Tips for Living Through A Window Replacement Project

Fear of the unknown coupled with lack of knowledge. That’s what sometimes leads people to ask their window installer questions like, “Will birds fly in my house when you take my windows out?” and “If it rains, should I close my windows before you replace them?” Experts at Simonton Windows®, manufacturers of vinyl replacement windows, offer some practical tips for homeowners who are having their windows replaced.

“Since many homeowners live in their homes for only a decade or less, they haven’t had to face a full window replacement project before,” says Bill Lazor, senior product manager for Simonton Windows. “Communications between the homeowner and the installer is the true answer. A window replacement project is a large and important investment for a homeowner. Consumers should feel free to ask their installer as many questions as they need to in order to feel comfortable and knowledgeable about their window replacement project.”

Lazor offers these tips to homeowners facing a window replacement project:

Tip #1 – Window replacement is a progressive remodeling project --- in most cases only one window will be taken out at a time and then immediately replaced. This reduces the chance that your home will be vulnerable to weather, birds, animals or theft during the replacement.

Tip #2 – Remove window treatments before your installer arrives (including shades and blinds) to give them easy access to the windows. You’ll also want to remove any glass ornaments or decorations from the windows, sills and ledges.

Tip #3 – Installers need space both inside and outside the home to replace windows. Move furnishings away from windows and if you have shelves with antiques or collectibles on them, it’s a good idea to place those items on a table or another secure location during the installation. Access will also be needed to the exterior of the home near the windows. If you have prized flower gardens or bushes, discuss beforehand with the installer to make sure they are especially careful.

Tip #4 – Ask questions … especially about timing. A good installer can give you a solid estimate of how long it will take to replace each window along with an overall estimate on the entire job. Ask about their start and end times for a day, when breaks are taken, etc.

Tip #5 – Discuss the weather. Many installers can work in all kinds of weather because they replace windows quickly and efficiently. However, make certain to ask about their weather policies and make sure you feel comfortable with their plans.

Tip #6 – Decide with the installer which entrance his team should use during the installation, which restrooms are available to them and what procedures you feel most comfortable with for having the team go in and out of your home during the project.

Tip #7 – Kids, pets and contractors --- they’re like oil and water. For safety sake, make arrangements to keep your children and family pets out of the workers’ way at all times.

Tip #8 – Determine up front if your installer is bonded and insured. Make certain to request copies of paperwork so you’ll know for sure your home and property are protected in case of an accident.

Tip #9 – Discuss storage of your new windows before the project starts. Some installers keep everything on their truck; others may want to store units in your garage. Determine early what procedures will take place to protect your new windows before they’re installed. This is also a good time to ask your contractor how he plans to dispose of your old windows.

Tip #10 – Talk about clean-up. As you can imagine, there’s a fair amount of dust and mess that comes about with window replacements. Ask your installer what furnishings (if any) near window openings should be covered during the process and to what extent they’ll assist in the clean-up effort.

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Author Notes:

Bill Lazor contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.replacement-windows-n-shutters.com. Everything you need for replacement windows; sizing, purchasing, installing and maintaining.