Window replacement may seem to be a fair-weather job, but replacing windows in winter offers unique benefits.
After a slow start to the winter season in many regions, Old Man Winter has made his presence known. When the mercury drops and frozen winds start whipping, cold air can find its way into your home. Any break in your home's "envelope" — the home’s outer shell of that protects the inside from the elements — is a prime source for air leakage.
Typically, windows account for the most surface area in your home's envelope openings. And when you have old or inefficient windows, air leaks can make the temperatures inside uncomfortably chilly during the winter — not to mention the added wear on your HVAC system as it struggles to maintain the set temperature.
Will winter window replacement make your home a freezer?
Your old, leaky windows may have you considering a window replacement project, especially if the inside of your house is cold during the winter.
‘But, wait,’ you wonder. ‘Why would I replace my windows in the winter? My house will be freezing during the project!’
This is where research comes in handy. When looking for a window installer, ask about the procedures they follow to keep your home from getting cold during installation.
Best practices for winter window replacement jobs
Interview potential window installers and ask them specifics about their installation process. Here are four key practices installers should use during winter window replacements:
1. Remove one window at a time: During a window replacement project, installers should remove only one window at a time and replace it with the new window before moving on to the next one. That way, they limit the amount of openings exposed to the cold air outside.
2. Use plastic floor-to-ceiling barriers: For larger openings, the installer should cover the opening with plastic floor to ceiling barriers. One example is installing bay or bow window, which are made of a number of windows such as double pane and picture windows.
3. Keep doors closed: When replacing a window, the installer should keep the door to that room closed, limiting the amount of cold air that can find its way into adjoining areas of the home.
4. Cleanliness practices: Along with winter cold comes mud, whether from rain or snowfall. Installers should use tarps, shoe-covering booties and other practices to ensure your home remains clean.
Reasons to replace your windows during winter
Once you choose an installer, you now feel more comfortable about scheduling your window replacement in the winter. But there are other benefits to replacing your windows during the winter season:
1. Scheduling: Often, contractors and installers experience a lull in business during the winter months, especially after the holidays. Chances are you can get your window replacement scheduled much sooner than you could in the spring or fall.
2. Affordability: Along with easier scheduling, contractors and suppliers may offer discounts, sales or other incentives during this slower season.
3. Lower monthly expenses: Once your new windows are installed, you will experience the benefits of energy efficient windows. In addition to warmer rooms, you should start seeing immediate savings on your winter energy bills.
Installing replacement windows can be a winter job
Your old, leaky windows can make your home uncomfortably chilly in the winter. Hiring the right contractor to install your replacement windows will keep your home comfortable during this winter project. And will you gain the benefits of easy scheduling, potential discounts and reduced energy bills.
So don't be afraid to schedule your new window replacement!
Are you considering a window replacement project this winter? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
As of Jan. 15, 2016, this service provider was highly rated on Angie's List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check Angie's List for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie's List.
