Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

Using heavy, asphalt-saturated kraft papers with high enough permeance to meet code, I start with the sills, running a 16-inch-wide strip of 60-minute paper flush with the rough opening and 8 inches past both jambs.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

I use prefabricated plastic corners made by Grace (the company calls them "Vycorners"). These get tacked into both corners.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

I use a 6-inch-wide peel-and-stick membrane that doesn't require a primer to form a seal to both the bare wood sill and the paper beneath.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

The paper is sliced at the corners to make the turn.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

I double up 2-inch strips of peel-and-stick, using them as drainage spacers; if any water gets into the opening, this will allow it to drain.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

I install paper flush with the jambs, starting several inches above the opening and running it to the bottom of the sill paper.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

I drive 2-inch galvanized nails into the center of every other nail hole in the bottom and side flanges.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

Once the window is nailed off, I use a 3-inch flashing tape, 3M 8067, to seal the flange to the paper along the jambs.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

After cutting the paper above the window at 45 degrees and folding it up out of the way, I tuck in the flashing and nail it directly to the sheathing with the same 2-inch nails I used for the window flanges.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

I fold the paper back down and patch the corner cuts with a flashing tape.

Weathertight Windows, Images 1-11

I trim the paper at the height of the end dam, using my square as a guide.

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