Selecting to replace your windows is a critical investment in your home’s comfort, value, and energy efficiency. So you’ve done the hard part: you’ve picked your high-performance Oknalux uPVC or thermally broken aluminium windows, selected the right glazing, and scheduled the install. Now, everything is getting more and more exciting.
But window replacement is a building project. Whether you are retrofitting windows in Adelaide, or getting window installation in Sydney – our professional installers are always as efficient as possible while trying to achieve the least disruption, but a little preparation on your part can go a long way towards a smooth, safe, and speedy installation day. Here is a how-to guide for preparing your home for the transformation.
Clear the Path
The best thing you can do for our team is make it easy to reach every window we replace. Our installers will be carrying heavy glass units and tools, so they will really appreciate safe and efficient pathways.
- Inside: Move furniture away from the windows, aiming for at least one to two metres of clearance. If you have heavy sofas or cabinets that are difficult to move, try shifting them enough to leave a walkway.
- Outside: Remove any bushes, hedges, or tree branches blocking the window exterior. Move outdoor furniture, pot plants, and garden hoses. If you have a locked gate, be sure it is unlocked for access, or provide a key to help the crew get to the outside of the house.
Remove Window Treatments
Remove all curtains, blinds and sheers before the crew arrives. This includes the hardware, such as curtain rods and brackets, that are attached to the window frame or prevent the old window from being removed.
Removing these by yourself will keep them safe and prevent them from getting dusty when removing the old frames. It also allows our installers to get straight to work once they arrive. If you have security sensors attached to your windows, contact your alarm company to deactivate them and discuss how to handle them.
Protect Your Belongings
While we will always do our best to keep the workspace neat and tidy, it’s not uncommon for dust and debris to settle when old windows are removed.
- Cover Up: We suggest covering furniture and electronics near the windows and doors with drop cloths or plastic sheets. This will protect your belongings from dust that tends to settle during construction.
- Remove Valuables: The art or photos that hang on the walls or mirrors near the windows should be taken down. Vibrations from hammering and drilling can cause them to fall. It’s also prudent to move delicate knick-knacks or heirlooms to another room altogether.
Plan for Kids and Pets
A construction zone is not the safest place for kids or pets. There will be openings in your walls for short periods, heavy materials being used, and power tools in use.
For everyone’s safety, you might want to send small children and pets to stay with a friend or relative for a day, or ensure they are safe in a separate place in the house or in the yard, away from the work zone, while the installation is taking place. This allows our team to concentrate on the job without fear of tripping hazards or curious paws.
Allow for Access and Parking
Your installation crew will arrive in a work van with your new windows and all necessary equipment. They need a parking area as close to the entry point as possible to unload safely. If you have a driveway, clearing it helps a lot. If the only option is street parking, try to reserve a spot by parking your own car there and move it when the team arrives.
The Final Walkthrough
After completing the install, our staff will tidy up the immediate work area. Now is the best time to do a last walkthrough with the lead installer.
- Test the Windows: Open and close each new window and door to check it works correctly.
- Ask Questions: Ask the installer to show how the locking works, how to operate the tilt-and-turn functions if included, and how to remove your screens for cleaning.
Simple steps are essential for laying the groundwork for an ideal setup. You’ll soon be soaking up the stillness, security, and thermal comfort of your new Oknalux windows.
Have questions about your upcoming installation? Reach out to the Oknalux team on 1300 265 250.
