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The winter season in Canada comes to an end, but it can be harsh on windows due to extreme weather changes, which can cause damage to them. It is always a good opportunity to assess the durability of windows and determine if it is time for a replacement before the spring season. Expert Ecoline Windows reviews provide insight into the five common problems that could affect windows during winter, along with solutions to address them.
Why Might Windows Experience Problems in Winter?
Winter brings excess moisture and temperature fluctuations that can build up pressure over time. This built-up pressure can seriously affect some window parts, especially if the old units lack insulation and modern energy efficiency properties. Over time, windows may show signs of damage they take during winter.
Common Window Problems Before Spring?
1. High Energy Bills
Windows with poor insulation properties or damaged seals are prone to air leakages and cold drafts, leading to increased energy bills. Air leakages force the HVAC unit to work harder to keep a room warm, resulting in a large energy bill at the end of the month. According to the National Resources of Canada, the average Canadian household spent over $2,102 on heating and cooling their homes in 2019, with heating bills making up 64% of the entire energy utility bill, which means $1,345 was spent on heating alone. A damaged window can further increase the energy bill.
Investing in the best windows in Alberta equipped with double or triple glazing will help lower energy bills and bring more comfort to your house.
2. Ice on Windows
During the cold season, the moisture remains inside your home and ultimately appears on the window pane. When the surface temperature outside gets below the dew point, the water vapour transforms from gas to liquid, which then freezes and builds ice crystals. Over time, the ice buildup can cause the window glass to warp, leading to visible cracks or outright breakage. It is essential to clean off the excess moisture that might build up on the window before it turns to ice, especially if using old single-pane windows.
3. Condensation on Windows
Condensation can appear as slight frost or visible condensation caused by high humidity and is visible on the inner, outer, or middle layers of the window glass. A dehumidifier indoors or switching on ceiling fans can reduce the impact of condensation. Plastic insulation kits for windows can also help reduce the amount of condensation on windows.
4. Rotting of Wood Frames
Wood frame rot is often a problem for old-style homes with old wooden-framed windows. Aside from warping, the temperature change can lead to a buildup of moisture, leading to damaged frames and resulting in increased energy bills. To prevent this, check and inspect the windows for any signs of rot before, during, and after the winter season.
Window experts recommend replacing wood windows with modern Canadian vinyl windows for better durability, noise-cancelling properties, and energy efficiency.
5. Leaky Windows and Drafts
The main use of windows is to prevent elements from entering the house. Cold drafts or air leakages indicate that the seal features of the windows are worn out.
Replacing the window with a better energy-efficient unit or working towards fixing the worn-out seals on the windows can solve this issue. Checking for damaged exterior caulking, re-sealing the glass to the gasket with clear silicone caulk, and ensuring the sill at the bottom of the window frame is pitched downward to drain water in the exterior direction can help reduce window leaks.
Solutions to Improve Thermal Performance and Save Money
By utilizing the solutions above to address the problems that could plague windows during the winter season, homeowners can significantly boost the thermal performance of their homes and save money. If old windows are damaged beyond repair, replacing them with a more durable, energy-efficient option before or during the winter season can provide more comfort and peace of mind, saving a lot more energy and money in the long run.
Additional Tips to Improve Window Performance during Winter
In addition to the solutions listed above, homeowners can take additional steps to improve the performance of their windows during winter, such as:
Utilize window treatments: Window treatments, such as curtains or blinds, can help reduce drafts and air leakages.
Install storm windows: Storm windows offer an extra layer of insulation and help reduce heat loss during winter.
Maintain proper humidity levels: Keeping the humidity levels inside the house between 30% to 50% can reduce the chances of condensation forming on the windows.
Use weather stripping: Weather stripping is an effective way to seal gaps and air leakages around windows, helping to keep the home warm during winter.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, winter can cause significant damage to your windows, resulting in increased energy bills, wood frame rot, ice buildup, condensation, and leaky windows. Homeowners can combat these issues by investing in energy-efficient windows, conducting regular maintenance checks, and utilizing window treatments, storm windows, weather stripping, and maintaining proper humidity levels. With the right approach, homeowners can improve the thermal performance of their homes and save money in the long run.
