What to Expect During Window Replacement: Day-by-Day Guide

Before Installation Day

Preparation makes everything go smoother:

1-4 weeks before: - Windows are custom-manufactured (typically 2-4 weeks) - We'll call to confirm your installation date - You receive prep instructions

2-3 days before: - Clear area around windows (inside and outside) - Move furniture 3-4 feet away from windows - Take down curtains, blinds, and rods - Remove window decorations and plants - Clear driveway for installer van

Items to protect: - Cover furniture near windows with sheets - Remove fragile items from window sills - Consider covering flooring near windows - Secure pets in an area away from work zones

Good to know: We lay drop cloths and take precautions, but some dust is inevitable during demolition. Covering items reduces cleanup.

Installation Day: Morning

Here's what happens when the crew arrives:

Arrival and setup (30-60 minutes): - Crew arrives (typically 7-8 AM) - Brief walkthrough to confirm work plan - Set up tools and protective coverings - Stage new windows near work areas

First windows removed (9-10 AM): - Interior trim removed (if full-frame) - Old window taken out carefully - Opening inspected for surprises (rot, damage) - Issues addressed if found (may affect timeline)

New windows installed: - Window placed in opening - Leveled, plumbed, squared - Shimmed and secured - Insulation installed around frame - Exterior sealed and capped

Time per window: 30-60 minutes for standard windows; longer for large or complex units.

Installation Day: Afternoon

The work continues:

More windows completed: - Crew works systematically through the house - Typically one window open at a time - In cold weather, we work quickly to minimize heat loss

Interior finishing: - New trim installed (or old trim reinstalled) - Caulking around interior trim - Touch-up as needed

Exterior completion: - Aluminum capping installed (if applicable) - Exterior caulking sealed - Any damaged siding addressed

End of day: - Work area cleaned up - All windows operational and locked - Debris loaded for removal - Brief walkthrough with homeowner

What you can expect: Dust, some noise (sawing, drilling, hammering), workers in and out. Plan to be home or have someone available.

Multi-Day Projects

For larger homes or complex installations:

When projects take more than one day: - More than 15-18 windows - Many large or specialty windows - Full-frame replacement with significant trim work - Issues discovered (rot, structural problems)

End of each day: - All windows are secure and weather-tight - No openings left exposed overnight - Work area tidied

Between days: - You can use your home normally - Keep work areas accessible - Expect crew back at same time next morning

Typical timelines: - 8-12 windows: 1 day - 13-20 windows: 1.5-2 days - 20+ windows or complex: 2-3 days - Bay/bow windows: Add 2-4 hours each

After Installation

What happens once the crew leaves:

Immediate: - All windows should operate smoothly - Locks should engage easily - No visible gaps or daylight around frames

First few weeks: - Slight adjustment may be needed as house settles - Caulk may need touch-up after curing - We return if anything needs attention

Your responsibilities: - Remove protective film from glass (within 30 days) - Dispose of old blinds/curtains if not reused - Touch up interior paint if desired - Register warranty if required

Warranty coverage: - Manufacturing defects (typically 20+ years) - Seal failure (typically 15-20 years) - Installation issues (typically 5-10 years) - Keep all documentation

Follow-up: We check in after a month and are available for any questions or adjustments.