The Effects Winter Has on Your Windows
Colder weather might not seem like a big deal when you’re staying warm and dry in your home. However, winter weather could be making your home less cozy overall. Knowing more about the effects that cold weather can have on your windows can help you prevent this from occurring.
Air Leaks
Older windows often develop small gaps or cracks in or around their frames over time. While these might seem tiny, they’re big enough to let cold air seep into your home. Cold air leaks can make your home drafty and cause your heater to come on often, which can run up your energy bills. Investing in new windows helps you keep cold air from being able to enter your home. With these installed, your home can stay safe from the cold outdoor air
Heat Loss
Your windows should be able to keep cold air out and warm air inside. When you have older ones without the right glazing or coating, though, you’re likely to lose a lot of heated air through them. Windows with newer glazing, such as low-E coating and inert gas fills, help keep heated air inside your home. This can help your home stay warm all winter long without having to run your heater as much. These features can help you lower your energy bills, even when it’s freezing out.
Moisture Damage
Water from snow and ice can melt and seep inside window frames or window sills. Certain window frame materials, such as wood, are more vulnerable to water damage than vinyl and other materials. This exposure to moisture can lead to stains and discolorations, wood rot, and mold growth. Switching to newer windows made of materials that are more durable can help prevent water damage from occurring.
Icing
Ice can build up inside tiny cracks in window frames when it’s cold out. This can lead to damage to windows as moisture causes these areas to expand. In some cases, window seals can become damaged, which puts your home at risk of severe water damage and drafts. Using exhaust fans can help prevent this since these fans improve ventilation and prevent indoor humidity from getting too high.
Stress Cracks
If the temperature falls low enough, stress cracks can form in window panes. These kinds of cracks might start off tiny, but they typically spread as they get worse. Stress cracks from cold weather are more likely to occur in older windows, such as single pane ones. These cracks can also form in windows that weren’t installed properly. Having double pane windows installed properly can help prevent stress cracks from developing.
Get New Windows This Winter
If you’re considering getting new windows for your home, please contact The Window Depot to learn more about our products. We can help you select high-quality windows for greater indoor comfort and improved energy efficiency. Our installation team can also make sure that your new windows are properly installed, so you don't have to worry about the effects of winter weather.
Sources
https://www.ecotechwindows.ca/blog/the-top-5-ways-windows-get-damaged-by-winter-weather/
https://www.shschi.com/blog/effects-of-cold-weather-on-your-windows/
https://scheelwindows.com/how-does-winter-impact-my-windows-and-doors/