The demand for new residential windows has been increasing nationwide, with more than $20 billion in sales in 2022 alone. Florida alone accounts for about 10 percent of all national window demand.
This is attributable to the realization that high-quality windows can improve energy efficiency, among other benefits. In places like Florida, it can mean standing up against strong winds and other storm-related hazards.
Most qualified installers can replace windows any time of year. However, several factors will impact installation time and cost.
This article covers what those are. Keep reading to learn more about the best time to replace windows, so that you can determine what is right for your home or business.
Why Replace Windows?
First, it is important to understand the many advantages of installing new windows. Some of the most common ones include:
- Improved energy efficiency and reduced energy costs
- Enhanced comfort
- Reduced noise pollution
- Improved security
- Reduced maintenance
- Increased home value
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat lost or gained through windows is responsible for between 25 and 30 percent of residential heating and cooling costs. Upgrading to more energy-efficient windows can help conserve energy. This, in turn, can reduce your monthly utility bills, especially during the coldest and hottest months.
Better insulation from state-of-the-art glass and window design has other advantages as well. It can make it easier to heat and cool spaces in the building, making more congruous temperatures throughout. This can increase comfort in your home year-round.
Better insulation can also reduce noise. This can be particularly advantageous if you live on a busy street or a more populated area with heavy foot traffic.
Modern windows made of durable materials are easier to maintain. They can also withstand harsher weather conditions, making them last and function much longer than older ones.
Finally, new windows can also greatly increase the value of your home. This is due to both curb appeal and the lure of energy efficiency for prospective buyers.
When Is the Best Time to Replace Windows?
Many different factors can impact home improvement timing in terms of window installation. Here are the main ones to consider.
Material Costs
It is worth stating at the outset that the best time to buy new windows does not always line up with the best time to install them. That is because many manufacturers run seasonal sales during times of year when there is low demand.
For instance, you may be able to find great deals on windows during the spring and fall, but installation demand could be higher (and costs could reflect that). Also note that window costs will vary depending on the material, size, style, and brand you select.
Discuss with your contractor your window replacement goals and see what kind of material they recommend for your home or business. This can help you determine what advantages you can achieve relative to the cost of the windows.
Temperatures and Weather Conditions
Weather conditions and temperature can influence when to install windows as well. Long periods of heavy rain or other precipitation can delay the installation process.
More moderate temperatures can make the work go much faster, which is more convenient and can keep labor costs down. For instance, caulking adheres much better in warmer temps but can be slow to set in colder conditions.
In most places, this means that summer and winter are the least desirable times of year to replace windows (based on this criterion alone). The potential for rain, heavy wind, or extreme temperatures could delay the project for days or even longer. But the state of Florida is different than most.
Seasonal Challenges and a Team’s Dedication
While weather conditions such as heavy rain or strong winds can occasionally cause delays, Lemon Bay Glass works diligently to ensure every project is completed with precision and care. Their experience navigating Florida’s unique climate means they are well-prepared to guide you through the process and help you choose the best time for installation.
With the right planning and trusted local expertise, upgrading your windows can enhance your home’s safety, energy efficiency, and curb appeal, even during Florida’s most unpredictable seasons.
Hurricane season in Florida runs from June 1 to November 30 annually, often presenting unique challenges for home improvement projects like window and door replacements. Yet, Lemon Bay Glass has built a reputation for stepping up when the community needs it most before and during the season. For over 35+ years, the team has worked tirelessly following devastating hurricanes, sometimes under difficult conditions without running water and other standard utilities, air conditioning during the hottest temperatures of the year, and without normal phone services to meet the needs of those devastated by these rash storms.
Through it all, Lemon Bay Glass remains steadfast in its commitment to keep Englewood and other Suncoast communities safe and secure. Whether it’s replacing old windows with hurricane impact-resistant ones or providing expert consultations, their focus has always been on delivering service that exceeds expectations.
Having trust in a knowledgeable local contractor is the best thing you can do to get you through your next window or door replacement project. They will assist you in planning your project to best meet your budget and timing for installation, and they will ensure necessary products are available, and the proper procedures are followed.
Contractor Demand
Like almost any other service, contractor demand is another consideration when determining the best time to replace windows. This is also related to climate and other factors.
For instance, in recent years, Lemon Bay Glass has had to work around long manufacturing production cycles of windows and doors. This became especially challenging in 2020-2022, during the height of the global pandemic. Window and door materials were in short demand, and production lagged due to worker outages.
In Florida and other hurricane-prone areas, there is often a surge in orders leading up to hurricane season. Higher demand means you may need to wait longer on the schedule. It could also result in paying premium prices for labor and other installation costs.
The good news is that most good contractors will be upfront with you about their schedules and any delivery or installation delays in particular. They will strive to ensure competitive pricing and not gouge customers during high-demand periods.
This transparency has been a cornerstone for Lemon Bay Glass, guiding the company through challenging times and every day as it opens its doors to serve the community. Ultimately, selecting the right contractor for your replacement window and door projects is key. Keeping this in mind will help you make a well-informed decision about the best time to schedule your window replacement.
How Long Does It Take to Replace Windows?
The time it takes to replace windows depends on several factors. The process usually begins with an assessment of your current windows, a design phase, and time for replacement window and door installation. You must allow time for shipping or manufacturing custom windows, if your installer does not have them in stock or you have unique sizing or design requirements.
Once planning is complete and the windows and other materials are in hand, installation can commence. This process can be impacted by the number of windows in your home or business, as well as the complexity of the installation. In most cases, experienced installers can complete almost any project in one to three days.
Find Window Upgrade Advice and Installation Near You
Now that you understand the factors that can impact the best time to replace windows, you can proceed in confidence. A reputable installer can further advise you on variables that can influence seasonal window installation speed and costs, and provide other window replacement tips.
Lemon Bay Glass has been bringing experience, professionalism, customer service, and quality workmanship to the Englewood, Florida, area since 1985. All of our windows and doors have State of Florida Certification for hurricane protection and energy conservation.
Reach out to us today to learn more.
