ᐅ Almost every window has scratches – what is considered normal?

Hello forum community,

Unfortunately, during the inspection for the electrical installation, we noticed that nearly all the windows have mechanical damage both on the inside plastic and the exterior aluminum cladding, in the form of scratches and abrasions.

The construction company has unfortunately already removed the protective film inside – seemingly even before installation. At some window sills, it appears as if the window was placed directly on the bare brickwork. On one window, there are two drill holes in the frame that were started in the wrong position.

From various Google searches, I understand that "minor scratches" are generally not considered valid grounds for a complaint. On the other hand, I would say that for a new build, one should still expect new, undamaged materials, right?

Is there a standard or guideline regarding acceptable scratches? We noticed these scratches despite the dust and dirt typical of a building shell.

Thanks & regards,
Daniel

We also found some scratches and fingerprints (on the glass) and filed a complaint.

I am paying for new products and expect to receive them as such.

You wouldn’t accept scratches on a new car either, right?

Everything that could be replaced was exchanged.

A friend of ours had a similar experience; he found scratches on more than 10 newly installed windows, and all of the scratches were repaired. When we built our house a few years ago, one of the panes had a scratch, and the glass was replaced. The frames were completely scratch-free and still are. It is definitely possible to install windows without any damage, especially since you are paying a lot of money for the new windows.

Best regards,
Sabine

Today I also took a look at the windows that were installed this week. We chose uPVC windows with an aluminum cladding on the outside.
I have to say the windows are far from perfect. Almost every window has small scratches or dirt marks. Some of the dirt could be removed with cleaning alcohol, but others could not. In some of the panes, there are also small inclusions visible.
Sometimes the aluminum cladding has gaps that are not quite right, or you can see slightly overflowing glue.
What I find particularly odd are the lower “covers” that finish the aluminum cladding. They look like white plastic that has only been lightly painted. When closed, this is hardly visible from the outside, but it could definitely be done better. I must admit I am often quite particular. However, my future neighbors also had similar minor defects. Glass inclusions were replaced. So far, I haven’t spoken with the window manufacturer yet. We’ll see what they say. Minor flaws in the plastic might probably be polished out.
In the second photo, you can see that the miter joint of the aluminum cladding does not fit perfectly, and one part protrudes further.

Phew, at least I'm not alone...

We had the appointment yesterday with the window specialist and the construction manager. The window installer didn’t show up. (Great, number 1 with an asterisk*).

The construction manager inspected everything closely (we also noticed a big dent on the inside of a door, and the seal at the top wasn’t closing properly anymore) and gave feedback today. According to the window installer, all this can be fixed and polished.

However, I’m worried about the dent—the entire patio door was misaligned there.

How was it with you: did the protective film stay on during the shell construction and installation phases? For us, it was removed right after installation...

World-e schrieb:
I have to say, I’m often quite particular.

Well, when it involves this much money... I’m being very thorough now. After all, I’ll be paying for it for the rest of my life^^

The protective film is completely in place and will remain until the last craftsman leaves the construction site.

As it arrived, so it stays. Karsten