Four Ways Cold Winter Weather Impacts Your Windows

Most people who live in Portland, OR are accustomed to the winter. The days are shorter, the temperatures are biting cold. They dress accordingly to face the chill and winter winds. But few people really understand what winter can do to their windows and doors. What is worse, they don’t know the lasting impact some of these problems can have. So here are just a few of the problems to watch for with windows and doors in wintertime:

1. Drafts

Air leaks aren’t a big concern when the temperatures are mild. But window drafts in winter can have a huge impact on your home. Even with the heat cranked up, some rooms in your house will feel freezing cold, not to mention the energy expenses and unnecessary wear on your constantly running HVAC system. You might be able to seal up leaks with caulking or extra weather-stripping. But more extensive damage due to expansion or contraction will require window replacement.

2. Heat Transfer

Like air leaks, windows that do not have proper glazing or insulation can result in heat gains and losses. In the winter this means you lose a lot of heat to the outdoors. It also means the cold can pass through your windows as well. So if your windows are freezing cold to the touch, then you probably need to replace them to double-glazed with inert gas and low-e coatings. These window technologies will reduce heat transfer and keep your home warmer in the winter.

3. Icing

This isn’t as common a problem, especially in new homes. But if humidity is high and temperatures really drop, you can get ice forming on the inside surfaces of your windows. The frost on the glass isn’t as much of a concern as the icing that can also be happening in the small gaps and seals on your windows. If moisture gets in there and expands when it freezes, this can break the seals and cause a number of other problems.  To decrease this problem you will want to ventilate high moisture areas like your kitchen and bathroom. You will also want to make sure your windows are well insulated.

4. Water Damage

Usually after icing comes water damage. When temperatures warm back up the ice melts and seeps into the frame, along the sill, or down your walls. Moisture damage can look like stains, mold, peeling paint, or rot. It can also cause rust on metal parts. Wood and aluminum window frames are especially vulnerable, and you will want to repair damage as quickly as possible before the problem gets worse.

So with temperatures rising in Portland, OR, take the time to look at your windows and see if any winter damage has left you with broken seals or moisture damage. If you do notice condensation between the panes on your windows or air and moisture leaks, now is the time to get replacement windows Portland, OR. At EnenrgyGuard Windows and Doors we offer top quality products at affordable prices. You are sure to find something to fit your needs and protect your home next winter. For more information stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132 or contact 503-554-5500. Stay in touch with our team, find us on the web.