When's the best time to replace your windows here in Dodge City? It's a question I get asked a lot, and for good reason. Our climate isn't exactly mild, is it? We've got those scorching summers and then winters that can really bite. Timing your window replacement right, and then taking care of those new windows, makes a big difference in how long they last and how much comfort they give you.
Picking the Perfect Season for Installation
Look, we can install windows year-round if we have to. That's just part of being a contractor. But if you've got the flexibility, there are definitely better times than others. For us here in Dodge City, I usually tell folks that late spring and early fall are your sweet spots.
Late Spring (April-May): The ground's thawed, the really nasty winds have usually died down, and we're not yet in the full blast of summer heat. Temperatures are generally comfortable, which means less heat loss from your home during the install and a more pleasant experience for my crew. Plus, we're not fighting frozen ground if we need to do any exterior work around the foundation.
Early Fall (September-October): Similar to spring, the extreme heat of summer has passed, but we haven't plunged into the deep freeze yet. The air is usually drier than spring, which is a bonus, and we're not typically dealing with heavy snow or ice. It's a great time to get those energy-efficient windows in before the winter heating bills start to climb.
Now, what about summer and winter? We do them, sure. But in summer, it's hot. Really hot. That means your AC is working overtime to keep the house cool while we've got openings. In winter, it's the opposite – your furnace is fighting the cold. We take precautions, covering openings and working quickly, but there's no denying it's more of a challenge to maintain indoor comfort during those extreme months. If you're replacing just a few windows, it's less of an issue, but a whole-house replacement in January or July will be noticeable.
Weather Woes: What Affects Our Work
Beyond just the season, specific weather conditions can impact our ability to install. We're not just looking at temperature; we're also watching for wind, rain, and hail.
High Winds: This is a big one in Dodge City. Those prairie winds can really whip up. Trying to safely maneuver large, heavy window units when it's gusting at 40 mph or more isn't just difficult, it's dangerous. For our crew and for your property. We'll reschedule if the wind advisory is serious. Safety first, always.
Heavy Rain or Hail: A light drizzle? We can usually work through that with proper protection. But a downpour or, worse, hail? That's a no-go. We can't properly seal and insulate an opening when it's getting soaked, and hail can damage new materials before they're even installed. Plus, water intrusion is the last thing anyone wants during a window replacement.
Extreme Cold: Below freezing, some sealants and caulks don't cure properly. We use specialized cold-weather products when necessary, but there's a limit. If it's single digits or below zero, we're likely pushing it to a warmer day. We want your installation to last, and that means using materials under optimal conditions.
Protecting Your Investment Year-Round
Once those beautiful new windows from Charis Window Installation Inc are in, you want them to perform for years, right? A little bit of regular care goes a long way, especially with our Dodge City dust and temperature swings.
Clean Regularly: Dust, dirt, and pollen from the fields around town can build up on your glass and frames. Use a mild soap and water solution. Don't use harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, especially on the frames, as they can damage finishes or seals.
Check Seals and Caulking: Every year, take a walk around your house and inspect the caulking around the exterior of your windows. Look for cracks, gaps, or areas where it's pulled away. Our sun and temperature fluctuations can be tough on these materials. If you see an issue, it's an easy fix with a good quality exterior caulk, or give us a call if you're unsure.
Operate Them: Even if you don't open your windows often, give them a workout a few times a year. Open, close, lock, unlock. This keeps the mechanisms from seizing up and helps you spot any issues early.
Clear Weep Holes: Many modern windows have small drainage holes, called weep holes, on the exterior bottom frame. These are designed to let any water that gets into the frame drain out. Make sure they're not clogged with dirt or debris. A small piece of wire or a toothpick can clear them out.
Taking a few minutes each season to check on your windows can prevent bigger problems down the road. You've invested in quality, and a little maintenance ensures you get the most out of that investment. If you ever have questions or notice something that doesn't seem right, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Charis Window Installation Inc. We're always here to help our neighbors.