installing windows

[dug]

So I thought while waiting for my roof to arrive I'd install a few windows. Like most every other phase of my build this is uncharted territory for me. I have read a few articles and watched several videos which has only served to expand my confusion.

Some use a sill pan- some don't.
Some caulk the flanges, others (building science, for one) say it's not really necessary.
Some cut back the building wrap and tape the flashing directly to the sheathing, most tape the flashing over the top of the wrap (except top flashing).

There must be a right way and a wrong way. Anyone have an opinion as to which is which?

All I have seen or read involves tyvek type house wraps. I am using 30# felt, Does this change anything? Can you apply flashing tape on top of building felt?

[MountainDon]

Self adhesive flashing works over felt. Some of mine went through a winter that way.

Caulk under the window fin is probably redundant when self adhesive flashing tape is used. But it's insurance of a sort.

If the felt is on I would insert the windows, level and plumb them, screw/nail in place and use the flashing tape over the fin and felt. The only place I would cut the felt is at the top to form a flap that goes over the window fin.  I would not cut already installed wrap to tape the sides to the sheathing though.

Grace Building Products has instructions for flashing on their website. They have a couple methods. Each is correct, so no, there is not just one correct way to do it. However there are many wrong ways but we we don't need to go there.

[dug]

Thank you much Don. Maybe I'll give one a try today.

What about a sill pan? Is it O.K. to make one with the flashing tape? I see a lot of recommendations for using a product called (I think) flexi-wrap, which is not available around here.

[MountainDon]

I did my sill with flashing tape.  Just remember to apply the pieces so water is led to the surface and out. Start at middle bottom and work out and up with the overlaps.