What To Expect On Installation Day: Disruption, Timescales And Snagging

What Happens On The Day

Having new windows and doors installed involves some disruption, but knowing what to expect makes it much easier. This guide covers preparation, the installation process, and how to check the finished work.

Before Installation Day

Lead Time

From ordering to installation typically takes 3-4 weeks:

• Survey: Within 7 days of order
• Manufacturing: Around 3 weeks
• Installation date: Within a week of products arriving

Urgent orders can sometimes be expedited to around 2 weeks.

Preparing Your Home

The day before installation:

• Clear window areas: Move furniture, ornaments, and valuables away from windows
• Remove curtains and blinds: Take down any window dressings
• Clear external access: Move garden furniture, potted plants, or anything blocking access outside
• Protect flooring: Installers bring dust sheets, but you may want additional protection
• Consider pets: Keep them in a safe room away from the work area
• Plan for children: Work areas aren't safe for young children

On The Morning

• Someone over 18 must be present throughout
• Installers typically arrive between 8am and 9am
• Confirm where they can park (especially if permits needed)
• Show them where the stop-cock is (in case of any issues)

Installation Timescales

How Long Does It Take?

Job	Typical Duration
Single window	1-2 hours
Single door	3 hours (half day)
Front door	3-6 hours
Patio/French doors	Half to full day
Bifold doors	1+ days
Full house (8-12 windows)	1-2 days
Full house including doors	2-3 days

Installers typically fit 4-6 windows per day. Complex or bespoke installations take longer.

The Installation Process

For each window or door:

1. Preparation: Dust sheets laid, area protected
2. Removal: Old window/door carefully removed
3. Inspection: Frame and opening checked for any issues
4. Fitting: New frame installed, levelled, and fixed
5. Glazing: Glass units fitted (if not pre-glazed)
6. Sealing: External and internal sealing applied
7. Hardware: Handles, locks, and fittings installed
8. Testing: Operation checked, locks tested
9. Finishing: Trims fitted, making good completed

Disruption To Expect

Noise

Installing windows and doors is noisy work. Expect:

• Drilling into masonry
• Hammering
• Power tools
• Old frames being broken out

If you work from home, plan for calls and meetings to happen in a room away from the work.

Dust And Debris

Even with protection:

• Some dust is inevitable, especially when cutting into masonry
• Dust sheets and covers minimise spread
• A light clean may be needed after installation
• External debris is cleared by installers

Weather Exposure

While a window is removed, the opening is exposed. Professional installers:

• Work quickly to minimise exposure time
• Make each opening weather-tight before moving to the next
• May postpone work in severe weather
• Cover openings if work spans multiple days

Access

Installers need access around the property:

• Most upstairs windows are fitted from inside (no scaffolding needed)
• Some situations require scaffolding or ladders
• Garden access may be needed for rear installations
• Side gates should be unlocked

Checking The Finished Work

Before Signing Off

When installation is complete, check each window and door:

Operation

• Opens and closes smoothly
• Locks engage properly
• Handles turn without sticking
• Tilt-and-turn (if applicable) works correctly
• Keys work in all locks

Appearance

• Glass is clean and undamaged
• Frames are straight and level
• Internal and external trims are secure
• Sealant is neat and complete
• Colour matches what you ordered

Sealing

• No visible gaps around frames
• External gaps should not exceed 10mm
• No foam visible (should be trimmed and covered)
• No daylight visible around edges

Common Snagging Issues

Problems to look for:

Issue	What To Look For	Action
Sticking windows	Difficult to open/close	May need adjustment
Draughts	Cold air around edges	Sealing issue
Rattling	Noise when closed	Adjustment needed
Condensation	Between panes	Seal failure (warranty claim)
Uneven gaps	Frame not centred	Installation issue
Lock problems	Won't engage properly	Alignment adjustment
Damaged glass	Scratches, chips	Replacement needed
Poor finishing	Gaps, untidy sealant	Remedial work

Raising Snags

If you spot issues:

1. Photograph everything: Document any problems clearly
2. Raise immediately: Point out issues before the installer leaves if possible
3. Put it in writing: Email your concerns with photos
4. Set a deadline: Ask for response within 14 days
5. Don't pay final balance: Until significant issues are resolved

If Problems Aren't Resolved

If the installer doesn't address snags:

• Contact FENSA or CERTASS if they're registered
• Contact your local Trading Standards
• Use your insurance-backed guarantee if the company won't help
• Consider alternative dispute resolution before court

After Installation

Documentation To Keep

Store safely:

• FENSA certificate (or building control sign-off)
• Warranty and guarantee documents
• Insurance-backed guarantee certificate
• Product specifications and care instructions
• Invoice and payment receipts

You'll need these when selling your property—surveyors check for evidence of building regulations compliance.

Demonstration

Before the installer leaves, ask them to:

• Show you how to operate each window and door
• Explain any special features (night vents, child locks)
• Demonstrate the locking system
• Provide care and maintenance advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Find Reliable Installers

Professional installation makes all the difference. These Central Scotland companies are known for quality workmanship: