Is it OK to Install Replacement Windows in the Winter?
Many homeowners worry that installing windows in winter could cause cold air to seep into their home through poor sealants or expansion failure. They worry that installing new insulating foam insulation won’t expand properly or won’t withstand temperature extremes properly.
But these concerns are unwarranted; installing replacement windows during winter installation can actually bring many advantages. In fact, having Calgary windows installed by seasoned professionals during winter can help ensure that expansion and contraction occurs properly with the changing temperatures. Professional installers are also skilled in the tradecraft necessary to ensure that windows are properly sealed for comfort and security. In the end, installing windows for the winter may assist improve insulation performance and lessen the effects of the winter chill while still preserving energy efficiency.
1. It’s easier to spot leaks
Winter window installation doesn’t always fall below spring or summer when it comes to effectiveness; many products used during this process, like sealants and insulation foams are designed specifically to work under both hot and cold temperatures.
As temperatures cool off, air leaks become much more noticeable if your windows don’t seal well enough; one sure sign that it may be time for replacement is when a draft passes in front of them! If this is the case with you, replace them as soon as possible!
After your contractor has installed your windows, they may caulk and use shims to ensure a tight fit by caulking and raising sides with shims to achieve a snug fit. This step is crucial as air leaks are one of the primary sources of energy loss in homes; thus ensuring tight seals save money on heating and cooling bills as well as prevent moisture damage to wood frames from outside air or rainfall exposure.
2. It’s easier to get a good deal
One advantage to installing replacement windows during winter months is that window companies are often eager to secure business, meaning you may find better offers than you would in spring and summer, when companies are more busy.
As you shop for window installation products at your local hardware store, you will likely notice that many materials available have cold weather versions – sealants, insulation foam and adhesives among them.
Winter installations may be vulnerable to delays caused by inclement weather. Although this should not be seen as an issue on its own, prolonged bad weather could prove challenging for installers who are working under tight deadlines to perform installations. When this is the case, companies should work together with customers in finding suitable dates when the weather clears up in order to complete these installations on schedule.
3. It’s easier to get a good installation
Winter window installation is ideal, as professionals find it much simpler to achieve a quality finish in colder temperatures. As caulking and adhesive products used during window replacement become more durable and resistant to temperature changes, your completed product should help keep your home warmer while being more energy efficient than one applied during warmer times.
One common worry among homeowners regarding window replacement in winter is that it will allow cold air into their homes during installation. However, experienced installers take measures to limit this possibility as much as possible during a replacement project in this season; for instance, working one window at a time and closing any interior doors between each replacement project are just two strategies they employ to help minimize drafts entering homes during installation projects.
Before the day of installation, installers usually ask that homeowners remove any snowfall around windows in order to keep themselves and the installers safe while also making accessing them easier.
4. It’s easier to get a good finish
Homeowners concerned about winter window installation often fear sealants and insulating foam won’t set properly or expand in cold temperatures, leaving sealant gaps. While it is true these products don’t work as effectively in low temps, professional grade installers have solutions tailored for use in these conditions by choosing products designed specifically to perform.
Installers are also better able to do a more thorough job when they focus on one window at a time instead of several simultaneously, ensuring every window is properly sealed and insulated – preventing drafty homes after windows have been installed.
Replacement windows can save money on energy costs when selecting energy efficient options, but many homeowners believe installing new windows is only worthwhile as summer projects. By delaying their replacement window installation until next summer they miss an incredible opportunity to lower energy bills and save money!
- by Matt Watts
