[jboeckler]

Hello,

I'm in the process of building and I am concerned about how my windows are installed. I have MW Classic Vinyl windows installed and I understand that they have an integrated J Channel. I've been trying to find information on how they should be installed with Hardi Siding. The problem I see is that they are not flashed anywhere and have been caulked at the top and down a bit on the sides but the rest of the sides and bottom are un-caulked and this has left exposed hardi board edges and a way for water to get behind the siding.

I've been told by some that these are self-flashing units and they don't require the typical flashing methods however I have found websites that warn against using a J-Channel and that it must be flashed properly to allow the water to be routed out.

Can someone help explain this to me? And how the window should be flashed...etc? Or should they be caulked all the way around? I'm past the point of no return with these but I'm guessing that I would be better of doing something now than having wood rot later on.

I also have stone on the front of my house and I'm wondering if a different flashing method should be used here?

Regards,

Justin

By the way all of the windows but right up against the hardi planks and there is no trim board installed.

[stuccoman]

http://www.albertsroofing.com/Window%20Flashing.htm