Replacing the windows in your home is a significant investment, so it’s natural to wonder what the installation process actually involves. Will the installation be disruptive? How long will it take? What happens to your old windows?
Understanding the process can make your window replacement project much easier and give you confidence that your home is in good hands.
At Canadian Comfort, we’ve been supplying and installing quality replacement windows for more than 40 years. Our experienced installation team works carefully to ensure your new windows look great, operate properly, and provide the energy efficiency and weather protection your home needs.
Here’s what you can expect during a professional window replacement.
1. Start With an In-Home Consultation
The process typically begins with a consultation at your home.
This is an opportunity to discuss:
- Which windows you’d like to replace
- Your preferred window styles
- Energy-efficiency goals
- Glass options
- Colours and finishes
- Your budget
- Any existing window problems
An experienced window professional can also inspect your existing windows and help determine the best replacement options for your home.
2. Your Windows Are Carefully Measured
Accurate measurements are one of the most important parts of a successful window replacement.
Your installer will measure each window opening to determine the appropriate size for the new windows.
This is particularly important because windows aren’t necessarily all the same size—even in the same room or throughout the same house.
Professional measurements help ensure:
- The replacement window fits properly
- The installation is weather-tight
- The window operates smoothly
- Insulation can be installed correctly
- Finishing work looks clean and professional
Taking accurate measurements before manufacturing or ordering your windows helps prevent installation problems later.
3. You Choose Your Window Style and Features
Once measurements are complete, you’ll select the windows that best suit your home.
Depending on your needs, options may include:
- Casement windows
- Sliding windows
- Awning windows
- Picture windows
- Double-hung windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
You’ll also have choices regarding glass, colour, hardware, grille patterns, and other design features.
For Ottawa homeowners, energy efficiency should also be an important consideration.
Features such as Low-E glass, argon gas-filled insulated glass units, and insulated frames can help improve thermal performance.
4. The Old Window Is Carefully Removed
On installation day, the team will begin by preparing the work area and carefully removing the existing window.
The goal isn’t simply to remove the old window as quickly as possible. The surrounding opening needs to be protected so the new window can be installed properly.
Professional installers take care to minimize damage to:
- Interior finishes
- Exterior siding
- Brickwork
- Trim
- Surrounding walls
The exact removal process depends on the type and construction of the existing window.
5. The Window Opening Is Inspected
Once the old window has been removed, the installer can inspect the opening.
This is an important step because the opening needs to be suitable for the new window.
The installer may check for:
- Moisture
- Deteriorated materials
- Gaps
- Structural issues
- Insulation problems
- Uneven surfaces
If an issue is discovered, it should be addressed before the new window is installed.
6. The New Window Is Installed
The replacement window is then carefully positioned in the opening.
The installer checks that the window is:
- Properly positioned
- Level
- Plumb
- Square
- Securely fastened
Correct positioning is essential for proper operation.
A window that isn’t installed correctly may become difficult to open and close or fail to seal properly.
7. Insulation and Weather Sealing Are Added
One of the most important parts of window installation is creating a proper seal around the window.
The installation team will use appropriate insulation and sealing materials around the frame to help reduce air leakage and improve energy performance.
Proper sealing helps protect your home from:
- Cold air
- Drafts
- Moisture
- Wind
- Heat loss
This is one of the reasons professional installation is so important. A high-performance window can only perform as well as its installation allows.
8. Interior and Exterior Finishing
Once the window is secured and sealed, the installation team completes the surrounding finish work.
Depending on the project, this can include finishing around the interior and exterior of the window so that the new installation looks clean and professional.
The goal is for the new window to look like it belongs in your home—not like it was simply placed into an opening.
9. The Window Is Tested
Before leaving, the installer should inspect and test the new window.
This includes checking:
- Opening and closing
- Locks and hardware
- Alignment
- Seals
- Operation
- Overall appearance
If multiple windows are being installed, each one should be checked individually.
10. The Work Area Is Cleaned
A professional installation shouldn’t leave your home looking like a construction site.
Once the work is complete, the installation team cleans the work area and removes the old windows and installation debris.
You’ll then be able to enjoy your new windows without having to deal with the cleanup yourself.
How Long Does Window Replacement Take?
The timeline depends on the number of windows being replaced, the type of windows, accessibility, and the amount of finishing work required.
A straightforward replacement may be completed relatively quickly, while a larger project involving numerous windows or custom configurations can take longer.
During your consultation, your installer should provide a clearer idea of how long your particular project is likely to take.
Does Window Replacement Cause a Lot of Disruption?
Professional window replacement is generally much less disruptive than many homeowners expect.
Installers work one window at a time whenever possible, helping minimize exposure to the outside weather and keeping the work area manageable.
You can help make the installation process easier by:
- Moving furniture away from windows
- Removing curtains and blinds
- Clearing items from window sills
- Providing installers with access to the work areas
- Keeping pets away from the installation area
Why Professional Window Installation Matters
Choosing quality replacement windows is only half of the equation. Proper installation is essential for achieving the performance you’re paying for.
Professional installation helps ensure:
Better Energy Efficiency
Proper insulation and sealing help minimize air leakage.
Smooth Operation
Correct alignment helps windows open, close, and lock properly.
Weather Protection
Proper sealing helps protect against drafts and moisture.
Long-Term Performance
Correct installation helps your windows perform as intended for years.
Better Appearance
Professional finishing creates a clean, polished result.
Why Choose Canadian Comfort?
For more than 40 years, Canadian Comfort has been supplying and installing replacement windows for homeowners throughout Ottawa and surrounding communities.
We understand the demands that Ottawa’s climate places on windows and doors, and we focus on providing products and installation designed for year-round performance.
Our team can help you with:
- Window selection
- Energy-efficient glass options
- Accurate measurements
- Professional installation
- Interior and exterior finishing
- Removal of your old windows
We make the process straightforward from your initial consultation through to the final installation.
Ready to Replace Your Windows?
If your windows are drafty, difficult to operate, damaged, or simply outdated, replacing them can improve your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, appearance, and value.
Understanding what happens during a professional window replacement can make the process much less intimidating.
If you’re considering replacement windows in Ottawa, contact Canadian Comfort for a free, no-obligation estimate. Our experienced team can assess your current windows, explain your options, and help you choose the right replacement windows for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to replace a window?
The installation time depends on the window size, type, accessibility, and condition of the existing opening. Many straightforward replacements can be completed relatively quickly, while larger projects take longer.
Do I need to leave my home during window installation?
Usually, no. Most homeowners can remain at home while their windows are being replaced. Your installer can let you know if there are any circumstances where temporary access or additional arrangements are required.
What happens to my old windows?
In most cases, the old windows are removed from the property as part of the installation process.
Will my home be protected during installation?
Professional installers take precautions to protect floors, furniture, and surrounding areas while the work is being completed.
Can replacement windows improve energy efficiency?
Yes. Modern energy-efficient windows can help reduce heat loss, drafts, and unwanted heat gain, improving comfort and potentially reducing heating and cooling costs.
How do I know if my windows need replacing?
Common signs include drafts, condensation between glass panes, difficulty opening or closing, damaged frames, deteriorating seals, and increasing energy costs.
Why should I use a professional window installer?
Professional installation helps ensure your windows are accurately fitted, properly insulated, securely fastened, and effectively sealed against Ottawa’s weather.