Home renovation projects can seriously interrupt your daily routines. When the tools come out and homeowners are frantically cleaning up before the installation crew arrives, it’s normal to feel stressed.
While window installation is one of the faster renovation projects—usually taking roughly an hour for each new window—it’s no less of a disruption. So how do you protect your peace and make sure your home doesn’t turn into construction chaos? In this guide, we’ll teach you how to prepare your home for window installation to make sure the process occurs without a hitch.
Move Furniture and Decorations Away From the Windows
Before the installers arrive, clear the space around the windows. Start by moving any furniture that might be in the way like couches, tables, or shelves. You should also put away decorations like picture frames, clocks, or mirrors to avoid accidental damage.
Be sure to provide the crew with a designated path to work. Give them enough room to maneuver their tools and equipment safely. This simple preparation step not only protects your belongings but also speeds up the installation process because the crew can get to work without unnecessary delays.
Take Down All Window Treatments
Turn your attention to any window treatments. Curtains, blinds, shades, and more all need to come down. Removing these not only ensures they stay clean and undamaged during window installation but also allows the installers full access to the windows. If you have curtain rods or brackets attached, consider removing those as well, unless the team communicates that this step isn’t necessary.
Lastly, store each of these items in a safe spot where they won’t get dirty or wrinkled. Once the project is complete, your window treatments will be ready to go back up.
Protect Furniture and Floors
To keep your furniture and floors in great shape, give them a little extra protection. Move small pieces of furniture out of the room if possible. For large items that you can’t relocate, cover them with drop cloths or old sheets to shield them from dust and debris.
You can safeguard the floors with tarps, plastic sheeting, or flattened cardboard for high-traffic areas. These are easy ways to prevent scuffs or scratches on the surface.
Clean the Installation Areas
Before the installation team arrives, take some time to tidy up the areas where they’ll be working. Clear away any clutter or fragile items so there’s plenty of room for tools and equipment.
Dust and sweep the area to help ensure everything starts off on the right foot—this small step can actually prevent excess dirt particles from getting kicked up during the process. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your space clean long after the installation team leaves.
Plan for Weather Conditions
Weather can be unpredictable, but a little forethought can help avoid unnecessary errors on installation day. If this project is taking place during the colder months, prepare to keep the heat off in the area the team is working on to avoid escalating your electricity bills. Turn on ceiling fans or add extra fans during the warmer months to keep the workers cool.
To prepare, consider covering nearby furniture or outdoor features and ensuring there’s a path that won’t turn into a muddy mess. If possible, consider scheduling your installation on a day with mild weather.
Communicate With the Installation Team
Clear communication with your installation team is key to a smooth and stress-free process. Before installation day, take the time to share any specific details about your space that could affect the work. You may want to mention tricky access points, limited parking, or unique features in your home or yard.
Ask questions if you’re curious about the process or timeline. If you won’t be there on the day of the installation, make sure someone is available to answer last-minute questions or provide access to the property if needed.
Secure Pets and Children
When installation day arrives, it’s important to ensure the safety of your pets and children. Curious paws and little hands can inadvertently wander into the workspace, which could pose risks to their safety or slow down the project.
Before the team arrives, make arrangements to secure your pets and keep children entertained in another part of the house or with a trusted caretaker. This not only creates a safer environment for your little ones but also minimizes distractions, allowing the installation team to work efficiently.
Turn Off Any Nearby Security Systems
Disable security systems like alarms or motion sensors. The movement of the team can trigger these systems, causing unnecessary interruptions or confusion. The last thing you want is to get an unnecessary phone call from the alarm company while you’re at work or come home to the police parked outside. Make sure you know how to deactivate the system before the team arrives.
Provide Parking and Accessibility for the Crew
Although it’s often overlooked, one of the most critical steps in preparing your home for a window installation is ensuring the team has enough space to leave their vehicles. Take a moment to evaluate the parking situation and the ease of access to your home. Make sure there’s enough space for the team’s vehicle, tools, and equipment. If you have a driveway, clear it of any obstacles like bikes, toys, or trash bins to provide a hassle-free setup.
For homes with street parking, consider reserving a spot if possible or informing the crew of the best nearby options. This small step makes the whole process a lot smoother when crew members don’t have to maneuver their materials over unnecessary obstacles.
Prepare for Construction Noise
Today, many people work from home. Becoming accustomed to construction noise can be a bit of an adjustment. However, it’s possible to remain focused on work while the window installation takes place.
Identify the hours when the noise is likely to be at its peak. Most crews work during standard daytime hours, so schedule any meetings accordingly.
Next, consider earplugs or noise-canceling headphones for those moments when you need a little peace and quiet. For families with young children or pets, create a calm space with white noise or soothing music to reduce stress on sensitive ears.
At The Window Source of the Rockies, we take great pride in leaving your home the way we found it. You can trust that during the replacement window installation process, we’ll take great care of your home. From keeping in close communication with you to prepping your space to cleaning up the project, we’re dedicated to making it a stress-free process.