When Is The Best Time Of Year To Replace My Home’s Windows?
As the spring air begins to blow away the frigid winter’s past, the sunshine and warm breeze can make you long for change, just like the seasons.
Maybe you’ve been putting off a simple project like raking the leaves in your backyard. Or maybe, this warmer weather is making you look at your home’s windows and wonder, “Is it time for a replacement?”
Thinking about starting a window replacement project can be overwhelming. You’re thinking about many factors, like how much it’s going to cost, what type of windows you should choose, and how the weather affects the window replacement.
You may be wondering, “Is this a good time of year to replace my windows?” This question then poses even more concerns in your mind, like the thought of having windows taken out of your home during the heat of the summer or dead of winter.
Is one time better than another, and is there really a best time of year to have your windows replaced?
Southwest Exteriors has been a window replacement contractor in San Antonio since 1989. While the warmer months of the year tend to be our busiest months, we install replacement windows all year-round.
We know many factors go into your decision for the timing to replace your windows. You want to make sure it will fit into your schedule and budget before jumping into a project.
So, when is the best time to replace your home’s windows? Is there a “best” time? Should you plan to replace your windows based on the season? That’s exactly what we’re going to answer in this article.
After reading, you’ll know if there is a best time of year to replace your home’s windows and how to know when you should replace them.
Is there a best time of year I should replace my windows?
This is the million-dollar question many homeowners ask themselves this time of year.
You may be thinking the best time of year to replace your windows is in the warmer spring and summer months. Maybe for you, the summer allows you extended time off work. Or maybe in your mind, warmer weather means getting outside and getting things done.
The truth is, there is no one time of year that is better than another to replace your windows, and it’s truly up to you when to replace your windows.
Why doesn’t it matter what time of year I replace my windows?
Many homeowners think that all of their windows will be removed at once, and their home will be completely exposed to the outside when thinking of replacing your windows.
If this were true, it would be scary to think of replacing your windows either when it was blazing hot or freezing cold. So, you’d probably be thinking that spring or fall would be the best time to replace your windows.
Professional window replacement contractors handle large window replacement projects by removing and replacing one window at a time.
This means that one window is removed, and the new window is immediately installed in its place, so your home is not going to be wide open for days while you wait for your new windows to be installed. When you look at it this way, the temperature outside will not affect your window replacement or the inside of your home.
While it may be true that the spring and fall provide us with lovely 65 degree weather (for the most part, in Texas), this does not affect replacing your windows.
Now, you may prefer or be tempted to replace your windows during pleasantly seasonal weather. But you may also want to consider replacing them in the winter or summer months before we enter the open-window season.
When should I replace my windows? 3 major signs to consider
Now that we’ve answered whether there is a right time of year to replace your windows, you’re now left wondering, “When should I replace my windows then?”
Three major signs tell you to replace your windows: visual deterioration, foggy windows, and feeling drafts.
1. Visual deterioration on the window
If you notice any visual deterioration on or around your windows, it’s time for a replacement. This could include splitting or cracking in the frame, peeling around the caulk, or trouble with the balance system.
If you open your window and it doesn’t stay open, there is a problem with the balance. Other signs you may notice that show it’s time to replace your windows are if you hear any clicking, popping, or cracking when you try to use them. Something may have broken internally that needs fixing or replacing.
Visual deterioration can lead to the following two problems of fogginess in windows and drafts.
2. Fogginess between window panes
If your windows are foggy between the panes and it doesn’t go away, this is a major sign it is time to replace them.
If the seal is not doing its job around the window panes, it will allow excess moisture and air to get between the panes, causing them to fog or appear hazy. This can obstruct the visibility of the window and also affect the insulation properties of the window.
You may also notice excess condensation forming around the sill of the window, which is a sign that the seal is broken and the window must be replaced.
3. Feeling drafts
Drafts can occur from seal failure, deterioration around the edges, or even poor installation.
While drafts tell you that your windows are not doing their job, they also mean that your windows are not doing you any favors for energy efficiency. Air coming into your house means air is also leaving your house, so you are losing air conditioning in the summers and heat in the winters.
If you notice a draft coming from any of your windows, chances are you have also noticed a slight increase in your energy bills. This is a major sign that it’s time to replace your windows.
The weather matters
The best time to replace your home windows depends on your location and climate. In general, the ideal time to replace windows is during mild weather conditions when the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold. This allows for proper installation and minimizes the impact on your home's heating and cooling system.
In regions with moderate climates, such as the southern United States, late fall and early spring can be good times to schedule window replacement. This avoids the heat of summer and the chill of winter, ensuring a comfortable environment for installation.
In colder regions, such as the northern United States, early fall or late spring may be the best time to replace windows before the extreme temperatures of winter set in. However, if you have urgent window replacement needs, it's best to address them as soon as possible, regardless of the season.
Ultimately, the best time to replace your home windows depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Consult with a window replacement professional to determine the ideal time for your project.
So, how do I know when I should replace my windows?
Now you know that there is really no better time to replace your home’s windows than before it’s too late.
Although warmer weather may prompt you to feel it’s the right time to start a home remodeling project, it’s important to monitor your windows year-round to know when they need some special attention.
If you notice any drafts coming from your windows, fogginess between panes, or visual deterioration, it is time to replace your windows. Another clear sign that your windows aren’t doing their job is if you notice your HVAC system continuously running during the summer and winter.
If you notice that your AC or heater never seems to turn off, that means that air from inside your home is escaping through the windows. There may be damage around the seal of the window, or something may be broken to where the window cannot fully close.
It is also important to note that replacement window costs continue to go up year after year. So, the longer you wait to replace your windows, the more expensive it will be in the end.
At Southwest Exteriors, we know you want to protect your home and make it more energy-efficient. So, if your windows aren’t doing their job, it’s costing you more in your energy bills.
We want you to be properly educated on what to look for to know when it is time to replace your windows. Don’t put off replacing any damaged windows in the summer. Start your project before your windows get worse.
If you notice any of these damages or know your windows are ready for an upgrade, you’re probably wondering how to find the right contractor for your project.
This video will outline six things to look for in a window replacement contractor so you can choose a trustworthy contractor for your project.