How to Prepare for Vinyl Window Installation

Congratulations! You met with our professional designers and decided on a vinyl window package that is best for your new home in Portland, OR. New vinyl windows will boost the value, increase energy savings, and update the look and feel of your home. In a couple of weeks your windows will arrive and be ready for installation. Now what? There are several things you can do just before installation to speed the process along. These small preparations will make the installation run smoothly, and the installers will appreciate your efforts.

How Long Does Installation Take for Vinyl Windows?
Typically windows are delivered about 4 to 5 weeks after placing an order, and we will set up an installation date. The actual installation is about 30 minutes per window, and a team can install about 12 to 15 windows in a day. But a few factors that could prolong the installation include:
• Weather
• Dependability of the manufacturer
• Size and shape of the new vinyl windows
• Skill and expertise of the installation team
• Number and location of windows being replaced
• Material of the walls surrounding the openings
• Obstructions around the windows both inside and out
• Amount of mold or water damage from old windows
• Permitting regulations of your area

Steps to Prepare for Window Installation
Granted, not many of those factors are within your control. But there are some things you CAN do to speed up the installation process. You should:

1. Create a Clear Path
Window removal and installation means a lot of foot traffic in your home. You will want to designate a clear path for the installation team so they are not tripping over rugs and wires.

2. Give them Access to Outlets
Window removal and installation requires specialized tools like miter saws, air compressors, and nail guns. These require electricity, and if they have easy access to the outlets, the job will run faster.

3. Remove Window Treatments
This seems pretty straight forward, but you would be surprised how many homeowners leave their curtains or blinds in place. If the team has to take them down this adds to the labor time and expenses. Better to remove them yourself and store them safely out of the way, especially if you intend to use them once your vinyl windows are in place.

4. Move the Furniture
If you have any tables and chairs close to your windows you will want to move them out of the way until installation is complete. Even if the team can install all windows from the outside, the inspector will still need access to the inside of your home during the project. Our team will do everything possible to contain the mess and keep your home clean, but there might be some construction dust. You should cover your larger pieces of furniture as an extra precaution.

5. Remove Decor
Window removal and installation does require some demolition—including drilling and hammering. So if you have any picture frames, art, or home décor on your walls, it’s best to take them down. Otherwise the vibrations could cause your items to fall.

6. Prepare the Exterior
Once you have cleaned the inside, take a look around the outside. Do you have any patio furniture or hoses in the way? Are there some plants you don’t want to get accidentally trampled on? Again, we will do what we can to preserve your exterior. However, to be on the safe side, you might want to transplant any plants that might get damaged.

7. Give them Access
This goes beyond making sure someone is there to let them in your home. You should also think about contacting your security company and having them disable the alarm during installation and reactivating it once your new vinyl windows are in place. You also want to make sure your pets are secured so they don’t run away or hinder the installation team.

EnergyGuard Windows and Doors for Vinyl Windows
When it comes to a smooth and clean installation, no one does it better. Our team of expert installers is AAMA certified and provides the best white-glove service in Portland, OR. Call us at 503-554-5500 today to set up an appointment or stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132.