Windows are meant to protect your home for a long time, often anywhere from 15 to 25 years. However, just when is the best time to replace windows? And how do you know it’s time?
Homeowners often overlook window replacement, which plays a crucial role in home maintenance. That’s why our guide is here to help you learn more about when to replace windows, what season of the year is the best time to install replacement windows, and more.
- When to Replace Windows
- How Long Does It Take?
- Seasonal Considerations
- Signs For Replacement
- Preparing For Replacement
- Finding Your Windows
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When Is The Best Time to Replace Windows?
You can replace windows at any time of the year, but some seasons offer varying advantages depending on your project goals. If you’re looking for the cheapest time of the year to replace windows, contractors often run deals in the fall or winter. This means it’s possible to buy your windows at a different time than you place on installing them.
Some other factors to consider for the best time of year to replace windows include:
- Weather: Replacing a window in the winter is clearly a much different project than replacing it in the summer, so it’s important to take weather into account.
- Contractor Availability: Many contractors are busy in the spring and summer months, meaning it can be difficult for installing replacement windows without booking their services far in advance.
- Personal Convenience: Make sure you also take your own needs into account. After all, the best time to replace windows ultimately comes down to when you have the budget and availability to do so.
The Process: How Long to Replace Windows?
Before determining when to replace windows in your home, it’s important to understand what the process is like. While the actual installation of windows generally only takes a few hours per window, there are many other aspects of the timeline to consider, including:
- Planning and designing period
- The actual time it takes to make and craft the windows
- Shipment timelines and potential delays
- Contractor timelines
- Installation and maintenance process
Depending on the number of windows you need, the complexity of the project, and other factors, this timeline can vary, taking anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
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When Do You Need to Replace Windows? Seasonal Considerations
So, seasonally, when should windows be replaced? The season can influence how easy the installation process is, if your contractor is available for the window replacement project, and any potential money you may save.
Some seasonal considerations to keep in mind about the process are listed below.
Spring Window Replacement
Spring is often a favorable time when to replace a window because of its milder weather and increased daylight. The moderate weather conditions also enhance the energy efficiency of the project. However, the higher demand for these months generally means higher prices and longer wait times, which is important to keep in mind.
Also, there may be an increase in pests that can get into your home if you don’t take the right precautions.
Summer Window Replacement
Summer window replacement offers the benefit of quick installation during the warmer temperatures, but it may still be more expensive during this time from the high demand. Also, it’s important to note that the heat and the time it takes to replace the windows may cause your home to lose some energy. If considering replacing your windows in the summer, it’s important to plan for the process.
Fall Window Replacement
While the weather is cooling down in the fall, it also means that contractors are often in lower demand, meaning the windows and replacement services themselves will often be cheaper. Additionally, replacing your windows in the fall can prepare your home for the colder winter months, improving overall energy efficiency when you need it most.
Winter Window Replacement
Can you replace windows in the winter? While it’s not often the most popular time because of the cold weather, it’s still possible to replace windows during this season. Windows are cheaper during this time, and experienced contractors – like Minnesota Exteriors – can mitigate potential issues with cold drafts with proper insulation techniques during installation.
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Signs It’s Time to Replace Windows
When should you replace windows? Besides the seasonal aspects to keep in mind, other considerations can indicate when you should replace windows as well. Some factors that may point towards the need to replace your windows include:
Drafts and Energy Leaks
If your windows are closed and locked but you’re still noticing air or drafts coming in, this can be a sure sign of energy inefficiency. These drafts and temperature fluctuations can also indicate that bugs, water, and dirt enter your home, causing even more issues.
Drafts are one of the most noticeable factors that lead to replacing your home’s windows.
Increasing Energy Bills
Rising energy bills can also be another indication that your windows aren’t insulating your home effectively. If you notice increasing energy bills but aren’t sure why, installing a replacement window may be your next move.
Difficulty Opening, Closing, or Locking
Windows that are difficult to open, close, or lock may have deteriorated frames or could have warped over time, signaling that it’s time for replacement. Windows should do all of these things with ease, so if they’re not working properly, it may be time to reach out to Minnesota Exteriors for new windows.
Condensation Between Glass Panes
Are you noticing an excessive amount of condensation or fogging between your window panes? This may indicate that the window’s seal has a problem, which reduces insulation effectiveness and requires a replacement. Installing recommended replacement windows can save you money and improve your overall view as well.
Visible Damage or Rotting Frames
If you notice signs of rotting, cracks, or warping, this can indicate structural damage to your windows, meaning that installing good replacement windows is imperative to maintain your home’s integrity and aesthetic.
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When Is The Best Time to Replace Windows?
You can replace windows at any time of the year, but some seasons offer varying advantages depending on your project goals. For example, if you’re looking for the cheapest time of the year to replace windows, contractors often run deals in the fall or winter.
Some other factors to consider for the best time of year to replace windows include:
- Weather: Replacing a window in the winter is clearly a much different project than replacing it in the summer, so it’s important to take weather into account.
- Contractor Availability: Many contractors are busy in the spring and summer months, meaning it can be difficult for installing replacement windows without booking their services far in advance.
- Personal Convenience: Make sure you also take your own needs into account. After all, the best time to replace windows ultimately comes down to when you have the budget and availability to do so.
Preparing For Replacing Windows
So, how are replacement windows installed? When you and your home are finally ready for the process to start, preparing for window replacement is necessary. There are several ways to prepare for replacement so it goes smoothly.
- Clearing the Installation Area: Make sure you clear away anything near the installation area, such as small furniture, knick-knacks, and window treatments. This gives the contractors a clear and open space to finish the job quickly.
- Covering Furniture: The window replacement process can be a bit messy, depending on what season you have it done in, so ensure you cover your furniture to protect it from debris, dirt, and potential pests.
- Touching Up Landscaping: It’s important that there aren’t any trees or branches obstructing the window crew. Trim back any landscaping that might get in their way.
- Deactivating Window Alarms: If you have any alarms on your windows, make sure you deactivate them before the contractors start work.
- Communicating With Your Contractor: Finally, ensure you communicate with your contractor to ensure that everything is up-to-date on the timeline and process.
How To Find The Best Place To Buy Windows
Finding the best time to replace your windows, along with what the process will look like, is only half the battle. Finding a reputable contractor that will install the best replacement windows for your needs is crucial. Working with a skilled company like Minnesota Exteriors will ensure your home stays protected.
- Warranty Options: Does the company offer a protective warranty or lifetime warranties in case something damages the windows later on down the road?
- Types of Products: What types of windows does the company offer? Are they energy-efficient windows?
- Quality of Work: What is their work like? Does their website showcase before-and-after photos?
- Customer Reviews: Are customers satisfied with the company’s work? What are the company’s online reviews like?
Contact Minnesota Exteriors For a FREE Window Replacement Estimate
If you’re looking for a company that will expertly install or replace your windows, trust Minnesota Exteriors. We offer free window replacement estimates before we start any project, ensuring that you have all the information you need. Our team of incredible industry professionals has been repairing homes for over 75 years, meaning we have the skills and experience your home needs.
Reach out to our team today to learn more about our energy-efficient, durable, and beautiful window options. With countless shapes, sizes, and options, we’re Minnesota’s go-to window replacement company.