Best Time to Install Windows: Should You Replace Windows Before Winter?

There's no doubt that winter is the best season to feel the benefit of new replacement windows but the shorter days and unpredictable weather might not make provide ideal conditions for installation.

Winter window replacement does have its benefits though, including the possibility of saving money and having more flexibility with installation dates. We've compared the advantages and disadvantages of installing windows during winter to summer, helping you to find the perfect time to install new windows around your home.

When it comes time to choose the best company to install your new windows, collecting multiple tailored quotes will help you save since you can compare offers to find a good deal. It can take many hours to research the best companies to work with, and even longer before you finally get some quotes to compare.

Alternatively, you can use GreenMatch’s free quotes service. All you have to do is fill in our form, then we’ll find the most suitable window installers in your area. Simply click the button below to get started!

You won't be able to get an exact quote for window replacement without an installer coming to your property to consider the style, size and type of windows you'd like. However, to help give you an idea of cost, installing double-glazing with uPVC frames around a 3 bedroom house could end up costing between £4,400 and £7,400.

There are many different window frame materials available so let's start looking at potential window replacement costs by looking at material and size.

As we mentioned earlier, it's not just down to material and size but the style of window you choose and, again, there are many options available.

In addition to the costs of the windows, you'll also need to consider the price of installation. We highly recommend sourcing multiple quotes for the work you need so that you can compare them, giving you the greatest chance of finding the best possible deal.

To make this easier, you can get free quotes from up to 4 local window installers by completing our simple online form.

A general rule given to homeowners when it comes to installing new windows, is to see how the current ones perform during winter as this is the best time of year to spot issues with the current windows.

Winter advantage 1: Installers could be flexible with dates

Window installers are likely to have less work during the winter, giving you more choice when it comes to finding a date and time to have the new windows installed.

Winter advantage 2: Possible discount on the installation

Following on from the first advantage, having less work could mean that the installer is able to offer a reduced price. You may even be eligible for window grants if you are looking to replace single glazing with double glazed windows.

Winter advantage 3: You won't have to worry about being cold during the winter

Having brand new windows installed around your home during the coldest part of the year will mean that you get to feel the benefit straight away.

While there are several advantages to a winter window installation, it's also important to consider the possible downsides.

Winter disadvantage 1: Heat loss

When the window being replaced has been removed, heat is easily able to escape your home and cold weather can get in, which can lead to an increased demand for central heating during the installation. To help, the installer might install one window at a time.

Winter disadvantage 2: Could take longer

While installing one window at a time during the winter might be good for minimising heat loss, it could make the installation process much longer. This is only if the installer plans on replacing one window at a time, so it's worth asking beforehand.

Winter disadvantage 3: Sealant could struggle to set

Sealant is used to fill gaps and cracks around windows to prevent water and draughts from entering the home. The trouble with installing new windows in the winter is that if there's moisture in the air, more likely in the winter than summer, the sealant won't be able to set as it should.

The thought of having your windows taken out during the winter might have already convinced you to arrange the window replacement for summer when the weather is warmer. However, while there are many advantages to a summer window installation, there are a few disadvantages too.

Summer advantage 1: Less chance of bad weather

The most obvious advantage to having windows installed during the summer is that there's a much greater chance of the weather being better than winter. Thanks to the warmer temperatures, having the existing windows removed won't cause the same level of disruption as it would during the winter.

Summer advantage 2: More daylight hours

Not only will the weather be better but the days are longer too giving installers more time during the day to get the windows installed.

Summer advantage 3: Ready for winter

When the temperatures are nice and your windows spend more time open than closed, it can be easy to forget that winter will soon come around again. Having windows installed ahead of time helps to give you the peace of mind that when the temperature begins to drop, you have new windows that will help to keep the cold outside and warm inside.

On the face of it, summer might seem like the perfect time to have new windows installed, but like winter, it doesn't come without its disadvantages.

Summer disadvantage 1: Installers are likely to be busier

With the weather being better, it's likely that lots of homeowners will have the same thing in mind and want to improve their home. So, to get a summer window replacement you might have to book well in advance.

Summer disadvantage 2: Moisture in the air

Warm air holds more moisture than cold air, which could cause a problem when it comes to the sealant setting and moisture getting trapped between the wall and the window.

Summer disadvantage 3: Insects

The hot weather not only brings moisture but a variety of insects and bugs that will be able to easily get into your home during the window replacement.

There's nothing to stop a window installation being carried out in the rain, however, if sealant is being applied to the outside of the window, some types can require up to 24 hours to set before they can be exposed to water. For this reason, the installer might not carry out the installation if there's heavy rain.

In addition to this disadvantage, when it's raining installers shouldn't be using electric power tools and moisture can get trapped between the window and the wall which can lead to mould.

To learn more about the best installers operating in your region, take a look at our local windows pages:

Windows can absolutely be installed during cold weather. The biggest concern with replacing the windows in low temperatures is there will be a hole in the wall between the existing windows being taken out and the new windows being installed.

A peak time for window replacement is during the spring as homeowners will have spotted issues with their existing windows during the winter.

If you're looking for flexibility with dates and times to have new windows installed, installers are most likely to be quiet in late Autumn and early winter. It's worth bearing in mind that the weather could prove a problem at these times of the year though.

Getting multiple installer quotes is the best way you can save money on new window installation. You can either spend lot's of time finding the most suitable installation companies, or you can get up to 4 quotes in a few short steps.

It's simple: fill in our form, then we'll connect you with up to 4 installers within 48 hours. You can then compare their offers until you find a good deal. It's 100% free and you're under no obligation to accept any of the quotes you receive.