New-build windows

New construction window installation across San Diego County

ADU construction is reshaping San Diego neighborhoods, and every new unit needs windows installed into rough openings before drywall goes up. We connect general contractors and homeowners with insured local window crews experienced in new construction window installation, from standard residential additions to detached ADUs and full new builds.

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Window crew setting new construction windows into rough openings in an ADU framed in San Diego

What's included in this service?

Coordinate with the GC or homeowner on window schedule, rough opening sizes, and header requirements before framing begins
Verify that rough opening dimensions match the specified window units before ordering
Install windows into framed rough openings using nail-fin or flange attachment per manufacturer and California Building Code requirements
Flash each rough opening with self-adhering membrane before setting the window, and apply exterior housewrap or weather barrier laps per code
Verify that all units meet California Title 24 energy compliance for the permitted plans
Provide the GC with installed NFRC labels and documentation for the permit inspection package

When do you need this service?

A detached or attached ADU is under construction and needs windows installed before drywall
A room addition or second-story addition is being framed and needs new windows in the exterior wall
A garage conversion to living space requires new window openings for egress, light, and ventilation
A full new build project needs a window installation subcontractor as part of the construction schedule
An existing window opening is being repositioned or enlarged as part of a renovation with a building permit

What do homeowners ask about New-build windows?

What is the difference between new construction windows and replacement windows?

New construction windows are designed to be attached to the rough opening framing via a nail fin (also called a nailing flange) around the perimeter of the unit. This flange is covered by the weather barrier and exterior finish. Replacement windows are designed to fit inside an existing opening or frame without a nail fin. Using a replacement window where a new construction window is specified is a common error that causes waterproofing failures.

What rough opening size do I need for a new window?

Rough opening size depends on the window unit's nominal size and the manufacturer's specified rough opening, which adds 1/2 inch to 1 inch in each dimension for shimming and leveling. Your framing plans should call out rough opening dimensions for each window, which come from the window schedule. The crews we refer can review the window schedule before framing starts to confirm everything is correct.

Do ADU windows in San Diego need to meet Title 24?

Yes. ADUs in San Diego are permitted under California building code and must comply with Title 24 energy standards for the climate zone. The window schedule on the permitted plans specifies the maximum U-factor and SHGC for each opening. The crews we refer verify that the specified product meets Title 24 before ordering and provide the NFRC documentation for the permit inspection.

How long does window installation take for an ADU in San Diego?

A standard 400-600 square foot stand-alone accessory structure with 6-10 windows typically takes 1-2 days for the window crew to set and flash all units, assuming the rough openings are framed and the weather barrier staging is ready. Larger ADUs or projects with custom-sized windows may take longer. Coordinate the window installation with the GC so it falls in the right sequence before insulation and drywall.

Can Window Pro SD refer crews for both ADU windows and the rest of the ADU build?

Window Pro SD is a referral service focused on window and glass door installation. We connect homeowners and GCs with insured local window crews. For the broader ADU construction scope, we recommend verifying any general contractor's license at cslb.ca.gov before signing a contract. If you are managing the ADU build yourself, we can coordinate the window crew as one trade in your subcontractor schedule.