How Long Does Window Installation Take?

One of the most common questions we hear from Dallas homeowners is: "How long will this take?" Whether you are planning around work schedules, kids' nap times, or just want to know when you can stop hearing power tools, here is a detailed breakdown of window installation timelines based on our experience across thousands of DFW projects.

Per-Window Installation Time

The core work on a single standard-size replacement window — removing the old unit, prepping the opening, setting the new window, shimming, insulating, sealing, and applying trim — takes **45 minutes to 90 minutes** for an experienced two-person crew. That is for a straightforward insert replacement where the rough opening is in good condition and no structural modifications are needed.

Here is how timing varies by window type:

**Double-hung or single-hung (insert replacement):** 45–75 minutes per window. This is the fastest and most common replacement type in Dallas homes.

**Casement or awning window:** 60–90 minutes per window. The crank hardware and multi-point locking mechanism require more adjustment and testing.

**Sliding glass door:** 3–5 hours per door. The larger opening, heavier panels, track alignment, and threshold work make this a half-day project per door.

**Bay or bow window:** 6–10 hours (often a full day). These involve structural framing, a roof cap, insulation of the projection cavity, and extensive interior and exterior trim work.

**Picture or fixed window:** 30–60 minutes per window. No operating hardware to adjust makes these the fastest to install.

Full-Home Project Timelines

For a complete window replacement on a typical Dallas home, here is what to expect:

**10–15 windows (small to mid-size home):** 1 day. A two-person crew can comfortably complete 10–15 standard insert replacements in a single workday, including setup, cleanup, and haul-away.

**16–25 windows (mid-size to large home):** 1.5–2 days. Larger homes in Plano, Frisco, and Preston Hollow with 20+ windows typically take a day and a half to two full days.

**25+ windows or mixed types:** 2–3 days. Homes with a combination of standard, casement, specialty shapes, and sliding doors need additional time for the variety of installation methods involved.

What Adds Time to the Project?

Several factors can extend the timeline beyond the baseline:

**Rough opening repairs.** When we pull an old window and discover rot, termite damage, or deteriorated framing behind it, we need to repair the opening before the new window goes in. This adds 30–60 minutes per affected window. In older Dallas homes (pre-1970s), some level of repair work is common and should be expected.

**Stucco or stone exteriors.** Homes with stucco, stone veneer, or brick mold exterior trim require more careful removal and reapplication of exterior materials. Each window may take 15–30 minutes longer than a simple siding or brick opening.

**Second- and third-floor access.** Upper-floor windows that require ladders or scaffolding add setup time and slow down the installation pace. For safety, our crews work more methodically at height.

**Lead paint (pre-1978 homes).** Homes built before 1978 may have lead-based paint on window frames and trim. Federal EPA RRP rules require certified containment and cleanup procedures, which add time and cost. We are EPA Lead-Safe certified and follow all required protocols.

**Custom sizes and shapes.** Arched, circular, octagonal, and other specialty windows require more fitting, shimming, and trim work than rectangular units.

What to Expect on Installation Day

Here is a typical timeline for a full-day window project in Dallas:

**7:30–8:00 AM:** Crew arrives, stages materials, lays drop cloths, and reviews the work plan with you.

**8:00 AM–12:00 PM:** Window removal and installation, working room by room. Each opening is exposed for only 30–60 minutes.

**12:00–12:30 PM:** Lunch break.

**12:30–4:00 PM:** Continue installations, apply interior and exterior trim, caulk, and insulate.

**4:00–5:00 PM:** Final inspection, hardware testing, cleanup, and walk-through with you. All old windows and debris are loaded and hauled away.

We ask that you clear window sills of plants, blinds, and decorations before the crew arrives. Furniture does not need to be moved to the center of the room — our crews work carefully around your belongings with drop cloths covering everything within a few feet of each window.

The Bottom Line

Most Dallas homeowners are pleasantly surprised at how quickly and cleanly a professional window replacement goes. A standard full-home project is complete in one to two days, and your home is fully sealed and comfortable from the moment the last window is installed.

Call Dallas Window Replacement at (945) 229-0300 to get your free estimate and find out exactly how long your specific project will take.