Repair & Improve

Ten Tips For A Window Replacement Project

Communication is Key to Easing Homeowner Concerns

Installing replacement windows is a smart home improvement project.  But if prospect having your home opened to the elements leaves you feeling a bit queasy, there are some simple ways to prepare for the project. 

According to Bill Lazor, senior brand manager for Simonton Windows, homeowners are encouraged  to have a thorough discussion with their installer well in advance of the day the work is scheduled.  ‘A professional installer can ease concerns and answer questions well in advance of a replacement project. Good communications is the key to homeowners feeling comfortable and ready for an upcoming window replacement project,” he said.

Lazor offered some tips to put the minds of homeowners at ease before a window replacement project:

• Tip #1 – Window replacement is a progressive remodeling project. Only one or two windows are taken out at a time and then those windows are immediately replaced. The entire home will not resemble a piece of Swiss cheese with holes in it for birds, weather or animals to enter through during the replacement process.
• Tip #2 – Remove window treatments (including shades and blinds) before the installers arrive to give them easy access to the windows. Additional glass ornaments or decorations should also be removed from the windows, ledges and sills.
  Tip #3 – Pre-determine with your installer how much space will be needed to operate inside and outside the home for each window. Some furnishings may need to be moved away from windows and breakables taken off wall shelves. On the outside, ladders may need to be used in gardens or bushes to reach windows for replacement.
• Tip #4 – Decide and communicate with the installation team which doors will be used to gain access to the home, which restrooms are available for crew use and what procedures you feel most comfortable with for home access.
• Tip #5 – Kids, pets and contractors --- they’re like oil and water. For safety sake, make arrangements to keep young children and family pets secured and away from workers at all times.
• Tip #6 – When selecting a window installer, make sure to request paperwork that assures you that the entire installation team is bonded and insured.
• Tip #7 – Double check the paperwork that comes with new windows … and the windows themselves.  If you requested ENERGY STAR® qualified windows, make sure the stickers are on the window. If you asked for low-maintenance vinyl frames, double check to make sure you receive them. And, if you see any broken glass or damaged frames, make sure to bring that to the attention of your installer before the windows are placed in your home. Also make certain to save your window warranty information in a secure location.
• Tip #8 – Discuss removal of your old windows with your installer. Sometimes either the new or used windows may need to be stored at your residence for several days. Direct the team where to store the windows, how to protect them and a timeframe for removal.
• Tip #9 – Find out your installer’s weather policy. While they may be fine working in the rain or snow, you may not want the interior of your home to get muddy or wet. Decide together what are acceptable weather conditions for your project.
• Tip #10 – Ask about cleanup. There’s a fair amount of dust and mess that comes with a window replacement project. Discuss beforehand if furnishings should be covered during the installation process and what the company’s policy is for clean-up after installation both inside and outside the home.

Says Lazor, “When communicating in advance about concerns and expectations, the actual installation process itself can go quite smoothly for both the homeowner and the installer.”

Print Version

Search Related Topics: Contractors, Energy Savings, Windows & Skylights...