When Is the Best Time to Get New Windows in the Midwest?

Winter is coming, which makes now the perfect time to invest in replacement windows if your current units are in need of an upgrade. Today, Renewal by Andersen® of Cincinnati discusses the benefits of replacing your windows in the fall.

The Ideal Weather 

Contractors will have an easier time working in the mild autumn weather than in the scorching heat of the summer or blistering cold of winter. There is also a smaller risk of a weather-related delay in the fall, since conditions are generally more pleasant.

The Midwest’s temperate fall weather also offers several practical advantages. For one thing, caulk adheres to window frames better in warmer weather, specifically in temperatures between 40- and 80-degrees Fahrenheit. Fall weather is usually not too warm and not too cold—it’s just right. 

Depending on the kind of window you’re installing, the temperature can make a big difference. For example, vinyl and aluminum expand when temperatures rise and contract as they fall. If the caulking hasn’t had enough time to harden yet, any movement can cause cracks. 

Better Deals on Windows

You can also get better deals on specialty windows during the fall. Demand for home improvement projects dips in winter, which is why many contractors offer discounts in the fall in an attempt to maximize their sales before business starts to slow down. 

To make sure your new windows don’t develop leaks in the future, we recommend observing some of the following precautions: 

1. Schedule Installation Work at Midday – Experts recommend scheduling your window installation on a sunny day. It takes roughly 24 hours for some sealants to fully cure—any contact with water can weaken the sealing on your window. 
2. Ask Your Contractor to Use Silicone-Based Caulk – Even in cold temperatures, silicone-based caulking can adhere to windows better than latex or acrylic caulk. If you’re installing vinyl or aluminum windows, you can request sealants with high joint movement to ensure the caulk can accommodate any contractions. 
3. Drape Plastic Over Any Wall Opening – Freezing wind can enter your home while your windows are being replaced, especially with styles like bay windows. Draping a sheet of plastic over the opening helps reduce the amount of heat leaking out of your home.

Hunting for Great Bargains

Suppose you happen to find a great deal on new windows—don’t buy them immediately. First, make absolutely certain that they’re the right size for your home. You might be buying a window that comes in a size not usually found in homes, which is why it’s on sale. Why Custom Windows Are Better

You’ll be essentially wasting your money if you buy an ill-fitting frame. Off-the-shelf windows will likely have gaps that can let in cold air, raising your heating costs. The only way to make sure your windows will be a perfect fit is to invest in custom units.

The Renewal by Andersen Signature Service

Renewal by Andersen offers a wide range of customization options. From casement windows to double-hung windows, we’re to have a window style you’ll like. 

You won’t have to worry about finding a qualified contractor either. We’ll handle everything, from the drafting of the window designs right down to the installation in your home.

Want to learn more about our premium windows? Renewal by Andersen of Cincinnati offers a wide variety of window styles, including double hung windows. To schedule a free consultation with one of our design experts, call us at (866) 609-5033 or leave us a message here. We serve homeowners in Mason, Sharonville, Loveland, Cincinnati and West Chester, OH.