How to Prepare Your Home for an Impact Window Installation Day
You've selected your impact windows, signed the contract, and installation day is approaching. Proper preparation ensures a smooth installation process, protects your belongings, and helps the crew work efficiently. A little advance planning makes installation day easier for everyone.
At Window Guys of Florida, we guide homeowners through every step of the impact window installation process. This comprehensive guide helps you prepare your home for a successful installation.
Timeline: When to Start Preparing
One Week Before Installation
- Confirm installation date and estimated arrival time
- Review the scope of work and which windows are being replaced
- Start clearing areas around windows (inside and out)
- Make pet and child care arrangements if needed
- Check weather forecasts and discuss contingency plans
2-3 Days Before Installation
- Complete clearing furniture and belongings from window areas
- Take down window treatments (blinds, curtains, valances)
- Remove wall decorations near windows
- Clear exterior landscaping from window access paths
Day Before Installation
- Final walkthrough to ensure all areas are clear
- Secure valuables in a closed room or off-site
- Charge phones and have contractor contact info ready
- Prepare refreshments for crew if desired (water, snacks)
Step-by-step guide to preparing your home for impact window installation day.
Interior Preparation
Step 1: Clear Furniture from Window Areas
Move furniture at least 6 feet away from each window:
- Sofas and chairs: Push to center of room or another room
- Beds: Move to opposite wall or angle away from windows
- Desks and tables: Clear completely from the area
- Heavy items: Installers can help move very heavy pieces if necessary
Step 2: Remove Wall Decorations
Take down items near windows that could fall or be damaged:
- Pictures and artwork: Within 3 feet of windows
- Mirrors: Vibrations can cause falls
- Shelves and displays: Remove items and consider removing shelves
- Mounted TVs: Near window walls should be temporarily removed
Step 3: Remove Window Treatments
Take down all window coverings before the crew arrives:
- Blinds and shades: Remove from brackets
- Curtains and drapes: Take down including rods if attached to window frame
- Valances and cornices: Remove completely
- Label everything: Mark which treatments go where for reinstallation
Note: You may need to adjust or replace window treatments after installation if new windows have different dimensions.
Step 4: Protect Flooring
Professional installers bring drop cloths, but extra protection helps:
- Roll up area rugs: Store in another room
- Consider temporary floor covering: For high-end flooring
- Clear pathways: From entry to each window location
Step 5: Clear Windowsills
Remove everything from window sills and nearby surfaces:
- Plants: Move to a safe location
- Decorations: Candles, figurines, etc.
- Electronics: Speakers, clocks, devices
- Books and papers: Anything that could get dirty or damaged
Exterior Preparation
Step 6: Clear Access to Windows
Installers need clear access to exterior window areas:
- Move patio furniture: At least 8-10 feet from windows
- Relocate planters: Clear the immediate area
- Trim overgrown bushes: That block window access
- Move grills and equipment: Away from work areas
Step 7: Protect Landscaping
Quality installers are careful, but extra protection prevents damage:
- Cover delicate plants: With tarps or sheets
- Mark sprinkler heads: To prevent damage
- Note any underground utilities: Inform the crew
Step 8: Prepare Vehicle Access
The installation crew needs space for their truck and equipment:
- Clear driveway space: For installation truck
- Move vehicles: That might block access
- Note any parking restrictions: HOA or street parking rules
- Identify staging area: Where materials can be stored temporarily
Special Considerations
Pets
Installation day is stressful for pets:
- Confine to a safe room: Away from work areas
- Consider boarding: For very anxious pets or multi-day installs
- Inform the crew: About pet locations
- Post warning signs: On doors to rooms with pets
Children
Keep children safe during installation:
- Arrange childcare: If possible for young children
- Designate safe zones: Away from work areas
- Explain the process: To older children
- Supervise constantly: Tools and materials present hazards
Home Security Systems
Window sensors may be affected:
- Disable window sensors: On windows being replaced
- Contact your security company: About temporary changes
- Plan for re-installation: Of sensors on new windows
HVAC Considerations
Open windows affect your air conditioning:
