Window Replacement Plan 2018, Part 1: Can windows be replaced in the winter?

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Window Replacement Plan 2018, Part 1: Can windows be replaced in the winter?

February 12, 2018

For many homeowners, the thought of having to replace windows in the winter sends chills up their spines. It’s not just because of the cold, but because they think replacing their windows in Decatur will come with an array of extra issues due to the time of year. While replacing windows in the colder months does require a few extra hurdles, there are actually advantages that can make winter the right time for window replacement for the knowledgeable homeowner.

Over the next three months, we’ll take a look at how a well-thought-out replacement plan can help save time and money and reduce headaches when it comes to getting high-quality windows added in your home.

People often become aware that they should consider window replacement in the winter. The blustery weather exposes air leaks and other problem areas with existing windows, either through draftier rooms or higher power bills due to energy inefficiency from windows were leaks have yet to be discovered.

Rather than sit back and wait for the spring to make a replacement, consider these ideas about replacing windows during the winter months and check out some ideas that will help service go smoothly:

Winter is a good time to diagnose your windows

Winter time can be a great opportunity to spot drafts or potential gaps in your current windows.

Chillier temperatures cause materials to contract, and may impact performance. As a result, leaks, drafts or other problem areas may be easier to spot. Knowing which windows are problems can help highlight which need to be replaced or repaired. This can help save both time and money over the long run when it comes to budgeting for window replacements.

Having your replacement windows placed during the colder months also allows you to test the window installation also.

You can identify if your windows have excessive drafts or leaks in a variety of ways from the basic to the thorough. Especially if your home has older, single-paned windows, check for damaged glazing (the hard putty that binds panes of glass in place) or weather-stripping. If that seal cracks, your home will be vulnerable to heat loss.

Let technology assist. A non-contact infrared thermometer can check ambient air temperatures at window and door frames. If excessive cold air is seeping into the house, you’ll see it recorded on the thermometer.

Take advantage of energy efficiency right away

A drafty window impacts your budget, especially in the winter. Getting your window replaced will not only make your house warmer for the rest of the winter, but you’ll reduce energy costs sooner, as well.

When looking to replace your windows, think about the future energy efficiency of your windows as it is relevant to your region of the country. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests windows with both the appropriate solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) ratings (depending on your climate), and low U-factors. The U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer and tells you how well the window insulates. Windows with low heat transfer ratings will not only serve homeowners well during chilly months by keeping the heat in, but in warmer months by reducing the amount of heat that transfers in from outside.

Different types of window frames, glazing and glass can also influence the energy efficiency of a window. Speak with the team at Pella of Decatur to better understand the unique benefits that different windows and glass choices bring to your part of the country.

Installation dates are more flexible in winter

Should you decide to replace your windows in the winter, you’ll likely find it more flexible to schedule an installation appointment. This can mean either scheduling a time to have your windows installed in the winter months or, if you still want to wait, getting ahead of the rush by reserving a spring or summer installation date now. Planning your window installation months ahead can help keep other projects on track and help make sure your windows are installed in the correct order with any other renovations.

Know what to expect for winter installations

Researching, purchasing and installing new windows can seem like a daunting task, but taking advantage of the correct windows is well worth it. Here are a few extra ideas to consider when replacing your windows in the winter:

Make sure you know the winter installation plans from Pella of Decatur for Pella product installations. They’ll let you know how to best get ready for installation. Knowing what to expect before installation will make sure that you and the installer can work as easily as possible during the job.

Consider closing off the room where replacement windows are being installed to reduce temperature changes in the other parts of your home. This can be easily done by securing the door to the area where the window is being placed.
The “Pella Promise” means a “No Mess” guarantee when it comes time for installing your windows. That means pros who will leave the work area cleaner than they found it and take away your replaced windows and doors. In the winter, that means extra sealing that keeps warm air in and cold air out during the replacement process. Your installer will also offer advice on how best to safeguard your room from the cold while work continues on your windows.

If your window installation is scheduled after (or during) a period of snowfall, make sure to keep the installation area clean of snow. Taking easy access into consideration as part of your winter window replacement plan will reduce headaches both on the day of installation and after it is completed.

The next part of your home design doesn’t need to be stopped by weather. With a little bit of planning and the pro team at Pella of Decatur, you can take advantage of all the benefits that come with new windows regardless of the time of year. In future posts, we’ll be looking in further detail at the next points of your window replacement plan, including whether a replacement window or new window is right for your home, and a look at what to plan for on the day of installation service.

If you have any questions about the replacement window selections available, the process used during winter months, or anything else, don’t hesitate to call us at 217-423-7722.