Prepping for Windows Installation

When you hire a window contractor, you generally expect the installation process to be quick and painless, which it usually is.  However, there are a few steps you, as a homeowner, can do to help contractors get the job done more quickly (and even save yourself on labor costs). 

Clearing the Obstacles
One thing you can do is to make sure that your crew has plenty of room to work when they arrive.  It’s much harder for your crew to do the job right if they’re trying to avoid obstacles like landmines.  Most times, they won’t even start replacing the windows until the area is cleared, which will cost you more in terms of labor time. Make sure that your crew has a clear path to the front door, and that there’s a clear space in your yard for their vehicles and equipment.  It’s also a good idea to talk to your contractor and find out if there are any additional areas to clear.  Remove any furniture that might be in the way, and put away any valuable or breakable objects.  You’ll also want to point out outlets that can be used, as the contractor will more than likely need to plug in power tools.

Keeping It Clean
You’ll also want to make sure you’re prepared for the mess that often comes with windows installation.  Quite often, windows replacement requires sanding, stripping, priming, and painting.  This combination will more than likely lead to mess on your floors, as well as on the outdoor areas near the windows.  Your crew will be as careful as they can be, but we recommend putting down plastic sheets, drop clothes, or carpet remnants to catch the mess.  They’ll do it, but that will also add labor costs that you can easily avoid by taking some time to prep it yourself. 

Bridging the Gap
Installing windows is a hard job, even for a seasoned pro.  All that lifting and framing and adjusting and nailing can leave even the most tough-skinned windows contractors drained.  Providing them with coffee, water, and snacks can go a long way in building the relationship between homeowner and contractor, and it can often lead to jobs being finished more quickly and labor costs being reduced.  It sounds silly, but it’s often the way things work.