Window “winter–summer mode” is a MYTH

The myth that window hardware should be adjusted according to the season emerged several years ago. It has since been widely promoted by numerous online resources as well as many window companies.

Do the so-called “winter” and “summer” modes for hardware locking cams actually exist, and should they be switched?

Pavlo Morozov, Director of the MACO Representative Office in Ukraine

“There is no need for such switching — it is completely unnecessary from a technical point of view. We (window company, editor’s note) adjust the hardware once during installation, setting the locking cam compression against the gasket so that the window closes tightly regardless of the season.”

Ihor Ishchenko, General Director of the Siegenia Gruppe Representative Office in Ukraine

“There is no such thing as a ‘winter’ or ‘summer’ mode. The locking cam should remain in the central position, as this ensures the optimum compression of the window. The adjustment option is provided only to correct specific issues. For example, if something happens to the gasket over time, the compression can be adjusted to prevent draughts.”

Ivan Bohdan, Commercial Director of Winkhaus Ukraine

“The terms ‘summer’ and ‘winter’ modes for locking cams are indeed used in the window industry and refer to the ability of locking cams in hardware systems to change the compression force by rotating the cam, either pressing the sash more tightly against the frame or reducing the compression. However, the technical documentation describes this option as the ability to adjust the compression when necessary (to achieve the compression level specified in the technical catalogue for a particular profile system). It is not related to winter or summer temperatures and is certainly not something that must be done.
Randomly rotating locking cams by end users who have been ‘advised’ to do so by various online resources or even by window sales representatives may result in incorrect sash compression and, consequently, draughts and improper window performance.
All requirements for the proper operation of a window are set out in the product technical passport, including cleaning and lubricating the hardware and the gaskets. However, the technical documentation for windows contains no requirement to change hardware settings according to seasonal temperatures.”

Conclusions

Leading window hardware manufacturers did not design their products with a “winter” and “summer” switching function because there is no technical justification for it.
Interestingly, some window companies also spread misinformation about the need to readjust windows. Since they gain little or no benefit from misleading customers in this way, this points to a low level of professional competence.

Therefore, if you read or hear recommendations from a company advising you to switch hardware locking cams to “winter” or “summer” mode, simply move on and avoid dealing with an unprofessional service provider.