When the calendar page turns and the weather changes from summer to chilly winters, most things in our home get adjusted without our noticing.
One of the most overlooked things in these seasonal changes is the window. Over time, changes in wind, humidity, temperature fluctuations, and moisture can degrade the window’s functioning. What will be the result? The glass will be foggy, difficult to operate, incur high bills, and urgently require repair or replacement. You need to understand how each season works and what you have to preserve home peace, comforts, and appearance.
How Seasons Stress Your Windows
Every season is different and has its own merits and demerits. Similarly, it has a different effect on windows too. Let’s have a look at how each season is affecting the window.
Spring: Humidity, Rain & Allergens
When humidity increases and storms become frequent, windows have more exposure to moisture and debris. The seals and weatherstripping can wear due to the constant wetting and drying processes. However, the rain can go into small gaps, and pollen can settle in the tracks.
Summer: Heat, UV Exposure & Frame Expansion
During scorching hot, sunny months, window glass absorbs the solar energy. It can produce thermal stress, which will result in seal failure. On the other hand, frame materials like vinyl or wood can expand, causing binding and making it harder for the window to close. UV rays can cause fading in the interior finishes and degrade the sealant.
Frame materials—especially vinyl or wood—may expand, causing warping or binding, which makes sashes harder to open or close. Intense UV rays can fade interior finishes and degrade sealants over time.
Autumn: Temperature Swings & Debris
Fall is marked with significant variations in daytime temperatures and cool nights. These swings lead to frequent expansion and contraction of the materials, straining the seals of the windows and the joints of the frames. The falling leaves and debris could hinder proper draining and ventilation by blocking the drains, tracks, or weep holes. Rot or corrosion of vulnerable material is also likely to be encouraged by moisture being trapped in the frames during the night.
Winter: Cold, Contraction & Condensation
During freezing weather, a contraction of the frames, a stiffening or cracking of the seals, and the opening of gaps may occur. Low temperatures cause the seals and gaskets to be under more stress, and this weakens their capability to keep air and moisture in. Condensation is frequently caused by a temperature difference indoors. When moisture appears between two sheets of the panes, it is an indication of failure of the seal.
Common Problems You May See
- Fog between panes — indicates seal failure.
- Drafts or cold spots near windows — air leakage
- Difficulty opening or closing windows — warping or binding
- Peeling or cracked sealants and caulking
- Visible water intrusion or stains around window frames
- Fading interior furnishings near windows (due to UV)
Why Windows Should Be Matched to Climate
It’s better to opt for glass, low-E coatings, high-performance frames, and reinforced seals, which can mitigate seasonal stresses. The regions where seasonal change occurs, triple lane video, and reinforced composite frames do work well for long-term stability. The proper installation and sealing are critical to make sure that these components work well.
Window Repair & Supply With Atlantic Window Warehouse
Seasonal weather changes are unavoidable, but the weather should not destroy your windows. Even with changing weather conditions, your windows can be used to help them last longer, keep your rooms comfortable, and decrease your energy bills. This can be achieved with regular inspections, proper maintenance, and even with windows that resist expansion, contraction, and moisture intrusion.
Atlantic Window Warehouse comes in to help you when your window troubles start getting you down, whether it’s your fogged windows, leaky frames, or a sticky handle. Our professionals will check the state of your current windows, suggest climate-appropriate solutions, and supply you with the right fit. Call us today for a free quote.