Window replacement is a fairly common home improvement project but it’s not something that homeowners will find themselves involved in often. As such, it’s possible that being faced with the need to replace your windows can cause you a bit of stress. But, worry not! Find yourself a reputable window expert and your replacement project is sure to go off without a hitch. It will also help you ease your mind the more you know about window installations as you’ll know what to expect once you make that call to your window contractor.
Before the Installation
There are no one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to windows so a replacement project starts off with a consultation. Some homeowners know right off the bat which replacement window they’ll be getting but don’t worry about a thing if you don’t know where to even begin. This is what a consultation is for. Window consultations are usually offered free of charge so you don’t have to worry about shelling out anything to meet with a contractor.
Exact components in a session may vary from contractor to contractor but typically you can expect a window consultation to include the following:
- An Assessment of Your Home – Different homes have different requirements and this applies as well in window replacement. If you’re working with a reputable contractor, chances are your windows will be custom-sized and made-to-order to fit your exact needs. As such, it is important for a window expert to meet you in your home for a consultation as this will give them an idea what your property looks like and consequently what will work best for it.
In-home consultations give you the opportunity to talk to your window contractor about your options and any concerns you might have with the replacement project.
- A Discussion of Options – Once your window contractor has a grasp of what you’re looking to get out of a window replacement, you will be provided with options to consider. To help you envision your window options, your window contractor may bring actual product samples and color swatches or other visualization tools. As part of helping you narrow down your options, your window contractor may also talk to you about how to balance beauty and budget.
- A Q&A Portion – There’s no better time than an in-home consultation to voice out any questions you might have because your window contractor is specifically there to take care of your concerns. You have their full attention so fire away with your questions, whether it’s related to window selection or you’re interested in deals and promotions
Once you’ve made your choice, you’ll be provided with a written or an electronic version of an estimate. How long prices on your estimate will be good for will depend on your contractor. Renewal by Andersen, for example, keeps estimates valid for one year.
With your approval, your window replacements will now be manufactured. They will be ready in time for the installation date you and your window contractor agreed on.
A reputable contractor will be ready with everything needed for your window replacement.
During the Installation
Come installation day, your window contractor will arrive at your home ready to carry out your replacement project. Before any actual installation occurs, however, your old windows will have to be removed. To get started on the process, your window contractor will prep the work site to protect personal items. This means moving furniture to make room for the installation crew and covering the surrounding area to prevent debris from settling on top of your things. After everything has been properly covered, the installation crew will get to work removing your old windows. And once your old windows are off, your replacement windows are ready for their new home.
Sometimes previously unknown issues are revealed when old windows come off but you don’t have to worry as your window contractor knows what to do. The usual problem is that warping has occurred in the window’s opening but this commonly only calls for some realignment and the installation is ready to proceed. Once your new windows are up, they will be tested to ensure proper operation and secure installation. If there are no more adjustments to be made, the replacement window is sealed with special insulating foam, eliminating drafts that can get in the way of energy efficiency in the home.
EXPERT TOUCH: Working with a reputable window expert helps ensure your replacement installation project is as hassle-free as possible.
After the Installation
With your new windows installed, your window contractor’s installation crew will get to work restoring the work site back to what it looked like before they arrived. This means clearing debris and putting everything back in their proper place. And when they’re done, no one would think that you just had installation work done.
However, your window contractor’s presence after an installation should go beyond clearing the work site in your home. Sometimes, what separates good from great window contractors is the level of after-sales service they are able to offer. It’s easy for a window contractor to steer clear of a project once everything is done and they have been paid, but those who truly care about your satisfaction will stick around, addressing your concerns whether it’s been a few days or a few years since you got your new windows.
To make the most of your new windows, don’t hesitate to ask your window contractor for care tips. Quality windows today can do with minimal maintenance work but even the most durable replacement windows will definitely benefit from regular TLC.
Replacing your windows can be a significant investment so you’re going to want to ensure that the installation process is done right. After all, how your window replacements are installed will affect how well they perform in the years to come. Good installation work should cover your bases, ensuring your needs are met before, during, and after you get your new windows, and one way to guarantee that is to make sure that you only work with a reputable window expert in your area.
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Author Bio:
Dawn Dewey is the marketing director for Renewal by Andersen (New Mexico, San Diego, Tucson, and Boise) and Dreamstyle Remodeling. Recognized by Professional Remodeler for the magazine’s “40 Under 40” list in 2015, she’s responsible for spreading Renewal by Andersen of Tucson’s name far and wide and is passionate about the environment, civil rights, and animal welfare. Check out the company blog for updates from Dawn!
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