Windows that are broken, damaged, or don’t fit right compromise your home’s security and energy-efficiency. A simple way to give your home a facelift without the time commitment and cost of a major renovation is window replacement. If new windows sound appealing but you think it will have to wait until the weather’s nicer, here are some things you should know about installing new windows in the winter.
Contractors aren’t as Busy
We’re heading into the holidays; the temperatures will drop; and the rains will come – maybe spring or summer would be better. But late fall or early winter are good times to have new windows installed. Homeowners will have more scheduling options since window contractors generally aren’t as busy during November, December and January doing home exterior work. Another factor to consider is throughout spring and summer when window contractors are in high demand some window companies make commercial and larger projects a priority. But in the fall and winter months when there is more time, they can focus on smaller projects.
Problem areas are More Obvious
Winter shines the spotlight on problem areas. Window installers can see first-hand the signs of moisture infiltration from recent leaks when installing windows during colder and wetter weather. Before the old windows are removed, they can more easily identify current problems and troubleshoot them. In spring when temperatures are getting warmer and in summer when it’s drier, it’s more difficult for window contractors to pinpoint leaks and places where the air is escaping.
One Window at a Time
When new windows are being installed, the old windows are removed. To reduce the amount of cold air that enters the house during a winter window installation and the amount of heat loss, window installers do one window at a time. They ensure the door of the room in which the window is being replaced is closed, as are all of the other windows in the house. Once the new window is completely installed, they go on to the next one. This might sound labour-intensive and ending up costing you more. However, experienced, professional window installers know how to get the job done in the most efficient way, keeping heat loss and a higher energy bill down to a minimum throughout the installation process.
Really Stormy Weather
For some of us, our Lower Mainland winters are more snow than rain, but the snow does fall and sometimes even sticks around. While professional window contractors can handle most late fall and early winter conditions, they will re-schedule if it’s raining heavily, there’s a snowstorm or there are active winds that can hinder the installation process.
Probably get a Better Deal
If it’s not an emergency and you don’t need a window replacement right away, window companies frequently give customers a better deal during the late fall and winter. Pricing is more competitive and manufacturers often offer year-end sales and clearances. The process of installing new windows takes approximately four to six weeks, including the time it takes for manufacturers to produce and deliver custom windows. Since it is a slower time for the window business, there are typically fewer manufacturing, shipping, and delivery delays.
Greater Functionality
Particularly if the windows being replaced are single or double-pane glass that is constantly fogging up (a sign the seal has been broken), getting new windows in the winter will immediately increase functionality and energy-efficiency. Energy-efficient windows not only let in more natural light – a plus in wintertime – they also will block out the cold in winter and the heat in summer.
