You’ve decided it’s time to replace your windows. You’ve met with a design consultant, picked out your styles, and signed your agreement. The next step? *Queue anticipation music* the Tech Measure.
If you’ve never been through the process, you might be wondering: What exactly happens during a tech measure? Why is it important? And do I really need it?
At Southwest Exteriors, we’ve been replacing windows in San Antonio for over 30 years. And we've discovered over that time that the tech measure is one of the most important steps in the process. It’s the difference between a smooth, stress-free installation and the kind of costly surprises nobody wants.
Jump to the FAQs to get quick answers about window tech measures (how long it takes, what to prep, HOA/alarms, and more).
Why We Do a Tech Measure
No one wants to be “basic”, we all wanna be different. I’m here with some good news, every single one of your homes is different. Even if it was built with standard window sizes decades ago, houses shift, settle, and age. A window opening that looks like a perfect rectangle might actually be a little out of square, bowed, or warped.
That’s why we don’t just rely on the measurements taken during your consultation. A tech measure is when a dedicated technician comes back out to your home to:
- Take precise measurements down to fractions of an inch.
- Check for issues like wood rot, water damage, or lead paint.
- Confirm details about trim, sills, and surrounding materials.
This crucial step ensures your new windows are ordered correctly, built to fit your home, and ready to perform for decades.
It’s kind of like shoes. You might wear a size 10, but not every size 10 shoe actually fits the same. A tech measure is like trying them on and lacing them up, it makes sure you’re comfortable for the long run.
What Happens During a Tech Measure
Here’s what you can expect when your tech measure is scheduled:
1. Call-Ahead
Our technician (like Jim from our team) will give you a call about 30 minutes before arriving, so you’re never stuck wondering when someone’s about to knock.
2. Walkthrough & Measurements
We’ll go window by window, measuring down to fractions of an inch. Depending on how many windows you’re replacing and where they’re located, this can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and a half.
A project with a few kitchen windows? Quick. A house with 25 windows, including some tucked upstairs behind furniture can take longer. We want to be sure every window, no matter the location, is getting the same precise treatment.
3. Pre-Install Checklist
This isn’t just “tape measure on the wall and gone.” Our tech will sit down with you to cover a checklist so you’re 100% prepared for installation day. We’ll talk about things like:
- What’s the best way to communicate with you through your project (text, call, email)?
- Do you need HOA approval, and do you want us to hold your order until it’s squared away?
- Do you have alarm systems connected to your windows? (That matters!)
- Do blinds, curtains, or furniture need to be moved before installation?
- Any lingering technical questions we can clear up now?
4. Condition Check
While we’re measuring, we’ll also be looking for wood rot, water damage, or lead paint. If we spot anything, we’ll flag it now, so you don’t get ambushed with surprise costs or delays later.
5. Final Confirmation
All of the notes, measurements, and details go straight to our production team. That way, your windows are built to fit your home exactly, not just a “close enough” guess.
Why It Might Take a While (And Why That’s a Good Thing)
Here’s the thing: if someone blows through your home in 15 minutes and says they “got everything,” that’s not a flex...that’s a red flag.
Think of it like a tailor. A good one doesn’t just eyeball your pants and call it a day. They check every seam, every angle, every detail because they know the difference between a suit that fits and one that makes you look like you borrowed your dad’s jacket.
That’s what a tech measure does for your windows. The time we spend now is what saves you from drafts, leaks, and those “uh oh” moments on installation day.
The Little Surprises Homeowners Don’t Expect
Over the years, we’ve learned there are a few things that always catch homeowners off guard during a tech measure. Here are a few “good to knows”:
- HOA Approval: If your neighborhood has one, you may need written approval before we can order your windows. We’ll talk about whether to hold your order until that’s in place.
- Alarm Systems: If your windows are wired, we’ll flag that now so you’re ready to have them disconnected and reconnected after the window installation by your alarm company.
