When it comes to professional window and door installation, that quote couldn’t be more accurate. A little preparation can save time, protect your belongings, and help everything run smoothly! Whether you’re upgrading to energy-efficient windows or replacing tired old doors, getting ready is essential.
In this guide, you’ll find practical, easy-to-follow tips to prepare your home so you can sit back and enjoy your brand-new upgrades without a hitch.



Why Preparing Your Home Matters
Installing new windows and doors isn’t just a quick switch. Installers need safe, clear spaces inside and outside your home. If your home isn’t properly prepped, you could face:
Project delays
Damage to furniture or floors
Safety risks for family and pets
A little forward planning goes a long way toward protecting your home and speeding up your installation!



Clear the Work Area
Create a clear, safe space around each window and door. Move furniture, curtains, blinds, and personal items out of the way, allowing at least 3–4 feet of open space.
Pro Tip:
Move large furniture to the centre of the room and cover it with dust sheets for extra protection!
Protect Your Floors
Even though installers will use drop cloths, it’s smart to protect your floors yourself:
Lay down plastic sheeting, cardboard, or old rugs
Tape edges securely to prevent trip hazards
Protect paths from entryways to work areas
Keeping your floors clean and scuff-free adds peace of mind.
Remove Wall Hangings and Shelves
Vibrations during installation can knock items off walls. Remove:
Wall art, picture frames, and clocks
Shelving units near windows or doors
Electronics mounted near work areas
Better safe than sorry when it comes to sentimental or expensive items!
Disconnect Security Systems
Have window and door sensors connected to your home alarm? Make sure you:
Contact your security company ahead of time
Remove or disarm sensors
Plan for reinstallation after the new fittings are in place
Installers are typically careful, but disarming systems helps avoid false alarms or accidental damage.
Create a Pet and Child Safety Plan
Window and door installation areas can be hazardous for pets and children.
Plan ahead by:
Setting up safe zones
Booking pet daycare or keeping them confined
Using child safety gates to block off rooms
This protects everyone and helps installers focus on doing their best work.
Plan for Noise and Disruption
Installations can be noisy! To minimize disruption:
Reschedule work-from-home meetings
Plan outings during heavy work periods
Warn neighbours if you’re in close proximity
A little flexibility makes the whole experience less stressful.
Confirm Access and Parking
Installers will need easy access to your home and enough space for their vans.
Make sure to:
Clear your driveway if possible
Move cars off the street if needed
Unlock any side gates to allow easy movement of materials
Smooth access keeps your project on track and on schedule.
Communicate Special Requests Early
If you have special instructions, share them early. For example:
Protecting delicate landscaping
Salvaging old windows for reuse
Avoiding certain rooms or hours
Good communication leads to better results and fewer surprises!
Double-Check Your Installation Date and Details
Avoid confusion by confirming:
Date and time installers will arrive
Estimated project timeline
Specific windows or doors being replaced
Mistakes happen, a quick confirmation call saves a lot of headaches later.
Take Before Photos
Before your installation team arrives, take a few before photos showing:
Walls around work areas
Window and door frames
Landscaping near outdoor access points
Photos serve as documentation and give you a satisfying “before and after” to share!








Bonus Tip: Prep for Post-Installation Cleaning
Even with careful work, you’ll want to do a light clean afterward.
Have these supplies ready:
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Vacuum cleaner for dust and debris
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Glass cleaner for smudges
-
Mop and cloths for floors and surfaces
A quick clean helps you fully enjoy your beautiful new windows and doors!
Getting new windows and doors is one of the best investments you can make in your home’s comfort, value, and energy efficiency. Preparing properly ensures the whole process is smooth, safe, and stress-free.
Clear your spaces, protect your belongings, plan ahead for noise and safety and you’ll be ready to welcome your installers with confidence.
At GL Glazing & Window Services, we make the installation process as easy and seamless as possible.
Contact us today for a free consultation or to book your professional window and door installation!
Quick FAQ Section
Do I need to be home during installation?
Ideally, yes — but arrangements can be made if you’re unavailable. Discuss options with your installer beforehand.
How long does it take to install windows and doors?
Most standard installations take 1–2 days, depending on the number and complexity of fittings.
Will there be a lot of mess?
Professional installers use drop cloths and tidy as they go. Light cleaning afterward is usually all that’s needed.