The decision to put in replacement windows comes with a lot of preparatory work first. You need to realize how much time and effort goes into this process and it starts even before one day of work is performed at your home. What you should also realize is that the job can take more than a couple of days to complete, based on how many and what type of windows are being done.
Removal and installation are going to represent some upheaval in your normal routine and if you don’t have the best contractor on the job, the work could take even longer than you might expect. You may even find that you need to have the job performed twice, the second contractor fixing the mistakes of the previous installer.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, we’re going to be sure that you do everything to prepare for the installation of your new windows properly so the work can be performed with the best results.
Choosing the Right Installer
Your preparations begin well before you do anything around the house to make room for the work to be performed. Start by hiring the best contractor for the job. That means doing your homework and shopping around for the installer that you can trust. Ask questions.
Find out how long they’ve been in business. Is this a company who has a long track record of success (or disgruntled customers) or is it a new company that has just started doing this kind of work? References are key here, find out what kind of work they’ve done for other clients. Are those folks happy with the results? A company that’s been around for 12 months can be just as reliable as one that’s been in business for 12 years.
Next find out if the company is fully insured. Every window contractor should maintain at least comprehensive liability coverage and a worker’s comp policy. These are the bare minimum that are necessary for ensuring that you are protected should something happen during the job. Ask to see their certificates and make sure they are up to date. You want proof of a valid policy and any responses that don’t offer such proof should probably disqualify that candidate.
If you are satisfied that you have hired the right contractor now you can get ready for the part where they come to your home and do the work.
Remove all window treatments
The contractor is going to be working on your windows, so you want to take away anything that might impede their ability to do that work. So, take down any window treatments that you have put up, such as blinds, shades, curtains, drapes. All of it.
Be sure to get the hardware and accessories while you’re at it. Anything and everything that might prevent the installer from getting to the window completely. You don’t want to have the contractor wasting precious time doing this.
Clear a path to the window
Replacing your vinyl windows will require workers to come in and out of your house while they work. They will be carrying heavy equipment and tools back and forth, you want to make it as easy as possible for them to do the job right, so try to avoid forcing them to navigate around all of your furniture and other belongings. Make way in the rooms where your windows are being installed. Remove furniture or, at the very least, shift it all away from the windows in question. Examine the room and ensure that the workers have a clear path to and from the windows. You don’t want anyone to trip and fall or unintentionally damage something by mistake.
Choose the best time
Having your windows worked on in the dead of summer can result in your home’s climate-controlled interior air escaping outdoors. Homeowners who are concerned about spending on their energy bills may want to consider choosing a time that allows them to live without having their air conditioner running to stay cool. Similarly, having the windows replaced when the temperatures are falling could result in the home’s heated air going to waste.
If this is a concern for you, choose the time to install your replacement windows carefully. Maybe wait when the seasonal temperatures are milder so you don’t run your HVAC at a loss. Window replacement can be done at almost any time of the year, so put some real strategy and calculated thought into finding that balance between having your new windows and reliance upon your heating and cooling systems.
