Preparing for Your New Windows
If you are reading this, it means congratulations are in order! You are either taking the first step in finally replacing your windows and are researching the undertaking you may have in store or you are at the final step in a long road paved with moments of uncertainty and your new windows are finally a reality, both of which deserve to be celebrated. Either way, you are here with a goal to learn everything you need to know about Window Installation Day and we are here to help you – so let’s get on with it, shall we? Overall, we want to reassure you that while you may envision total chaos, it will likely come as a surprise how simple the day really is, especially if you are prepared.
Communication
The first and most important thing we want to go over is communication. When your windows are done being customly manufactured and are ready for installation, your Window Store Representative will contact you to set up an installation date and go over all of the details with you. You will also receive an email with these same details included. Your Window Store representative will go over everything you need to know for the day, but the main things you want to make sure you go over are:
- How long they expect the installation to take: Usually Window Installation takes less than a day, but it is also not a one size fits all process. Make sure to go over just how long you should expect your windows to take. This helps make planning your day much easier.
- Method of Installation: Be sure to confirm whether your windows will be installed from inside of your home, outside, or both, so you can properly prepare.
- Specific Requests: If there are any special instructions you have for the installation crew, make sure you make them known to your Window Store Representative. If you have a little one that will be napping during this time, if you have pets on the premises they need to note, if there is a specific entrance you’d like them to use, be sure to communicate any specific requests or questions you may have to your representative so the whole team is on the same page.
- Installation Date: Double check that you have the correct installation date on your calendar so you don’t get a surprise crew at your door on a day you weren’t expecting them.
Prepare Your Space
- Remove Window Furnishings and Alarms: Waiting to remove window furnishings and disconnect alarms until your installation crew is there to install your new windows can cause some major delays on install day. We highly recommend removing any blinds, curtains, and alarms from your windows before your installation. You may need to work with your security company when it comes to disconnecting any alarms, so we recommend looking into that a week before installation day.
- Clear Space Around Window: We recommend clearing about 5 feet of space around your windows both inside and outside. This always takes more time than you would think, so be sure to carve out space in your schedule before installation day, especially if you have bigger furniture that requires more effort to move or a lot of outdoor items surrounding your window. Please note, this also includes removing any pictures that are hanging on the wall or any planters or home decorations on the exterior of your home.
- Cover Your Furniture: Our installers do the best of their ability to keep things as clean as possible, but the reality is that new windows generate dust. Even though our installers do their best to clean up afterward, some of the dust takes a little longer to settle. Covering your furniture with drop cloths or old sheets can help make the cleanup process go a little quicker.
Create a Plan and Set Expectations for Install Day
Our team tries to be as courteous as possible on Installation Day, but your home is going to become a bit of a work zone nonetheless. There will be dust and noise and an installation crew coming in and out of your home installing your new windows. You’ll want to make sure to set these expectations with everyone in your home and designate safe zones for any children or pets to make sure they stay safely away from all of the activity. Communicate these zones to your installation team so they can help make the day as least disruptive as possible.
If it is easier for you to plan an activity, you do not have to feel any pressure to stay at home during the installation. Work out a plan with your project manager for entrance/exit points, communicate any specifics, and exchange any contact information in case anything comes up, and your trusted window team will take care of the rest.
Final Walkthrough with Your Installer
Make sure you plan time with your installer to look over your finished work and make sure everything is completed as you had planned at the end of your installation window. This is also the time where you can ask any questions you may have about your new windows – like how to clean them, change out screens, any follow-up care to help keep them healthy for longer, etc.
And that really is all there is to it. If you set aside just a little bit of time to prepare, your window installation day will truly be a breeze – pun intended. You can read more below for some of our most commonly asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Will My Window Installation Take?
While we would love to give an exact number, it really depends on your home and scope of project. Typically a full-frame replacement window on ground level takes 4-6 hours to install while upper level windows tend to take a little longer. Your Window Store Representative will be able to give you an estimate of your specific timeline ahead of time.
Will My Walls Be Damaged During Installation?
Our installers are all highly trained professionals and know how to install windows without damaging the surrounding walls. There are rare cases where existing damage, like rotted wood or water damage, is found when your installer removes the old window. They will be able to best advise you on next steps, and whether or not the damage has to be dealt with before continuing the rest of installation of that window.
Will All of My Windows Be Removed at Once?
This is the most common misconception of replacing windows. Windows are replaced one at a time. There is only a very short amount of time where there is no window in your home. While you may notice a slight temperature difference on very cold or very hot days, the difference will be minimal, and your home will be safe from climate extremes and pests, we promise.
Will My Windows Be Clean After Installation?
Our Walsh Windows come with a protective film that is applied directly at the factory and is not removed until your installer is done. This keeps the windows crystal clear until after installation.
Are Windows Installed from Inside or Outside of My Home?
Most of our installations are done from inside the home, but we do sometimes need to work both inside and outside of your home. That is why it is important to clear space around the windows both inside and outside of your home. Your project manager will be able to let you know exactly how your windows will be installed.
Excellent service, finished the job quickly and they exceeded my expectations all around! I highly recommend them.
The Window Store did work on our home post insurance claim from storm damage. I was incredibly impressed with the staff, and workers through this process. They were very transparent, honest, and timely in communications. The work was completed on time and looks great. Thanks again!
These guys were great! Jimbo made it easy to understand the whole process and the workers did a great job.
Very professional for both windows and cabinets. They offered great suggestions for our cabinets and the end product turned out great.