You’ve set an appointment for replacement window installation. Now what? Most homeowners only go through this process once or twice in a lifetime, so if you have no idea what to expect, you’re in good company. While every situation is unique, here are the basic expectations for an appointment with your window installers.
Before Your Installation
Strip Your Windows
Remove any drapes, shades, and blinds before the installers arrive, so they’ll have easy access to each window. If you have plants, picture frames, or other decorations on the window sill, you’ll want to move those out of the way, too.
Clear a Path
Your installers need a clear path to your windows, both indoors and out. Inside your home, remove toys, furniture, rugs, lamps, and any breakable items. Outside your home, clear potential obstacles like barbecue grills, flower pots, outdoor toys, and patio furniture. You want to move anything that could cause delay or harm.
Protect Your Space
It’s safe to expect cutting, caulking, and painting with this project. Drop cloths will protect your floors and furniture inside, and your flower beds and other landscaping outside.
Designate Access for Installers
Decide in advance which doors the crew will use to enter and exit your home. Communicate this information with the installers before they arrive.
Make Arrangements for Children and Pets
Be sure to make prior arrangements for your children and/or pets before the installation to keep them—and our installation team—safe.
During the Installation
Walkthrough With the Installer
Before work begins, complete a quick walk-through with the installer to go over each window that needs to be replaced. Be sure the correct windows were delivered and everyone knows which windows to address.
Check the Window Labels
Double-check the labels on your new windows. If you ordered ENERGY STAR® qualified windows, but the labels read otherwise, you’ll want to have this addressed before work begins.
Old Windows Will be Replaced
Depending on the size of the job, you will more than likely have a crew of several people in your home. One group of installers will remove windows as the others bring in new ones. Periodically, old windows are moved outside. Window World does one-for-one replacements, which means windows are removed and replaced at the same time. Other than unforeseen circumstances, there should not be an instance where an installer has moved on to another window and left an opening with no window.
Installers Will Add Exterior Cladding
The installers will add an exterior trim to your windows. The trim, or cladding, is designed to provide a weathertight seal.
Be Available
Don’t hesitate to ask questions and be involved in your project, but avoid hovering or micromanaging the crew, which can impede progress. Be confident in the installers’ ability to do their job well. They may not need your input at all during the installation process.
Be Prepared For the Unexpected
Broken glass, cracked backsplash tile, the discovery of existing water damage — these things are rare but can happen. You can’t plan for every mishap that may occur during a renovation, so it’s best to go into the situation prepared for whatever happens.
After the Installation
Test Your Windows
Take time to open, close, lock, and unlock each new window as soon as possible. If you notice any issues, the sooner you report them to the window company, the better.
Ensure Your House is Clean
This doesn’t mean your home will be dirt- and dust-free, but the crew should have taken care to leave your house as close to the way they found it as possible. Keep in mind that after having an entire crew of people in and out of your home, as well as intermittent exposure to outdoor elements, you’ll probably need a deeper cleaning than the one they provide.
Check For Windows or Tools Left Behind
Check to make sure the old windows have been removed from outside your home and that the crew didn’t forget any tools or materials.
Get the Best of Window Installation with Window World of Joliet
Window World of Joliet is proud to offer the best in replacement windows, doors, and siding. Request your free estimate today and take the next steps to build your dream home.