Inspector Is Making Me Replace All New Windows - HELP

[Delicia M.]

I am renovating a small 700 sq ft 2bd 1ba house in Georgetown, SC. I purchased 10 new windows from Home Depot and had them installed. The inspector came out today and said I need to replace the new DP 36 windows with DP 50 windows. I'm not using a contactor (lesson learnt).

I'm surprise Home Depot would sell windows that are not meant for that area. DP 36 windows should withstand 54 pounds of pressure. DP 50 can withstand 75 pounds of pressure. How do I find out what type of windows I can use for a house that's 700 sq ft in South Carolina? Is there anything I can do to the new windows to increase the poundage of pressure it can withstand?

[Will Barnard]

Why did you do this level of rehab without a licensed contractor? Lesson learned I guess. They know the codes and for items like framing (which includes window installation and flashings, having an experienced contractor do the work and provide you a warranty is worth doing.

HD and other retailers sell all kinds of items that do not meet local city codes. Here in So Cal, they sell lighting fixtures and light bulbs that do not meet current codes, toilets and faucets, etc. They are a nationwide store and each city will have their own building codes so it is important to perform your research first or hire out to a professional in these cases.