3 Energy-Efficient Exterior Upgrades You Can do This Winter - CWE

There’s no doubt about it that spring, summer, and early autumn are popular times for exterior remodeling. However, New England homeowners tend to bypass window replacement and other energy-efficient exterior upgrades projects based on myths or bad advice.

The truth is that you can remodel the exterior of your home in the winter. The key is choosing an experienced contractor and being selective about your projects.

#1: Window Replacement

It’s a myth to believe that window replacement in MA is impossible during the winter. There is only a small set of circumstances that make wintertime window replacement unattainable. Otherwise, the secret to replacing windows in the winter is in the process.

During the winter, energy loss is a major consideration for homeowners. While inefficient windows can lose up to 25% of your home’s energy, the least of your worries is what is potentially lost during the installation process.

This is how window installation works in the winter:

• Professional window contractors only replace one window at a time during the winter. Using this approach ensures that the process loses little to no energy.
• Workers place plastic tarps over the window opening to prevent further heat loss.
• Expert window contractors typically replace a window within 20 to 30 minutes.
• Workers add caulking and trim after replacing the window, which can add another 20-30 minutes of work.
• If the window is measured correctly, the gap around the window will be minimal—around ½” to ¾”. This room ensures that the vinyl can expand and contract when the weather becomes hot and cold.

One of the issues that might present itself during cold weather window installation is caulking. Some caulking can only be applied between temperatures of 40 degrees F to 80 degrees F. However, using silicone caulk can help bypass this problem since it can be applied in temperatures around 35 degrees F without noticeable performance issues.

In addition to window replacement, another energy-efficient exterior upgrade for the home is roof replacement. Yes, you can do this in the wintertime!

#2: Roof Replacement

If you’re experiencing roofing troubles but wait until the weather is warm to get the project done, you don’t need to delay. Winter roof installation is an attainable project as long as you’re working with a reputable roofing contractor in MA.

• Using the right sealants is key to a successful roof replacement project. Asphalt shingles contain a special sealant that helps them attach to the roof. Contractors must hand-seal each shingle to your roof to ensure its longevity.
• You cannot hammer down asphalt shingles in the winter because they become brittle and may crack. This is the case for both low and high-quality shingles as well as fiberglass roofing.
• Another issue with nailing shingles in the winter is that you must hammer the nail flush to the shingle. Compressors and nail guns can become obstructed by ice, resulting in the nails not going in as far as necessary. The nail may not properly anchor and cause shingles to blow away in the wind. This is why using the right sealant in the winter is so important!
• You may potentially be able to replace your roof at a discounted rate during the winter since business is slower.

Along with replacement windows and roofing, there is one other exterior project that you can tackle in the winter: entry doors.

#3: Entry Door Replacement

Winter takes its toll on entry doors, especially if they are old and made from wood. The good news is that you don’t have to live with an old and drafty door through the winter. You can get it replaced now!

• Replacing an entry door in the winter works similarly to windows. The contractor will place a plastic tarp over the door to help prevent energy loss while working to replace the door.
• Contractors use silicone caulking to ensure it withstands cold temperatures and properly seals around the door.
• A professional entry door contractor can replace your new door within roughly 2 hours.
• You can notice a reduction in drafts immediately after installation! This is especially considering that a drafty door can lose up to 1/3rd of your home’s energy.

Get Energy-Efficient Exterior Upgrades this Winter

You can work on your home exterior projects no matter what the season it is.. From better pricing and promotions to increased energy savings, contact Coastal Windows & Exteriors to get a head start on your home improvement projects.