Cold Weather: The Source of Window Damage
Even the greatest windows will eventually fail due to cold, dampness, and seasonal changes. Even if it takes decades, it will happen! When you are aware of the risks, you may take precautions to keep your windows from being harmed by the cold and extend their lifespan, avoiding the need for window replacement. Here are a few ways that the chilly season might harm your windows.
Ice
Water expands when it turns into ice, unlike most other materials. This is the main cause of window damage. Water that seeps through cracks and freezes will harm the window frame and seals. Windows can freeze shut, and moist weather stripping can fracture if the water freezes. If the ice hits the window, it poses another risk. It can be broken or cracked by weight. If you live somewhere where ice accumulates on roofs and siding, you should take action to remove it before it becomes too heavy.
Thrown Objects
Did you know that the same thing could happen with a snowball? We’ve all heard the cliched tale of someone tossing a baseball through a window to smash it. It might be strong enough to smash a window if you add enough ice to the mixture or if you conceal a rock in it. In addition to cheeky kids throwing snowballs, storms can toss things against your windows. Windows frequently break during storms when limbs break. Branches might break and fly into your windows during a severe blizzard due to the weight of the snow and ice.
Thermal Shock
If you recall from your high school science courses, things expand and contract in response to heat and cold, respectively. Given enough time, this expansion and contraction will eventually cause fractures in roads, foundations, and even windows. Windows made of vinyl are particularly susceptible to these forces. It’s unlikely that the glass will break, but the seals holding your window panes together might. There is a slight increase in stress with each new season. When condensation appears in between the glass panes, you should replace your window. When such seals break, the R-value of a window drops significantly.
During the harsh cold weather, did you notice any damage to your windows? If so, you can rely on SWS in Spartanburg, SC. We provide first-rate window replacement services. Call us now at (864) 413-7435.