The quality of your windows has a bigger impact on your home than you might realize. The curb appeal, security, safety, usability, and energy efficiency of your windows are all dependent on their quality. As such, poor quality windows and windows that have experienced wear and tear over time will need to be replaced. However, before you schedule a window replacement estimate, consider the weather. The weather has a big impact on the success of your window installation.
Replace Your Windows When Temperatures are Warm
If your existing windows are showing their age and you need to have them replaced, then consider waiting until the summer season to do so. Replacing your windows is best done when the weather is warm for several reasons. First of all, you’ll be letting in outside air and letting out inside air. If it’s cold outside, you’ll be wasting a lot of energy. Secondly, the caulk used to seal new windows will adhere better in warmer temperatures. The best time to apply caulk is when the temperatures range between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Last, but not least, some materials will expand in warm weather and contract in cold. For example, vinyl and aluminum. If you caulk your windows when it’s too cold, then your caulking might end up cracking once the materials contract due to the temperature. Although installing new windows is best done in warm weather, if the temperatures are too hot (above 80 degrees) then the caulk won’t cure correctly.
Tips For Replacing Windows in the Winter and Fall
Unfortunately, you don’t always get to choose when to replace your windows. If one of your windows has broken, then you’ll need to replace it as soon as possible. A broken window can pose all kinds of immediate problems. The broken glass can be a safety risk, too. Not to mention that broken windows are going to let in outside and let out inside air, which means the longer you let it go, the more your energy bills are going to end up being. As a result, if your window breaks in the winter or fall, then you won’t have the luxury of waiting until summer to replace them.
But don’t worry-there are a few things you can do to ensure a successful window installation during the winter or fall seasons, including:
Scheduling replacement on a warmer day – If possible, choose a warmer day of the week when it’s not raining or snowing even if it’s winter. Try to schedule the appointment for mid-morning as this will allow the materials used in the installation to warm up a bit.
Have a silicone-based caulk applied – The contractor should use a silicone-based caulk instead of acrylic or latex since this will adhere more effectively in colder weather. Silicon-based caulk is also better for weatherization and waterproofing.
When it comes to replacing your windows, timing is everything. If it’s possible, wait until the weather is warm in order to replace your windows. However, if your windows are seriously damaged, then don’t wait to address the issue. Have your windows replaced as soon as possible. Just try to schedule the replacement for a day of the week during which temperatures will be warmer and will be less likely to rain or snow. For more advice concerning the installation of new windows or for information about the window products that we carry, contact us at Armorvue Home Exteriors today.
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