Threats to Window and Door Glass in Sub-Zero Temperatures

Posted February 18, 2025

Winter in Minnesota brings a unique set of challenges for home owners, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. Sub-zero temperatures can cause significant stress on your home’s windows and doors, potentially leading to costly damage. Understanding the threats that cold weather poses to your glass is essential for preventing damage and maintaining your home’s efficiency and safety. To avoid having to replace the glass in windows or doors this winter, Apollo Glass is talking about risks to window and door glass in sub-zero temperatures and how you can protect your home.

Thermal Stress and Cracking

One of the primary threats to window and door glass in sub-zero temperatures is thermal stress. When the temperature drops drastically, the glass cools down quickly while the air inside your home remains warmer. This temperature difference causes the glass to contract, putting stress on it. If the temperature variation is extreme, it can lead to cracks or even breakage, especially if the glass is already compromised or if the window or door frames are improperly sealed.

How to Protect Against Thermal Stress:

Ensure proper insulation around your windows and doors to reduce the temperature difference between the interior and exterior.
Consider installing double-pane or triple-pane glass, which provides better insulation and reduces the stress on the glass.
Regularly check your windows for any existing cracks or weaknesses that could worsen under thermal stress.

Condensation and Frost Build-Up

When warm, moist air inside your home comes into contact with the cold glass surfaces of your windows and doors, condensation can form. Over time, this moisture can accumulate and freeze, leading to frost build-up on the interior or exterior of your glass. This is especially common in homes with high humidity levels or poor ventilation. Frozen condensation can obstruct your view, cause difficulty opening windows, and even lead to damage if left unchecked.

How to Prevent Condensation and Frost:

Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in your home during the winter months.
Open blinds or curtains to allow warm air to circulate around your windows and prevent frost from building up.
Install ventilation fans in areas prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Ice and Snow Accumulation

Sub-zero temperatures often bring snow and ice, which can accumulate on the exterior of your windows and doors. The weight of snow or ice resting on the glass can put pressure on the window panes and cause cracking. Additionally, frozen moisture that seeps into tiny cracks in the glass can expand when it freezes, further damaging the glass and the surrounding frame.

How to Protect Against Ice and Snow Accumulation:

Regularly remove snow and ice from around your windows and doors to reduce the risk of damage.
Use gentle tools (such as a soft-bristle broom) to clear away snow and avoid putting pressure on the glass.
Consider installing storm windows or doors that provide an extra layer of protection from the elements, reducing the risk of ice buildup and protecting the primary glass.

Wind Chill and Pressure Changes

Even if the temperature itself is not extremely low, wind chill can exacerbate the effects of cold weather. Strong winds can increase the pressure on your windows and doors, especially if the seals around the frames are not properly maintained. When this pressure combines with the low temperatures, it can lead to warped frames, drafts, or even broken glass in extreme cases.

How to Mitigate Wind Chill and Pressure:

Check the weatherstripping and seals around your windows and doors to ensure there are no gaps where cold air can enter.
Upgrade to impact-resistant glass or insulated glass to withstand higher levels of pressure and temperature changes.
Install storm windows or storm doors to add an extra barrier against the wind.

Frozen Window Mechanisms

Freezing temperatures can cause frozen window mechanisms in sliding or casement windows, making it difficult or impossible to open or close them. This issue is more common in older windows, where the mechanisms or seals may be worn out. In some cases, ice can form around the window hardware and prevent it from functioning properly.

How to Avoid Frozen Window Mechanisms:

Lubricate window tracks and hinges with a silicone-based lubricant before winter sets in to ensure smooth operation.
Regularly inspect your windows for signs of wear and tear, and replace any broken or worn-out components before the cold weather hits.
If ice does form around the window mechanisms, use a space heater or hair dryer (on a low setting) to gently thaw the frozen components.

Water Seepage and Damage

Water seepage becomes a significant concern in sub-zero temperatures, especially if your windows or doors are improperly sealed. When moisture enters through tiny cracks in the glass or frames, it can freeze and cause the frame material to expand and contract, potentially leading to warping, mold, or mildew growth. This can also cause structural damage to both the frame and the surrounding areas.

How to Prevent Water Seepage:

Inspect your windows and doors for cracks or damage, and reseal them as needed.
Apply weatherstripping to ensure a tight seal and prevent water from seeping into the gaps.
Consider high-quality silicone caulk for sealing cracks around window frames and doors to protect against water damage.

Now that you know the threats the cold Minnesota winter can pose to your window and door glass, taking proactive measures will help prevent damage and keep your home safe, warm, and energy-efficient. If you encounter cracked or broken windows this winter, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apollo Glass. Our skilled technicians are ready to provide professional replacement and restore the security and comfort of your home.