What Happens to Windows in Cold Weather

Condensation and Ice

This isn't as much of a problem here in the dry air of Denver, Colorado like in the more humid parts of the country, however it can still happen. Water vapor comes from moisture in the air and is drawn to the cold window panes. Then when the dew point hits it turns to liquid instead of gas, then temperatures continue to drop and wellah, condensation soon becomes ice. When this happens, it can cause structural issues like rotting, mold and mildew, along with discoloration and cracking. Often times in dry areas like Denver, the moisture is caused from activities going on inside the home. Keeping a dehumidifier in laundry rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens is a great way to reduce the amount of water in the air to prevent condensation from forming on the windows.

Caulking

Applying caulk in cold weather takes both a special type of caulking and a special method. First you must make sure that all moisture and ice is removed from the area. This can mean taking a blow dryer to the area. Otherwise the caulking will not bond properly. The caulking gun must also be kept warm until just before use. Cold caulk wont flow smoothly and this creates a recipe for messes. Time of day also matter when temperatures are really low due to the contraction of materials in the cold. The installation should be done at the warmest part of the day when the materials are not contracted.

Letting in the Cold

A huge downfall of installing windows in the winter is that you will essentially have holes in your house for a period of time so you need to bundle up or crank the heat, or both. Keeping everything else closed will be the easiest way to block energy flow through the home. Find a room where the installation isn't happening, and shut the door, and stay warm there. You'll also find it easier to stay warm if you have just one window replaced at a time which can mean people being in your home longer than when all the windows you've planned to replaced are being being done at once. Another warming option is to create a barrier with a zip wall, but the downfall of that is cost, and you may lose access to some rooms of your home for a day or so.

The Positives

You can see that there are at least three downfalls to getting installation done in the winter. Cold season typically means slow season. And if you can avoid doing window installations right after a bad winter storm, you'll most likely be one of few projects for these installation companies, meaning they have plenty of time for you project and your installation will happen quickly. Holiday season is a good time because most people don't want work being done on their home during that time. Holiday season also means you can score some good deal on product. In fact, even Z Double B is having a black Friday Sale this year. Check it out!

Another Benefit is that you will be able to save on energy for the rest of the cold season, and you'll likely notice it in your next billing cycle as it can save you more than 20% of your energy costs. With that, comes a warmer rest of your winter, no drafts, and staying cozy will be a breeze (or lack thereof!) Regardless of your reason for new windows, getting it done in the winter has both pros and cons that you should consider. But we can help you if you decide that the positives are worth while, or during any season. Give us a call at 303-997-8168 or visit our website at zdoubleb.com.