Replacement Window FAQ: How to Prepare for Your Installation 

The time has come to replace your windows. You have found the perfect window and the best window replacement contractor for the job. The hardest part of it all is finally over - it is almost all out of your hands, except now you have to prepare for the installation of your new windows. Do not worry, it is not hard, there are several key steps you can take to ensure your new window installation runs as smoothly and quickly as possible. In this article, we are giving you some of our best tips to help you prepare for a successful window installation. 

1. Confirm Details With Your Contractor 

The first step is a very simple one: confirm all the details with your window replacement contractor. It is a good idea to do this one to two days prior. Confirm that the date is still good, and what time you can expect your installer to arrive.

2. Move Items Away From Windows

This might seem obvious but people do easily forget when they are swept up in the project. Moving items away from the window gives your installers easy access to all areas around your windows. Of course, you need to move things like blinds and drapes, but if you have a lounge chair under your window, a rug, lights… anything near your windows (even art) should be moved at least 3 feet away. 

3. Keep Kids and Pets Secure 

For the safety of your children and pets, we recommend close supervision or even leaving them with friends or family for the duration of the window installation. With installers coming in and out all day, it is possible your pets could escape. Meanwhile, any large home improvement project offers the opportunity for children to come into contact with materials that could pose a danger. That is why it is always best to have them stay with family, or a friend, during the installation. 

4. Give Your Contractor a Rundown 

On the day of your installation, run through the project again with the project lead to make sure nothing will be missed. Show them where the new windows are going, and let them know of any concerns you have. This is a good opportunity to discuss how the project will flow, confirm the replacement windows are exactly as you ordered and how to handle any out of scope repairs. 

5. Give Installer Room, But Be Available for Questions 

Now is the time to sit back, relax and let the installation team do their job. However, it is always a good idea to hang around in case they have any questions. If it is not possible to be there on the day, make sure your installer has your phone number in case of emergencies.

6. Expect Some Mess 

Some mess is to be expected during a window replacement project. However, your window installers should take reasonable precautions to avoid damage to your flooring and furnishings, such as having drop cloths inside your home under the windows. Most installers will move the old windows to the outside of your home and then dispose of and clean-up as part of the project scope. 

7. Final Inspections 

Once the replacement windows have been set in place, the team will likely begin installing the exterior trim or cladding on your windows. Once that is done, your replacement window installers should clean up after themselves, removing any debris, tools and materials. Now is the time to complete a thorough inspection of each window.

And then you are all done and now able to enjoy your beautiful new windows. We hope this has helped ease any worry or anticipation about replacement window installations. If you have any extra questions, please get in touch, we are happy to offer advice or provide an obligation-free quote.