Replacing the windows in your home is a big project that has the potential to transform its appearance and reduce your energy bills. Although it sounds relatively straightforward on the surface, the window replacement process can be a complex one that requires a bit of planning on your part.
Here is a look at what you should expect during the window replacement process so you and your family can start with full confidence.
How To Prepare Your Home For The Window Replacement Process
Before investing time and money into the window replacement process, you will need to take some time to find the best contractor for the job and consider what types of windows will work best for your home. Here is a look at what to do before your window replacement project begins.
Review Company Portfolios & Online Reviews
The success of your project will be strongly influenced by the contractors you hire to carry out the work. Many window contractors are trying for your business, so you need to know how to narrow down the field.
A good first step is looking at the portfolios of contractors in your area. Make a list of the ones that stand out to you, and then look for online reviews. This can help you determine which contractors carry out high-quality work. If you know anyone who lives in your area who has had window work performed recently, ask them who they hired and whether they were satisfied.
Schedule Estimates & Receive Quotes
Window contractors will need to come to your home to provide you with an accurate estimate. Although some may be able to supply you with price ranges over the phone, the only way to tell how much work is involved is by observing your existing windows and frames and assessing your home’s layout.
Schedule estimates with the window contractors you are considering. Once you have received all the quotes, you will need to compare them. Make sure you know exactly what is included in each quote so you can make a more accurate comparison.
Select Replacement Window Frame Material, Glass Type & Brand
Once you have found a suitable contractor, you will need to choose the windows you want them to install. This requires making decisions about the frame material, glass type, and brand.
Frame Material
When choosing a type of window frame, you will need to consider cost, maintenance, and appearance; contributing factors to the cost of the window replacement process.
- Fiberglass frames are considered the gold standard, providing excellent energy efficiency and durability without requiring much maintenance. In addition, they can be painted to match your home. However, they are more expensive than their vinyl counterparts.
- Vinyl is one of the most cost-effective options, and these frames come in a range of colors. Easy to clean, strong, and energy-efficient, they provide good value. However, you do need to commit to a specific color as these materials cannot be painted over.
- Wood-clad window frames can give your home a classic traditional look and come in a variety of colors. When cared for correctly, they can last for several decades. They also have excellent insulation properties. However, they are one of the most expensive window frame options on the market.
Glass Types
Another important consideration of the window replacement process is choosing the type of glass in the windows. Modern glass designs have layers of innovative technology to help with noise reduction, UV light blocking, and energy efficiency. Here are some of the most popular types to consider:
- The insulated glass comes in double-pane and triple-pane varieties, with the spaces between the panes filled with gasses that create insulation for better energy efficiency.
- Tempered glass windows are treated using special chemicals that enhance their durability and make them more difficult to break or damage, making them the windows of choice for those seeking extra safety.
- Low-E glass is designed to keep heat inside the home in winter and block it from entering during the summertime. It can also block UV rays from getting inside, making it a great choice for those who wish to avoid skin damage as well as fading furniture and artwork.
Window Brands
Quality, price and design are some of the top considerations regarding window brands. Some of the top brands that deliver on all three fronts include Marvin, Provia and Vinylmax.
How to Prepare Before the Arrival of the Window Contractors
Before your window contractors show up, here are a few things you can do to make the window replacement process simpler.
Clear Objects & Valuables Away From Window Areas
Your window installer can tell you how much space they will need around each window to carry out their work. It may be necessary to move certain furnishings out of these spaces. You should also remove any breakables from your walls, window sills and shelves that could fall over as a result of the vibrations caused by tools.
It is a good idea to clear a direct pathway to each window on the inside and outside of your home, removing obstacles such as patio chairs, toys and flower pots. It may also be necessary to trim any hedges or vines that cover the windows.
Remove Existing Shades or Blinds
You will need to fully strip your windows of all window treatments, such as blinds and shades, before your installers arrive. This will ensure that they have easy access to the windows they are working on. If you plan to reuse the same window treatments on your new windows, now is a good time to give them a thorough cleaning and let them dry thoroughly.
If your windows have any security features, be sure to turn them off before work gets underway so that the contractors do not inadvertently set off an alarm.
What You Should Know About the Window Replacement Process
When the project gets underway, here are a few things you will need to keep in mind.
It Will Be Noisy & There Will Be Some Dust
Although your window contractors will do their best to minimize the disruptions their work causes to your household, they will need to use tools for the removal of the old windows and installation of the new ones.
This can be noisy at times, so plan to use a space that is situated away from where the contractors are currently operating for important phone calls or remote work.
There will also be some dust, so you may want to cover your furniture. You should also keep your pets from wandering into the rooms where contractors are working to avoid getting in the way.
The Project Will Most Likely Not Be Done in One Day
The number of windows that are being replaced will be a key determinant of how long the project will take, although the average is two to three days if everything runs smoothly.
Even small window jobs tend to take longer than a day because contractors need to take their time and ensure that they carry out every step properly. They will typically remove and replace one window at a time to minimize your home’s exposure to the elements and avoid leaving you with multiple open spaces if the project runs longer than expected.
Unexpected issues that your window contractors encounter when they are removing your windows, such as structural problems in the home or mold, can extend the timeline of the project.
Weather Conditions May Extend the Project Timeline
Keep in mind that weather conditions can also extend your project’s timeline. It is a good idea to discuss the weather policy with your installer before work begins.
Some may not have a problem carrying out certain parts of the work in snow or rain, but you may have reservations about the inside of your home getting wet or muddy. Therefore, it is important to discuss what both parties consider to be acceptable working conditions before the beginning of the project.
Window Contractors Will Dispose of Old Windows
Be sure to discuss the removal of your old windows with your window contractor. Normally, your contractor will handle this task themselves, but they may have to store the windows at your home for several days in some cases. If so, set aside a space where the windows can be stored and let your contractors know where to place them.
What to Consider After Replacement Windows Have Been Installed
Once the new windows have been installed, there are still a few small steps you should carry out before you start enjoying your beautiful new windows and the greater comfort they bring to your home.
Check Windows for Visible Gaps & Ensure Functionality
After the project is complete, you should carry out a walk-through with your contractor to examine their work. Make sure that all of the windows sit flush against the wall without any visible gaps.
Try to open, close and lock each window. You should be able to operate them smoothly. If you notice any sticking or creaking, verify that the sash has been installed correctly.
This is also a good moment to review the windows’ warranty and ask your contractor any questions that you have about it. Store your warranty information and window labels in a safe place.
Leave a Good Review & Recommend Services to Others
If you were happy with your contractors, take a few minutes to leave a good review online letting others know about your experience. Many window contractors rely on recommendations from satisfied customers to grow their businesses.
Schedule a Free Window Replacement Estimate With Adelphia Exteriors Today
Have a window that needs to be replaced? Our window replacement crews have been working with home renovation and repair jobs for multiple generations. We arrive on time and ready to work with recommendations on the best window for your home’s style and needs.
Reach out to the experienced Northern Virginia window contractors at Adelphia Exteriors today for a free window replacement estimate.