How Long Does Window Replacement Take? A Realistic Timeline

“How long is this going to take?” It is one of the first questions every homeowner asks, right after “how much will it cost?” Fair enough. Nobody wants their home torn apart for weeks.

The good news is that window replacement is faster than most people expect. Let me walk you through a realistic timeline from start to finish.

The Quick Answer

For the actual installation work:

• Single window: 30 to 60 minutes
• Full room (3-4 windows): Half a day
• Whole house (10-15 windows): 2 to 3 days
• Large project (20+ windows): 3 to 5 days

But the installation is only one part of the timeline. Let me break down the entire process.

Phase 1: Consultation and Planning (1-2 Weeks)

The Free Consultation

This is where it all starts. We schedule an in-home visit where Michael comes to your home, inspects your current windows, discusses your goals and budget, and measures every opening.

A typical consultation takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on the size of your home and how many questions you have. We are never in a rush during consultations because getting this step right makes everything else go smoothly.

During the consultation, we will:

• Inspect every window for damage, seal failure, and performance issues
• Take precise measurements of each opening
• Discuss product options and recommendations
• Explain the installation process
• Answer all your questions

The Proposal

Within a few days of the consultation, we deliver a detailed written proposal covering:

• Recommended products for each window location
• Complete pricing with no hidden costs
• Timeline estimates
• Warranty information
• Financing options if needed

Take your time reviewing the proposal. Ask questions. Compare it with other estimates if you like. There is no pressure and no expiration date.

Phase 2: Product Order and Lead Time (3-6 Weeks)

Once you approve the proposal, we order your windows. This is typically the longest part of the timeline, and it is the one part we do not control.

Standard Lead Times

• Andersen 100 Series: 3 to 4 weeks
• Andersen 200 Series: 3 to 4 weeks
• Andersen 400 Series: 4 to 5 weeks
• Andersen A-Series: 5 to 8 weeks
• Custom sizes and specialty windows: 6 to 10 weeks

These times can vary depending on demand, product availability, and the time of year. We keep you updated on your order status and lock in your installation date as soon as the delivery is confirmed.

What Happens During the Wait

This is actually a great time to handle any prep work:

• Clear furniture and window treatments from the work areas
• Address any related projects (painting, trim work) that you want done at the same time
• If your HOA requires approval, get that handled during this period

Phase 3: Installation Day(s)

This is what most people are really asking about. Here is what to expect.

Before the Crew Arrives

We ask that you:

• Clear a path to each window being replaced (move furniture back 3 to 4 feet)
• Remove window treatments (curtains, blinds, valances)
• Take down any pictures or wall decorations near the windows
• Make sure pets are secured in a room away from the work area

How We Work

Our crew arrives at your home on time (typically 8:00 AM) and starts by laying down drop cloths and protective coverings on your floors and furniture near the work areas.

Here is the process for each window:

1. Remove interior trim carefully (we save and reinstall it whenever possible)
2. Remove the old window from the opening
3. Inspect the rough opening for damage, rot, or structural issues
4. Make repairs if needed (we carry materials for common repairs)
5. Dry-fit the new window to verify proper fit
6. Apply flashing and waterproofing to the opening
7. Set the new window level and plumb
8. Shim and secure the window in the opening
9. Insulate around the frame with low-expansion spray foam
10. Seal the exterior with quality caulking
11. Reinstall interior trim and apply touch-up as needed
12. Test the window for proper operation, locking, and air tightness
13. Clean the glass and work area

Each standard window takes 30 to 60 minutes from start to finish. More complex installations (bay windows, custom shapes, windows requiring frame repairs) take longer.

How Many Windows Per Day?

Our crew typically completes 6 to 10 standard windows per day. Factors that affect the pace:

• Window size: Larger windows take more time
• Floor level: Second-story windows are slower due to ladder work
• Frame condition: Openings that need repair add 20 to 40 minutes per window
• Window type: Bay and bow windows take significantly longer than flat windows
• Access: Windows behind decks, bushes, or other obstructions take more time

End of Day

At the end of each work day, we clean up completely. All debris goes into our truck. All tools are stored. Your home is left in livable condition, even if we are coming back the next day to finish.

If we are mid-project, every opening has a completed window or a sealed temporary barrier. We never leave an open hole in your wall overnight.

Phase 4: Final Walk-Through (30-60 Minutes)

When the last window is installed, we do a thorough walk-through with you:

• Demonstrate operation of every window (opening, closing, locking, tilting for cleaning)
• Check all caulking and sealing from both interior and exterior
• Verify all hardware is functioning correctly
• Review cleaning and maintenance instructions
• Hand over warranty documentation for both Andersen products and our installation warranty
• Answer final questions

We want you to be completely satisfied before we consider the job done.

Phase 5: Follow-Up

About a week after installation, we follow up to make sure everything is performing as expected. If you notice any issues, whether it is a window that does not close smoothly or a spot of caulking that needs attention, we take care of it promptly.

Real-World Timeline Examples

Here are some recent projects to give you a sense of actual timelines:

10-window ranch in Briargate:

• Consultation: Week 1
• Proposal approved: Week 2
• Windows delivered: Week 6
• Installation: 2 days
• Total timeline: 6.5 weeks

18-window two-story in Northgate:

• Consultation: Week 1
• Proposal approved: Week 2
• Windows delivered: Week 7
• Installation: 3 days
• Total timeline: 7.5 weeks

6-window condo in Downtown Colorado Springs:

• Consultation: Week 1
• Proposal approved: Week 1
• Windows delivered: Week 5
• Installation: 1 day
• Total timeline: 5 weeks

Tips for a Smooth Installation

Based on a decade of Colorado Springs installs, here is what helps things go smoothly:

1. Schedule early. Spring and fall are our busiest seasons. The earlier you schedule, the more flexibility you have on timing.
2. Prep your rooms. Moving furniture and removing window treatments before installation day saves our crew time and keeps the project on schedule.
3. Plan for pets. We love your animals, but they are safest in a closed room away from the work.
4. Be available (or designate someone) to answer questions during installation and for the final walk-through.
5. Ask questions early. If you have concerns about the process, timing, or anything else, bring them up during the consultation. There are no surprises on installation day.

Start Your Window Replacement Timeline

Ready to get the process started? Call (719) 238-5419 or read what to expect from our installation process. The sooner you start, the sooner you will be enjoying new windows.