Which Exterior Renovations Can Be Done In The Winter And Which Should Wait?
Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am. Have your most pressing home improvement questions addressed by calling or texting 651-989-9226. Here’s the must-know information our COO, Andy Lindus, shared on 11.28.20.
A common misconception about home window installation is that it cannot be completed in the winter months. In actuality, during full frame window replacement, the rough opening is exposed to nature’s elements for a limited period of time which allows for this project to take place year-round. Although it can be tempting to save funds by installing storm windows, they are prone to condensation. This occurs when the warm internal air of the home meets the cold surface of the energy inefficient storm windows. Storm windows also prove problematic because they are prone to drafts and seal failure.
While asphalt shingles can be installed in the winter months, special care must to be take in order to keep installers safe and to ensure that roofing materials are not damaged during installation, as they can easily become brittle. With regards to price, asphalt roofing tends to be a more cost-effective option than standing seam metal roofing. A major reason for the price difference is that a metal roof takes significantly longer to install, upping labor costs. However, it’s wise for homeowners in story and a half homes that consistently experience ice dams to opt for metal roofing in tandem with spray foam insulation over asphalt shingles.
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Gutter installation is another home improvement project that has the possibility to happen in the winter months. Rather than temperature, the biggest determinant about whether installation should take place is how much snow and ice is on the roof, as heavy masses of snow and ice can be released during the removal of the old gutters, proving treacherous to installers working on ladders and scaffolding. This unsafe scenario can be circumvented by steaming portions of the roof.
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