Windows are essential to your home’s function and your happiness. They provide natural light, ventilation, insulation, picturesque views, and much more. However, if you don’t take care of them, they’ll deteriorate prematurely. By keeping an eye on your windows, regularly cleaning them, and addressing any issues promptly, you can maximize their lifespan and ultimately save yourself a lot of time, money, and stress. Scroll down to learn how to maintain windows so that they’ll remain durable, functional, and energy-efficient for many years to come.
The Importance of Window Maintenance
First, just in case you’re tempted to overlook window maintenance, let’s quickly review why regular upkeep is so critical. Not only will it extend the lifespan of your windows, but also it can improve your home’s energy efficiency and prevent water damage. Clean, well-kept windows are also more visually attractive, of course. Moreover, maintaining your windows can reduce drafts and noise and even enhance your home’s security. By taking a little time out of your schedule to clean, inspect, and repair your windows on a regular basis, you can prevent small issues from escalating and keep your home safe, efficient, and comfortable.
How to Maintain Windows
- Review the maintenance requirements for your window material. If you’re wondering how to maintain windows, you must consider the frame material: aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass, wood, etc. While some tips work well for all windows, others are more specific. For example, wood frames need to be repainted or restained, and any cracks must be filled with wood filler.
- Inspect your windows regularly. Look for cracks, chipped paint, broken hardware, signs of rot, and other issues. If you do notice any problems, address them right away. Consult a window specialist if any complex repairs or concerns arise.
- Clean your windows twice annually. Clean the glass, screens, sashes, and frames with a mild cleaning solution and soft cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, and be sure that any product you use won’t damage the frame material. In addition, clean the tracks and lubricate the sashes to minimize friction and ensure smooth operation. Generally, your windows should be cleaned at least twice each year, though this will depend on your climate and windows.
- Check and reseal the caulking. Take a look at the caulking (the flexible sealant, typically made of silicone, latex, or acrylic) around the frame, assessing it for damage. Caulking deteriorates over time, leading to drafts and water damage, so it’s important to reseal your windows as needed. When it’s time to reapply caulking, be sure that you remove the cracked caulking and clean the area completely beforehand.
- Ensure your windows have proper ventilation. If you lock the window and place your hand at the bottom or top of the sash, do you feel any air coming in? If so, a draft is present. Check and maintain the weather stripping, which is a material used to seal the gaps around windows to prevent drafts, moisture, and air leaks. In addition, monitor the window’s condensation, as frequent condensation can indicate that the room has poor ventilation. Good ventilation prevents moisture build-up and mold growth.
- Conduct seasonal maintenance. Depending on your climate and landscaping, you may need to do a few extra steps each season. For example, in autumn, you may need to remove leaves and other debris from your window screens. In winter, you may need to check for ice buildup.
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Are you thinking about window maintenance because you’re in the market for new windows? If so, check out American Window Company. Since 1999, we have offered an extensive collection of high-quality windows, doors, shutters, blinds, and more. We are a small, family-owned business committed to providing excellent quality and on-time installation. In addition, we are properly licensed and insured to protect our employees and provide our customers with peace of mind. Please contact us today for a free estimate or more information about our products and services.
