Replacing your home’s windows is a big decision, and it can make a noticeable difference in comfort, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. Still, if you’ve never gone through the process before, it’s easy to feel unsure about what to expect.
This guide will walk you through the entire window replacement process, from the initial consultation to the final installation day, so you can feel confident every step of the way.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Windows?
Knowing when to replace your windows isn’t always straightforward. Some signs are obvious, while others sneak up on you over time. Here are a few signs your windows may need to be replaced:
- Drafts or noticeable temperature changes near windows
- Rotting, cracked, or damaged frames
- Condensation or fogging between the panes
- Rising energy bills without another clear cause
- Windows that are difficult to open, close, or lock
If any of these sound familiar, Raleigh Windows & Siding can help. We offer inspections to assess the condition of your current windows and provide honest recommendations, so you can make an informed decision.
Preparing for Your Window Replacement
The window replacement process begins before the crew arrives at your door. Taking time to prepare your home and plan your project will help ensure everything goes as expected.
Choosing the Right Windows for Your Home
When choosing replacement windows, you’ll want to think about more than just looks. Energy efficiency is a big factor, especially with Raleigh’s mix of hot summers and chilly winters. Materials like vinyl, fiberglass, and wood each have their own benefits, and style plays a big role in curb appeal. Of course, budget matters too. Your project manager at Raleigh Windows & Siding can walk you through the options and help strike the right balance between performance, aesthetics, and cost.
Scheduling and Planning
Once you’ve selected your windows, the next step is scheduling your installation. Your project manager will coordinate delivery timelines, installation dates, and any access requirements, such as clearing space around windows both inside and outside. It’s a good idea to move furniture, window treatments, or valuables ahead of time to give the crew plenty of room to work.
Role of the Installation Crew
On installation day, your crew will handle everything from delivering the new windows to removing the old ones and making sure your replacements are installed properly. They’re responsible for protecting your home during the process, cleaning up when the job is done, and ensuring everything functions as it should. Homeowners can help by providing clear access to the work areas and securing pets.
Step-by-Step: The Window Replacement Process
When you know what to expect, replacing your windows feels a lot less overwhelming. At Raleigh Windows & Siding, we follow a clear, proven window replacement process to make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Free Estimate
Your window replacement journey starts with a no-pressure consultation. One of our experts will visit your home to take careful measurements, inspect the condition of your current windows, and discuss your goals, whether that’s improving energy efficiency, updating your home’s style, or addressing specific issues like drafts or damage. We’ll walk you through available materials, styles, and features so you can make an informed choice. From there, we’ll provide a detailed estimate outlining your options and next steps.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Window Style and Frame Material
Once you’ve decided to move forward, it’s time to select the window frames that best suit your home’s needs and your personal style. The material you select can make a big difference in energy efficiency, long-term durability, and overall appearance. There are many types of window frames Raleigh homeowners can choose from. Our team specializes in two high-quality options:
- Vinyl: A cost-effective, low-maintenance option that offers solid energy performance. At Raleigh Windows & Siding, we offer OKNA vinyl windows, which are designed for long-term reliability and come in a variety of styles to complement your home.
- Fiberglass: Engineered for superior strength and weather resistance, fiberglass windows are ideal for North Carolina’s changing seasons. We proudly install Infinity by Marvin fiberglass windows, which combine outstanding energy efficiency with a sleek, timeless design that complements both modern and traditional homes.
Your project manager will help you weigh the pros and cons of each material, taking into account your priorities, budget, and style preferences..
Step 3: Professional Measurements and Ordering
After you’ve finalized your window selections, we’ll schedule a follow-up visit to take precise, detailed measurements of each opening. This step ensures that every window is custom-ordered to fit your home perfectly—no gaps, no drafts, no guesswork. Accurate measurements will help prevent delays and make sure your new windows deliver the best possible performance and appearance.
Step 4: Pre-Installation Prep
There are a few simple things homeowners can do before installation day to help things go smoothly. We recommend that you clear the areas around your windows of furniture, window treatments, and fragile items. You should also make arrangements for pets, and plan for temporary access limitations in the work zones. Your project manager will help you coordinate scheduling and answer any prep questions along the way.
Step 5: Window Installation Day
On installation day, our crew will remove your old windows and prepare each opening to ensure a secure, weather-tight fit for the new ones. Your new windows are then installed using proper insulation and sealing techniques to maximize performance. Once everything is in place, we’ll clean up thoroughly, so the only thing left behind is your upgraded view. Most installations are completed within a day or two, depending on the size of the project, and we make every effort to keep disruptions to a minimum.
Step 6: Final Walkthrough and Quality Check
Once your new windows are installed, we’ll walk through the project with you to make sure everything meets your expectations. Our team will double-check that each window is properly sealed, opens and closes smoothly, and functions exactly as it should. This is also your opportunity to ask any final questions or review care and maintenance tips.
Understanding the Installation Process
The installation stage of the window replacement process requires careful planning, skilled workmanship, and attention to detail at every step. Knowing how the installation unfolds can help you prepare your home and understand the work being done.
Preparing for Window Installation
Before any windows come out or go in, our crew takes steps to protect your home. Drop cloths are placed throughout the work areas to safeguard your floors, and furniture near windows is either moved or carefully covered. Outside, we’ll make sure there’s a clear, accessible space for tools, materials, and any necessary waste disposal.
Removal of Old Windows
Removing your existing windows is a careful, controlled process. The crew works methodically to detach frames and glass without damaging the surrounding structure. For homes built before 1978, special care is taken to follow EPA lead-safe practices, including the use of protective barriers and cleanup protocols to reduce any exposure to lead-based paint. Whether your windows are decades old or just past their prime, we’ll remove them safely and responsibly.
Installation Techniques
Once the openings are prepped, your new windows are installed using techniques that prioritize performance and longevity. Depending on your home’s construction and the style of window, the crew may install from the interior or exterior. Foam insulation is often applied around the frame to seal gaps and improve energy efficiency. Each window is leveled and secured to prevent shifting over time, and finishes like caulking and trim are added to complete the look.
Why Choose Raleigh Windows & Siding for Window Replacement?
At Raleigh Windows & Siding, we’ve spent decades serving the Triangle with high-quality materials, trusted brands, and expert craftsmanship. Our solutions aren’t one-size-fits-all; every window we install is custom-fit to your home for the best possible performance and appearance.
As a local company, we know how to match products and installation methods to Raleigh’s climate, so your home stays comfortable and protected year-round. With Raleigh Windows & Siding, you’re not just getting new windows; you’re getting a trusted partner who cares about your home as much as you do.
Ready for New Windows? Schedule Your Free Quote
Replacing your windows is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home’s comfort, efficiency, and curb appeal. If you’re ready to explore your options or simply have questions about the window replacement process, contact us today and let Raleigh Windows & Siding upgrade your home with beautiful, efficient new windows.
Contact our team today and let Raleigh Windows and Siding help you upgrade your home with beautiful, efficient new windows.
