Installer must set the window plumb and square. The Sider installs the J-channel or casing around it. If the window is crooked, the trim will look terrible.
• vs. Alarm System: If the house has hard-wired security, the Alarm company needs to drill the sensors before the windows are set, or use wireless sensors.
• vs. Drywall: Who does the “returns”? If the window has no wood trim (drywall return), the window needs a specific channel (J-bead) to receive the drywall.

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Reviewing Window Packages with Bid Bench

Window quotes are often 50-page PDFs with confusing size codes (e.g., “3050 SH”).

Bid Bench streamlines the audit:

1. Size Count: Our AI counts the quantity of windows in the bid and matches it against your Architectural Schedule.
2. Tempering Check: It scans for the keyword “Tempered” or “Safety Glass” to ensure high-risk areas are covered.
3. Screen Verification: It checks if screens are listed as a line item or excluded (a common trick to lower the bid price).

See clearly through your budget.
[Start your 30-day free trial of Bid Bench today.]