Summer brings sunshine, outdoor activities, and a chance to relax in the warmth. However, it also brings scorching heat and high humidity, which can take a toll on your home. Understanding the impact of summer heat and humidity is crucial in order to protect your windows and maintain a comfortable living environment.
During the summer months, the intense heat can cause your windows to expand, leading to potential damage and reduced energy efficiency. Additionally, high humidity levels can create condensation on your windows, leading to moisture related issues such as mould and mildew growth.
Whether you’re considering protecting casement windows, awnings, or any other types of components, it is essential to take proactive measures, especially with the climate growing more unpredictable.
Benefits of Keeping Your Home Cool and Energy Efficient
Maintaining a cool and energy efficient home during the summer months offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it ensures that you and your family can enjoy a comfortable living space, even during the hottest days. This is particularly important for individuals who may be more susceptible to heat related health issues, such as the elderly or those with respiratory conditions.
Additionally, a cool and energy efficient home helps to reduce your environmental impact. By minimizing the energy consumption required to cool your living space, you are contributing to the overall sustainability of our planet. Conserving energy also means reducing the demand on power grids, which can help alleviate strain during peak usage times and prevent blackouts or brownouts in your area.
Common Window Issues During Summer
Dirt, Dust, and Debris
One common problem is the buildup of dirt, dust, and debris on your windows. This not only obstructs your view but can also affect the overall performance of your windows. Another issue is the deterioration of weatherstripping, which can lead to air leaks and decreased energy efficiency.
The Impact of Humidity
Humidity affects our homes and our bodies, too. High humidity can lead to mould and rot, while low humidity can cause dryness and damage to wood and drywall.
If you’re interested in optimizing your windows for summer weather and reducing the impact of humidity, here are some tips to consider:
- Install and utilize a ventilation system in high moisture areas like the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Incorporate roof vents to facilitate the escape of warm, moist air.
- Increase air circulation by opening blinds and drapes throughout the house.
- Crack open windows during bathing or showering to reduce humidity levels.
- Promptly repair any leaks in pipes or fixtures and dry surrounding areas.
- Keep organic materials away from cool, damp spots to prevent moisture buildup.
- Properly ventilate sources of moisture like indoor hot tubs, houseplants, and during cooking.
- Avoid venting your dryer indoors to prevent excess humidity.
- Schedule regular roof inspections to ensure proper sealing of shingles, flashing, and chimney caps, especially during fall.
- Clear eavestroughs of debris regularly and extend downspouts to divert water away from the home.
Window Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Regular window cleaning is essential for maintaining the appearance and functionality of your windows. Start by removing any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush or cloth. Using a mixture of mild soap and water, gently scrub the glass surfaces, ensuring it reaches all corners and edges. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and use a squeegee to remove excess moisture. Lastly, dry the windows with a lint free cloth to prevent streaks or water spots.
In addition to cleaning, it’s crucial to inspect your windows for any signs of damage or wear. Look for cracks, chips, or broken seals, as these can compromise the insulation and energy efficiency of your windows. If you notice any issues, it may be necessary to repair or replace the affected windows.
Weatherstripping and Sealing Windows
Properly sealing your windows is a crucial step in maintaining a cool and energy efficient home. Start by inspecting the weatherstripping around your windows and doors. Over time, weatherstripping can become worn or damaged, leading to air leaks. Replace any worn out weatherstripping to ensure a tight seal.
Another effective way to seal your windows is by using caulk. Check for any gaps or cracks between the window frame and the wall and apply caulk to seal them. This will prevent warm air from entering your home and cool air from escaping. Additionally, consider using weatherstripping tape to seal gaps around movable parts of your windows, such as sliding sashes or casements.
Upgrading to Energy Efficient Windows
If your windows are old or inefficient, upgrading to energy efficient windows can provide significant long term benefits. Energy efficient windows are designed to minimize heat transfer, keeping your home cooler in the summer and reducing the workload on your cooling system. They feature multiple panes of glass with insulating gas fills, coatings, and advanced frame materials to maximize energy efficiency.
Window Coverings and Shading Options
In addition to proper window maintenance, utilizing window coverings and shading options can further enhance the cooling and energy efficiency of your home during the summer months. Consider installing blinds, curtains, or shades to block out the intense sunlight and heat. Choose light colored coverings that reflect heat rather than absorbing it.
Additionally, exterior shading options such as awnings or exterior blinds can provide effective sun protection for your windows.
Different Types of Windows and Their Suitability for Summer Weather
Explore options for windows for summer home renovations to ensure optimal comfort and energy efficiency in the warmer months.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward, allowing for excellent ventilation. They are excellent options for the summer.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward, creating a canopy like effect. These windows are ideal for hot and humid summers as they allow for ventilation even during light rain. By opening the windows slightly, you can let fresh air in while keeping rainwater out, ensuring a comfortable and dry living space.
Hung Windows
Hung windows, which slide vertically, can be optimized for summer by utilizing window coverings such as blinds or curtains. These coverings can help block out the sun’s heat and reduce glare, making your home more comfortable. Additionally, consider installing weatherstripping to seal any gaps, preventing hot air from entering your home.
Slider Windows
Slider windows offer versatility and ease of use, making them a popular choice for summer homes. To protect these windows from heat and humidity, consider installing shading.
Triple Glazed Windows
As you may already know, triple glazed windows are a fantastic choice for the summer as they provide enhanced insulation. The extra layer of glass and insulating gas between the panes helps to minimize heat transfer, keeping your home cooler. Additionally, these windows reduce outside noise, creating a peaceful indoor environment during the summer months.
Here are some triple glazed window and door products at Golden Windows:
GoldenVinyl® 1000 Series
GoldenVinyl® 1000 Series windows offers numerous advantages, the most significant being its outstanding thermal performance.
