Though replacing the windows in your home may seem like a significant inconvenience, be glad you don’t live in Buckingham Palace. With 760 windows, the process of replacing them must be a month-long event!
As windows are limited in their lifespan, you’ll likely need to replace the windows in your home, as they can wear down over time. Having new windows installed is an involved process, so getting your home ready for the project is crucial to ensuring the job is completed smoothly.
If you’re having your windows replaced, knowing how to prepare for the day of the job is crucial. Keep reading to learn how to get your home ready for the project.
Talk With Your Window Company
Before you begin preparing your home, you’ll want to talk with your window installers. This will give you an idea of what to expect during the process and a general time frame of how long it will take to complete the project.
You’ll also want to make them aware of any windows with sentimental or monetary value, such as antiques. Be sure to inform them of the location and how you’d like them to handle the glass. You will also want to place a note on the window as an additional precaution.
When it comes to window delivery, going over the order with the project manager before replacement starts is essential. This step gives you the opportunity to check to ensure everything looks right, and the measurements are correct.
Plan for Pets and Childcare
As the process of home window replacement involves tools, heavy panes of glass, and wood, ensuring you have a plan for your pets and children is crucial.
The last thing you want is someone injured because a small child or puppy wanders into the area!
If possible, scheduling a playdate or dropping your children off with a trusted friend or family member during the day the project is scheduled can help keep your little ones safe.
Similarly, keeping pets away from the construction can be tricky, so keeping them in a closed-off area in your home will prevent them from stepping on debris, tripping workers, and getting too close to windows that may not have glass in them.
Deactivate Alarms
If you have an alarm system connected to your windows, ensuring you disable them before work begins is crucial.
Not only does this make installation more difficult as the workers will need to stop working until the alarm has been disabled, but it also puts your system at risk. If installation damages your system, it can pose a security risk.
Similarly, removing any security bars or child safety locks on the window before the workers begin is essential to making their job simpler. Plus, they may not know how to remove these devices, which puts them at risk of damaging your property.
Clear the Area
Next, you’ll need to clear the area where the windows will be replaced. This step is essential, as it protects your furniture and makes the job easier for workers.
If you have heavy furniture in front of the windows, it means the workers will need to spend extra time carefully moving your belongings. This will only elongate the process!
Clearing a path for window installation also includes ensuring the outside of your window is clear and easily accessible. This is especially true for patio windows, as furniture can make it more difficult for workers to complete the job.
Remove Treatments
Similarly, you’ll need to remove any, and all valances, curtains, and blinds from the windows before the workers arrive. You will also need to remove the shutters on your home’s exterior.
You may also want to remove any wall hangings that are near the windows, as they may accidentally fall off during the process.
Lay Down Tarp
The process of installing windows can be messy, so ensuring you make cleanup as simple as possible is crucial during the job.
Placing a tarp on your floor helps prevent dust and bits of wood from littering your flooring or becoming embedded in the carpet. Investing in plastic floor and furniture coverings makes cleanup much easier as you won’t have to spend hours vacuuming and dusting.
You can also lay a tarp down gently on top of flowerbeds to prevent dirt and dust from suffocating any plants you’d like to keep safe.
Give the Workers Space
Giving the workers space means two things; letting them do their job effectively and providing them ample space to set up their equipment.
The construction workers are the professionals! They’ve likely replaced thousands of windows, so giving them the space they need to work is essential to ensuring the job is completed quickly.
However, this isn’t to say you should completely disregard them. You can speak up if you notice that they are handling a window that you didn’t want to be replaced or if you’ve provided special instructions that are ignored.
On the flip side, you’ll also want to offer them a location to store their equipment or take breaks. This doesn’t have to be a central part of your home, but designating a spot helps the workers keep their equipment handy.
Having New Windows Installed Is Simple
Keeping these tips in mind will help to ensure the window replacement process is as smooth and simple as possible.
If you’re ready to have new windows installed, thanks to the help of this guide, you’ll want to check out the rest of our website. There, you’ll find more of the best home, and real estate hacks to make the most of your property.