Preparing for a Window Replacement Project : Tips to Ease Homeowner Concerns
contents and photos provided by Simonton Windows
“Since many homeowners have lived in their homes for only a decade or less, most people have not faced a full window replacement project before,” says Bill Lazor,
senior brand manager for Simonton Windows. “A professional installer can ease concerns and answer questions well in advance of a replacement project. Good communication
is the key to homeowners feeling comfortable and ready for an upcoming window replacement project.”
Lazor offers some easy tips and pieces of information to put the minds of homeowners at ease before a window replacement project:
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Tip #1 – Window replacement is a progressive remodeling project. Only one or two windows are taken out at a time and then those windows are immediately replaced.
The entire home will not resemble a piece of Swiss cheese with holes in it for birds, weather or animals to enter through during the replacement process.
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Tip #2 – Remove window treatments (including shades and blinds) before the installers arrive to give them easy access to the windows. Additional glass ornaments
or decorations should also be removed from the windows, ledges and sills.
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Tip #3 – Pre-determine with your installer how much space will be needed to operate inside and outside the home for each window. Some furnishings may need to be
moved away from windows and breakables taken off wall shelves. On the outside, ladders may need to be used in gardens or bushes to reach windows for replacement.
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Tip #4 – Decide and communicate with the installation team which doors will be used to gain access to the home, which restrooms are available for crew use and
what procedures you feel most comfortable with for home access.
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Tip #5 – Kids, pets and contractors – they’re like oil and water. For safety sake, make arrangements to keep young children and family pets secured
and away from workers at all times.
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Tip #6 – When selecting a window installer, make sure to request paperwork that assures you that the entire installation team is bonded and insured.
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Tip #7 – Double check the paperwork that comes with new windows…and the windows themselves. If you requested ENERGY STAR® qualified windows, make sure the
stickers are on the window. If you asked for low-maintenance vinyl frames, double check to make sure you receive them. And, if you see any broken glass or damaged frames, make sure to bring
that to the attention of your installer before the windows are placed in your home. Also make certain to save your window warranty information in a secure location.
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Tip #8 – Discuss removal of your old windows with your installer. Sometimes either the new or used windows may need to be stored at your residence for several days.
Direct the team where to store the windows, how to protect them and a timeframe for removal.
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Tip #9 – Discuss your installer’s weather policy. While they may be fine working in the rain or snow, you may not want the interior of your home to get muddy or wet.
Decide together what are acceptable weather conditions for your project.
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Tip #10 – Ask about cleanup. There’s a fair amount of dust and mess that comes with a window replacement project. Discuss beforehand if furnishings should be covered
during the installation process and what the company’s policy is for clean-up after installation, both inside and outside the home.
“A key tip is that homeowners should reevaluate the effectiveness of their windows seasonally,” says Lazor. “For maximum energy efficiency, windows should generally be replaced every
15-20 years. When it comes time to replace windows, homeowners should make certain to investigate the latest energy features, low maintenance frames and other options.
“When communicating in advance about concerns and expectations, the actual installation process itself can go quite smoothly for both the homeowner and the installer.”
Checking for accuracy of installation in a replacement project.