- Available in awning, casement, hung, slider, architectural and fixed style
- Select from 4 available colours: white, black, sable, taupe
- 30 optional and custom colours available
- Available in dual or triple pane
- 4 diffferent Low E Options, all include Argon gas
- Multiple grille options including grilles between the glass and simulated divided lights (SDL)
- Choose from Colonial, Victorian, Muskoka or Custom Grille Patterns
- Exterior Brickmould and sill nosing are available
- Standard hardware or upgrade to the Encore™ hardware system
- Enhanced comfort, especially closer to the windows
- Reduction of indoor condensation
- Greater acoustic insulation for some types of traffic noise
GoldenClad® Triple Glaze
GoldenClad® Triple Glazed windows offers numerous advantages, the most significant being its outstanding thermal performance.
- Available in awning, casement, hung, slider, architectural and fixed style
- Select from 4 available colours: white, black, sable, taupe
- 30 optional or custom colours available
- Available in dual or triple pane
- Wood interior, available in Pine, Oak, Mahogany or wood species of your choice
- Narrow rail profile available for more modern style
- 4 diffferent Low E Options, all include Argon gas
- Multiple grille options including grilles between the glass and simulated divided lights (SDL)
- Choose from Colonial, Victorian, Muskoka or Custom Grille Patterns
- Exterior Brickmould and sill nosing are available
- Standard hardware or upgrade to the Encore™ hardware system
- Enhanced comfort, especially closer to the windows
- Reduction of indoor condensation
- Greater acoustic insulation for some types of traffic noise
GoldenVinyl® Patio Door
Our GoldenVinyl® Patio Door offers excellent durability, effortless operation, low maintenance and superior energy efficiency.
- Select from 4 available colours: white, black, sable, taupe
- 30 optional and custom colours available
- Frame made of wood and PVC ensuring exceptional sturdiness
- Narrow rail profile available for more modern style
- Stiles are reinforced with steel for added rigidity
- 4 different Low E Options, all include Argon gas
- Sash panels are co extruded with dual flex vinyl which surrounds the entire glass unit for an optimal seal.
- Multiple grille options including grilles between the glass and simulated divided lights (SDL)
- Choose from Colonial, Victorian, Muskoka or Custom Grille Patterns
- Screen door with extruded aluminum frame and fiberglass mesh for increased service life
- Rugged self lubricating nylon tandem panel rollers ensure easy sliding patio doors
- Reduction of indoor condensation
- Optional twin point mortise lock reduces the risk of break ins
- Greater acoustic insulation for some types of traffic noise
Why Get Windows Professionally Installed
While choosing the appropriate windows for your summer home is crucial, ensuring professional installation is equally important.
Reputable window installers offer several advantages:
- Expertise in measurement and installation for energy efficiency and prevention of air leakage
- Guidance on suitable window options within budget and design preferences
- Warranties for peace of mind
For installation services, consider contacting Golden Windows: an appointment with an Installation Sales Representative will be scheduled for a free onsite measure and discussion of window and door options. Following approval of the quote, a Certified Installer Team member will finalize measurements and schedule installation, ensuring a hassle free process. The experienced Certified Installation Team guarantees expert installation tailored to various house shapes and styles.
Tips for Keeping Home Cool in Summer
Read these tips if you’re looking to keep your home cool in the summer:
- Use Window Coverings: Keep blinds, curtains, or shades closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight and heat.
- Ventilation: Open windows during cooler times, such as early mornings and evenings, to allow fresh air to circulate through your home.
- Fans: Use ceiling fans or portable fans to create airflow and promote evaporation, which helps cool the air.
- Strategic Cooling: Focus cooling efforts on rooms you’re actively using rather than trying to cool the entire house.
- Avoid Heat Generating Appliances: Minimize the use of heat generating appliances like ovens, stoves, and dryers during the hottest parts of the day.
- Seal Leaks: Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering.
- Insulation: Invest in insulation to keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter by reducing heat transfer through walls and ceilings.
- Shade: Plant trees or install awnings to provide natural shade to your home, especially on the southern and western sides where the sun is strongest.
- Cooling Technology: Consider investing in energy efficient air conditioning systems or portable air conditioners for particularly hot days.
- Limit Indoor Heat: Reduce indoor heat by cooking outdoors on a grill or using smaller appliances like microwaves instead of ovens.
Summer Window Maintenance Checklist
To summarize the essential summer window maintenance tasks, here is a checklist to help you stay organized:
- Clean windows inside and out using a mild soap and water solution.
- Inspect windows for cracks, chips, or broken seals and repair or replace as needed.
- Check weatherstripping around windows and doors and replace any damaged or worn out weatherstripping.
- Seal gaps or cracks around window frames using caulk.
- Consider upgrading to energy efficient windows to maximize energy efficiency.
- Install blinds, curtains, or shades to block out excess sunlight and heat.
- Explore exterior shading options such as awnings or exterior blinds.
- Hire professionals for thorough window cleaning and complex repairs or replacements.
About Golden Windows
At Golden Windows, we’re proud of our reputation as one of the top window companies in North America.
We manufacture top quality windows and doors at our Kitchener, Ontario plant. We also collaborate with reliable suppliers, dealers, professional builders, and renovators to ensure your complete satisfaction with your new windows and doors.
Check out our GoldenClad®, GoldenWood®, and GoldenVinyl® product lines to find the best window and door solutions for your needs.
As summer approaches, it is crucial to take action to shield your windows from the heat and humidity. By understanding the impact of summer weather on your windows and choosing the right window solutions, you can keep your home cool, comfortable, and energy efficient.
You can visit one of our three showrooms in Kitchener, London, and Kanata to check out our line of excellent windows for the summer.