As your contractor removes and replaces your old sliding windows, you have to deal with old wood, sawdust and other debris. In this situation, you have to make sure your home and belongings are protected.
Minimize mess during a window replacement by following these tips.
Empty Hallways & Openings
Clear up your halls and doorways to give the installers more space and make their job easier. This can accelerate the installation and reduce the mess. Remove rugs, plants and any items around the windows.
Outside your home, make space for ladders, scaffolding and lifts to make upper-level windows accessible. Store outdoor furniture, holiday lights, trash cans, potted plants and other decorations in and around the windows.
Store Your Valuables
Save yourself from stressing over your valuables by moving them out until the installation is done. This way you can pay more attention to your new custom windows.
Consider moving your things to the garage, basement or a portable storage container if you’re doing a whole-house window replacement. It will prevent your belongings from being misplaced and ensure they are in a safe place.
Protect Your Belongings
Whether you’re getting new windows or patio doors, it’s recommended to remove all items from a room where the replacement will take place. Move your electronics and furniture a safe distance from the window and cover them with plastic or fabric.
For bathroom window replacement, place cardboard at the bottom of the tub if the installers need to stand on it during the installation. Cover your landscaping with drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect them from debris.
Contain the Working Area
Closing the doors will prevent dust from spreading around your home. As much as possible, keep all rooms closed during the window replacement. Containing the dust in one area will also make cleanup easier for the workers.
For the larger jobs, such as the installation of bay windows, hang plastic drop sheets around the working area. Keep in mind that air-tightness is essential for the effectiveness of this method.
Blow Off the Dust
Place outside-facing fans around your window to bring the dust outside. Fans can help contain dust in a smaller area. Stay cautious of the weather because strong winds can bring the dust back into your home.
Take Down Window Treatments & Decor
This also applies to the installation of replacement doors. You’ll have to take down drapes, blinds, sheers curtains and other treatments. Ask your contractor if you can leave window covering hardware in place if you’re doing an insert window replacement. Remove any wall decor that can fall due to the vibration from the tools used during the construction.
Cover the Vents
Turn off your heating and cooling system during the installation to reduce airflow within the house and help contain the dust and debris in one place. Consider taping the vents in the room where the installation will be done if your home gets uncomfortable without your HVAC system.
Make Arrangements
Window replacement isn’t just messy, it can also disrupt your daily tasks. No matter when you schedule it, the job will cause inconvenience. Keep your children and pets away from your home during your project to minimize distractions.
Whether you’re getting casement windows or sliding doors, you can count on Renewal by Andersen of Knoxville to handle every aspect of your project. We will take care of protecting and removing your valuables away from your windows and doors to avoid damage. After the installation, we will place them back in their proper place and make sure the area is clean. Call us at (866) 609-5033 or complete our online form to schedule a free in-home consultation. We work with homeowners in Oak Ridge and Maryville, TN.
