I will be updating the windows on my home in the next few weeks.
The window installers need 3' clearance out for replacement.
I have Schefflera arboricola as foundation shrubs across the front of my home. I have a 1' clearance from the house currently. The actual planting of the Scheffleras. are 2.5' from the home. If I were to cut them to 4-5" from ground will they return? Should I remove them entirely and replace with something else that doesn't require as much trimming to keep the size in check?

Scott, my friend has these around her front windows, every single spring she chops them down almost to the ground, they come back fuller and more beautiful each time. Your hedge looks nice and healthy so should be no problem. I have green and chop it back every single year, couldn't kill it if I wanted to.

I agree, the area will look a bit empty for a while and tender new shoots might take a hit if there is frost but they will return. Keeping them in check can be a pain but that is a beautiful hedge.

Thank you Sherri and Alice for the news that it will survive the cutback it will require. I went driving through a few neighborhoods this past week to see if I could find another type of shrub that I would like better to fit this location. With my preference not to block my view out the window I saw nothing that caught my attention. I was actually quite surprised how many homes have large growing type shrubs blocking the windows completely.
I like the year round pizzazz that the S. arboricola has and will stay with it.
Thanks again!

I do like the variegated arboricola as a shrub accents close to the house, it is more manageable than other type of shrubs. Pretty pest free too. I don't think I've ever had any trouble with pest on mine.

I had thought that I would need to cut all branches all the way back.
I was able to get the 3' clearance and maintain a nice street view
After the cutback...☺

Great job!

Looking good.

you might look into pittosporum also for a hedge .. or Indian Hawthorne

they both grow slowly and Indian hawthorn needs little to no pruning depending on what variety you get ,,additionally they have lovely flowers

The big box stores have made the arboricola sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo common.,,, they are everywhere ..