Winter weather can cause a lot of damage to your home. While most homeowners are concerned about roof issues or basement flooding, there is another area of your home to pay attention to – your windows. When you think windows, you typically think about air leaks and energy efficiency during the cold season. Windows are also prone to damage by winter weather, especially older windows that are not equipped with the modern features you see in new windows today. In this blog we will discuss about the top 5 reasons of why a window get damage during winter.
While there are countless things that could pose a threat to your windows, we’ve put together a list of 5 of the most common ways your windows get damaged during the winter:
1. Freezing Temperatures Warp Materials
Ice cold temperatures can impact the materials used in windows. For example, wood can begin to warp and bow when placed under extreme temperatures. This can negatively impact the structural integrity of the window. Vinyl and aluminum windows do not bow when placed under pressure, a reason they have become popular.
2. Cracked Glass
Extreme temperatures put a lot of pressure on window glass. In some instances, the cold has been known to cause cracks. The cold can cause stress cracks that start out small and spread across the window. In most cases, this happens to low quality builder grade windows or old single pane windows. It can also happen to windows that are improperly installed.
3. Ice Build Up
Ice can build up around and against windows. This can lead to windows freezing shut, especially if moisture and water can get into open spaces where the window frame is installed. Ice can freeze and crack weather stripping and create more opportunity for moisture to build up and freeze.
4. Falling Ice
Ice builds up on all areas of your home – the roof, gutters, eaves, and even on the siding. This poses a threat to windows. When ice gets too heavy, or when it starts to melt it will fall. Depending on where the build-up is, the ice could break a window. Pay attention to where ice builds up on your home and do your best to remove it and the hazard it creates.
5. Snowballs
Perhaps one of the biggest enemies of windows during the winter is snowballs. All it takes is one arrant snowball and a window can be broken. So, either work on your throwing accuracy or have your snowball fights away from the house to avoid potential damage.
So, these are the top 5 reasons of why a window get damage during winter.
More Tips To Protect Your Windows This Winter
You can never be too careful when it comes to protecting your windows. Check out these blog posts to learn more window care tips:
4 Reasons Why New Windows Will Keep Your Home Warmer This Winter
5 Tips for Preparing Your Home for a Winter Window Replacement Project
[Infographic] Cost & Energy Savings From New Windows
Schedule An In Home Estimate
Notice some damage to one or more of your windows? Call us at 1-888-880-6827 for a free in-home estimate today! We are happy to discuss your window repair options.
