You have made the decision to install replacement windows in your home. You have done the research and are ready for this valuable home improvement. You know they are energy efficient, increase the value of your home and add style.
Now you just need to know the best time to start this type of project.
There are a few things to consider in cold weather vs warm weather installation.
Let’s look at what they are.
Cold Weather Installation
The first obstacle for installing replacement windows in cold weather
is the higher heating costs during the process. There are steps you can
take to help control this by using floor-to-ceiling plastic to reduce
the amount of cold air that comes in. You can also shut off as many
rooms as possible to keep their heat intact.
If the weather is too cold then the sealants and foams required become hard and brittle. The caulking also sticks better in warmer weather. Silicone sealant is a good option for cooler weather, but it still needs to be warmed up before applying for easier flow.
Also, vinyl tends to contract in cold weather and expand when it gets
warmer. A professional installer is recommended to decrease the chance
of cracking and splitting when the weather warms up.
If your winters are extremely wet and snowy you should wait for a dry
spell before you install replacement windows. Moisture will make it
difficult for the adhesive to cure properly. Wet weather can also delay
the completion of the entire project.
The biggest benefit to cold weather installation is the price of the
materials and even possibly the labor cost is lower. Since spring is the
most common time to install replacement windows the demand is higher
which can run up the price and may even affect availability.
If you want to plan ahead, you can purchase your windows in cooler
weather to save some money and wait until warmer weather to install
them. If you do plan to wait until spring, you need to consider storage
space for safekeeping.
Warm Weather Installation
Installing windows in the winter time might be cheaper, but what if
you don’t want to deal with the cold? Many people prefer installing
windows in warm weather for a number of reasons. Here’s what you can
expect.
Spring
Most people consider the best time for any type of outdoor home
improvement to be in the late spring when the weather is warmer but not
yet hot. The days are longer and the sun is bright.
Since it is the most popular time, installers are very busy. You may
have some scheduling challenges to accommodate everyone’s needs. The
sooner you can get an appointment made, the more options you have.
You do eliminate the need for the plastic sheeting covering for the
openings however and can keep the rest of the house open during the
process. The springtime air will not cause too much a change in your
power bill.
Installing new replacement windows in spring will flood your home
with natural light. Vitamin D is a byproduct of natural light and there
are many health and mood benefits associated with it. These types of
windows will also help block out the harmful UV rays of the sun and can
prolong the color life of your furniture and carpet.
The energy efficiency is not just about the heat bill. You will also
experience lower cooling costs all summer when you install replacement
windows in the spring.
Probably the best part about having your replacement windows
installed during the spring is having the rest of the summer to enjoy
them! The view of your world will be clearer and bright, and as the fun
and outdoor activities increase, you will always return to a stylish and
welcoming home.
Summer
If you didn’t quite make the time to install replacement windows
during the spring, it is still a fine option to do it during the summer.
There are just a few more things to consider.
Summer can bring the increased chance of pop up rain storms. This can
delay the overall process and stretch it out into days waiting for it
to dry. Also, the sealant has to remain dry in order to cure properly.
If at all possible, pick a stretch of time where the forecast seems
dry.
There is one other concern about the caulking. Just as it does not
perform well in cold temperatures, it also does not do well in extremely
hot weather. Again, a professional installer will have the right tools
and products to make sure the job is done right.
While installing in the winter can cause your heating bill to go up,
installing in the heat of summer can cause your cooling bill to go up.
Prolonged periods of time when the window spaces are open may make for
temporary uncomfortable living conditions until the project is
completed.
A little foresight and accommodations can make installing your new
replacement windows a great option whenever you decide to do it.
Prepare the Site to Install Replacement Windows
Regardless of the season you choose, there is some prep work required to make the project go easier.
- Clean the area surrounding the windows; inside and outside.
- Remove furniture and large objects from in front of the windows.
- Use drop clothes to cover close furniture and valuable items to protect them from dust or debris.
- Remove all window treatments.
- During the time of installation, make sure your pets are protected and kept in another room.
There are also steps you can take to ensure your replacement windows last a long time and remain beautiful. Here are some valuable maintenance tips.
Are You Ready
The decision to install replacement windows is a great way to improve
your home’s look, energy efficiency, style, and value. It is an
investment that pays off for years to come.
Driving up to your home and seeing the classy and modern look will
provide a sense of pride and love for the place where most of your free
time is spent. Knowing the extra economic and even health benefits seal
the deal.
At Stouffville Glass we have years of experience to know how to guide
you in choosing the right replacement windows for your home and our
installers and professional and courtesy.
If you would like to know more about our products and services, please contact us today.