- Furniture & Coverings: Got a big sectional in front of the living room window? We’ll let you know now so you’re not scrambling to move it last minute.
- Access Issues: Windows tucked behind landscaping or upstairs in a tight corner might take more time — and we’ll walk you through that so you know what to expect.
It’s all about setting the stage early so installation day is smooth, not stressful.
Why It Matters to You
Skipping or rushing a tech measure might sound like a time-saver, but it’s usually the exact opposite. That’s how you end up with:
- Windows that don’t fit quite right (hello, gaps and drafts).
- Installation delays because something was missed.
- Surprise costs when hidden issues show up.
We’d rather slow down now, measure twice (okay, maybe five times), and make sure everything is right before your new windows ever hit the truck.
For Our Current Clients
If your tech measure is coming up soon, here’s the quick version of what you need to know:
- We’ll call you before we arrive.
- Make sure we can get to all your windows.
- Expect us to be there anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on your project.
- If we find anything unusual, we’ll explain it right then and there so there are no surprises later.
Think of this step as your installation insurance policy, it’s how we make sure your project is set up for success.
The Bottom Line
At Southwest Exteriors, we don’t cut corners, and a tech measure is the proof. It’s the not-so-secret step that protects you from headaches and makes sure your installation goes smoothly.
👉 Ready to start your own project? Schedule a free, no-pressure consultation today. Every step, from the first conversation to your tech measure to final installation, is designed to give you confidence and peace of mind.
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Window Tech Measure FAQs
Quick answers about what happens during a window tech measure, how long it takes, and how to prepare so installation day goes smoothly. Click the questions for the answers.
How long does a tech measure take?
Most appointments take 30–90 minutes. Time depends on the number of windows, where they’re located (upstairs, tight corners, behind furniture), and any special conditions we need to document.
What factors can make it longer?
- Project size: 20+ windows takes more time than a few.
- Access: Furniture, window coverings, or landscaping in the way.
- Location: Second-story, stairwells, or hard-to-reach openings.
- Conditions: Signs of rot, water damage, or lead paint that need documenting.
Do I need to be home?
Yes, please. We’ll confirm measurements room-by-room, review your pre-install checklist, and answer questions. Plan to be available for the full window-by-window walkthrough.
What should I do to prepare?
- Clear a path to each window (move furniture/blinds if possible).
- Secure pets.
- Have HOA details handy (if applicable).
- Know your alarm/sensor setup (we’ll note which openings are wired).
Will you move my furniture or remove blinds?
For the tech measure, we may ask you to move items that block access. On installation day, our crew can help carefully move items as needed, then place them back—your PM will review specifics with you.
What happens if you find rot, water damage, or out-of-square openings?
That’s exactly why we do a tech measure. We’ll document issues, explain options, and make sure your order and installation plan account for them so you don’t get surprise delays or costs later.
What about lead paint or older homes?
We follow EPA RRP guidelines. If we suspect lead-based paint, we’ll note it and plan safe containment and cleanup on install day.
How do window alarms and sensors affect the project?
We’ll note which windows are wired so you can plan for disconnection/reconnection. Your PM will coordinate timing and responsibilities.
Is there a cost for the tech measure?
No. It’s part of our process to ensure custom, exact-fit windows and a smooth installation.
Will you re-measure on installation day?
Yes, our crew verifies critical dimensions on arrival. Because the windows are ordered to the tech measure, this is a final confirmation before install begins.
Do I need HOA approval before you order?
Many HOAs require written approval. We’ll note this during your tech measure and can hold the order until you’re approved to avoid delays or change fees.
Who should I contact if I need to reschedule?
Just reply to your confirmation text/email or call our office. We’ll find the next best slot and make sure your project stays on track.
What’s the benefit of a tech measure vs. “standard size” windows?
Homes settle and shift so there’s no true “standard” opening. A tech measure gives you custom-fit windows that seal properly, prevent drafts/leaks, and perform for decades.