- Adjust thermostat: AC will work harder during installation
- Close vents: In rooms with active work if possible
- Expect temperature fluctuations: Especially on hot days
Day of Installation: What to Expect
Morning Arrival
- Crew typically arrives between 7-9 AM
- Project supervisor will review the work plan with you
- Crew will do a walkthrough and set up work areas
- Protection materials (drop cloths) will be placed
During Installation
- Noise levels: Expect sawing, hammering, and drilling
- Dust: Some dust is unavoidable despite precautions
- Access: Crew will need interior and exterior access
- Questions: Feel free to ask the supervisor anything
Temporary Weather Exposure
Windows are removed one at a time to minimize exposure:
- Each opening is exposed briefly (usually 15-30 minutes)
- Installers work quickly to minimize gaps
- If rain threatens, work may pause or tarps may be used
End of Day
- Crew cleans work areas and removes debris
- Supervisor does final walkthrough with you
- Any remaining work for multi-day installs is discussed
- Questions about operation and care are answered
Multi-Day Installations
Larger projects may take 2-3 days or more:
- Windows are secured: Each night before crew leaves
- Temporary protection: May be installed on unfinished openings
- Daily cleanup: Work areas are tidied each day
- Progress updates: Supervisor reviews what's completed and upcoming
After Installation
Immediately After
- Test all windows for proper operation
- Note any concerns for the crew before they leave
- Get care and maintenance instructions
- Receive warranty documentation
In the Following Days
- Wait 24-48 hours: Before washing new windows
- Don't disturb caulk: Allow full cure time
- Reinstall window treatments: After any needed adjustments
- Schedule inspection: If required by permit
Follow our maintenance checklist to keep your new windows performing optimally.
Questions to Ask Before Installation Day
- What time will the crew arrive?
- How many installers will be working?
- How long will installation take?
- What should I do about my alarm system?
- Will someone be here the entire time?
- What if weather is bad on installation day?
- How do I reach the supervisor if I have questions?
Review more questions to ask your installer.
Schedule Your Installation
Window Guys of Florida makes installation as smooth as possible with professional crews and clear communication. We serve Palm Beach County, Broward County, and Martin County.
Contact us today or call (561) 598-6295 for your free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I prepare for impact window installation?
Start preparing about one week before installation. This gives you time to gradually clear areas, make arrangements for pets or children, and address any questions with your contractor. The bulk of physical preparation—moving furniture, removing window treatments—can be done 2-3 days before. A final walkthrough the evening before ensures everything is ready.
Do I need to be home during impact window installation?
Someone should be home at the start of installation for the initial walkthrough and to address any questions. You don't need to be present the entire time, but the crew may need access to locked areas or have questions during the day. Many homeowners arrange to be available by phone and check in periodically. Someone should be present at the end for the final walkthrough.
What happens if it rains on installation day?
Light rain usually doesn't stop installation—crews use tarps and work quickly to minimize exposure. Heavy rain or storms may cause delays. Your contractor will communicate about weather contingencies and reschedule if necessary. During hurricane season, installers closely monitor forecasts and may proactively reschedule if significant weather is expected.
How long does impact window installation take?
Installation time depends on the number of windows and complexity. Most homes with 10-15 windows complete in one full day. Larger homes or those with many specialty windows may take 2-3 days. Factors affecting timeline include window size, access difficulty, and whether structural modifications are needed. Your contractor will provide an estimated timeline specific to your project.
Will installers clean up after themselves?
Professional installers clean up work areas and remove all debris including old windows, packaging, and construction materials. They should leave your home in the same condition as before (minus normal construction dust). Expect to do some light dusting after installation—fine dust is inevitable with any construction work. If cleanup isn't satisfactory, address it with the supervisor before the crew leaves.