Window Replacement: What is the Best time of Year?
A window replacement project offers a myriad of benefits, including improved curb appeal, increased safety and security, and lower energy bills from eliminating drafts. If your home needs new windows, you might wonder what time of year is ideal for replacement services. The following guide looks at the best options to help streamline your home improvement project.
When Should I Have Window Replacements Installed?
Spring & Summer
It can be tempting to request replacement services in the summer, especially if heat gain has been a recent problem and energy costs have increased. Late spring and summer installations can also be convenient if your workload has lightened or you have days off for “staycation” purposes. Such installations eliminate the potential for inclement weather delaying your project. Warm weather installations also mean you won’t have to deal with frigid air filling your home like it can when windows are removed during the middle of winter.
However, warm weather installations can equal scheduling conflicts from higher demand since many people desire new windows during late spring or summer for the reasons just mentioned. If you must replace your current windows while it’s warm out, try waiting until midsummer, when demand is typically lower due to homeowners going on vacation.
Fall & Winter
Scheduling window replacements in the fall or winter can create frame adhesion problems depending on the temperature, as latex caulk cures at a significantly faster rate when it is between 40–80 degrees Fahrenheit. Frigid temperatures often cause caulk to freeze and crack, which can create window instability issues.
If you want to schedule fall or winter replacements for decreased demand reasons, request silicone-based caulk that withstands cold temperatures more readily. The product also offers excellent weatherization and waterproofing properties to help your home keep the cold out for the rest of winter.
To avoid a chilly house during a late fall or winter window installation project, ask the contractors to install one window at a time. It reduces drafts to avoid taxing your HVAC system.