While it may seem like a great deal to get replacement door and window services during the off-season, there are also several additional factors to consider such as time, safety, and temperature concerns. Good sales can make it worthwhile but it is important to understand the pros and cons of requesting these services when conditions are not ideal.
Pros
Discounts:
December typically accounts for less than 3% of annual sales. January less than 4%. As a result, great deals can be had when buying directly from the manufacturer. This is because we try not to lay factory workers off during the slow times since re-hiring and re-training are difficult things to do each spring. The same theory applies with installation crews. Therefore, legitimate and substantial savings can be had during the winter months.
One window at a time:
In winter, only one window at a time will be removed and one window at a time installed (as opposed to in warmer weather when 5, 6 or 10 windows can be removed all at once). Because of this cold air entering the home isn’t an issue, especially if the door to each room is closed when the relevant windows are being replaced. Typically, the window opening will remain open to the elements for less than 10 minutes, so the cold temperatures outside don’t affect house temperature very much at all.
Quality of service:
In most weather, the quality of the installation doesn’t need to be compromised at all. Most good quality caulking and foam insulation adhere and set in temperatures as low as -5 degrees Celsius. Caulking and foam insulation must be kept warm before use, which is easy to do, as the installers simply bring it into the home prior to application.
Cons
Time:
Installations taking place during the winter months will take longer to complete as mobility around the site (snowdrifts, ice) and bulky winter clothing make access to window openings more difficult, sometimes impossible.
Temperature:
Quality can be compromised if temperatures are too cold, usually below -5°C, as caulking won’t adhere and foam won’t fully expand if too cold. Extreme cold temperatures can also be uncomfortable and cause workers to rush to get inside and warm up. Installations can sometimes be messier if installers don’t take good care as snow and salt can be easily trekked into the house.
Safety:
Winter weather creates potentially dangerous conditions for installers: imagine carrying a window up a ladder which has been placed on icy snow in freezing cold conditions and it is easy to see how accidents can happen.
Conclusion:
Look for legitimate sales to make a winter door and window purchase worthwhile. If you buy right, it can be worth the extra time it takes to install. However, be sure to use a company with plenty of experience in winter installations: look for how long they’ve been in business, reviews, and 3rd party accreditations. If a company has been installing in a cold climate for a long time without issues, then they’ve likely taken the time to train their installers in proper winter installation techniques and winter safety concerns. If you’re not sure about the company’s experience in winter installations, it is better to stay away as repair costs could far outweigh initial savings.
