Colder or warmer temperatures, the first flurries or snow melting, and people changing the clothes in their wardrobe. These are all the signs we notice when the seasons shift. How often do you consider your windows and doors when the seasons change? Climate change has also affected how our seasons change, including drastic changes in weather patterns and rising temperatures. Those fluctuations in temperature can have a huge impact on your home, and it's important to know how to prepare it. Here's what you need to know and when it's time to call a glass company for service.
Weather Changes
A shift from warmer weather to the cold temperatures of winter and vice versa can affect various parts of your windows and doors, from the hardware to the frames and more. Wooden frames see the most changes, as wood can shrink in dry conditions and warp when exposed to too much moisture. Frames can shrink in the extreme cold, while humidity can cause the frame to warp and bow. The hardware on your windows and doors can also suffer from extreme changes in temperature. Complex latches, such as those on casement windows, can see the biggest issues. The formation of ice on the hardware can make operating these windows more difficult. You might experience air leaks as the seasons change and the temperatures get colder. Windows without proper glazing and worn weatherstripping can lose heat. Insulated glass sealed units help prevent heat loss, and is a longer lasting solution compared to just weatherproofing. Freezing weather can also cause stress cracks in your windows. This can happen due to drastic temperature fluctuations, causing buildings to move and shift.
Condensation
As the weather changes, you may notice condensation forming on your glass. Seeing condensation on your windows isn't always a bad sign. It can mean that your windows are energy-efficient and doing their job.
Condensation occurs because humid or warm air inside the house can't escape through your windows.
However, if your regular home maintenance turns into wiping down the windows every day, you might want to take steps to reduce the moisture in your home.
Broken Seals and Foggy Windows
Do your windows seem foggy, and is it difficult to look outside? Seasonal changes and repeated exposure to the elements can cause your window seals to deteriorate.
Damaged seals can result in foggy windows.
When dealing with a broken window seal, you may need to have the window glass replaced by a local (experienced) glass company.
How Weather Fluctuations Impact Your Windows and Doors
As we mentioned, fluctuations in temperature and humidity have a big impact on wood. Wooden components in your doors and windows can shrink or warp, which can result in them getting stuck, or jammed or feel drafty.
Many homeowners have made a switch from wooden frames to vinyl and aluminum, which are less likely to be affected by seasonal changes.
You may also notice ice forming on your windows and doors in winter. This is due to the fact that warm air escapes your home through these cracks, and it freezes when exposed to the outside air.
Contact Your Local Glass Company
We can't stop the seasons, but we can protect our homes from the changes in temperature and humidity. If you have old and inefficient windows or doors, you may notice these signs. In that case, it may be time to call a professional glass company for a replacement. Alder Glass & Aluminum Ltd. offers quality windows and doors installations in Winnipeg. Our expert technicians can repair or replace windows and doors affected by seasonal movement and weather changes. Contact us today for a quote.