One of the ways to expand your window’s lifespan is to show it regular care and maintenance. This not only ensures that your windows and doors will last longer, but it also makes them look brand new all the time.
Some windows need more maintenance than others. For instance, wooden framing is more vulnerable than vinyl or fiberglass. This is why it should be inspected and cleaned more often. To get the maximum out of your window replacement, you just need to follow these tips and tricks on maintenance:
When to Clean your Windows?
Obviously cleaning is a very important part of maintenance. Windows should be cleaned once or twice a year. The cleaning process shouldn’t be rushed and everything should be carefully planned.
Besides following the steps of window cleaning, you should also know these important tips:
- Use a microfiber cloth – Newspapers and paper towels can damage the glass.
- Wash on a cloudy day – Sunshine dries up the cleaning agent faster, without leaving time for rinsing. This is why “after cleaning” window smudges appear.
- Rinse and dry, everything! – Before returning the frame, make sure everything is dried up. You don’t want moisture or mold later on.
DIY Cleaner
You can spend ton of money and energy on buying the right cleaning agent or you can make one at home. DIY projects aren’t recommended for home maintenance and construction. However, this is one of the rare exceptions since it works much better than agents from the store. Here is a popular recipe:
Find a large bucket and start mixing up inside: 2 cups of water, 1/4 cup of vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon of dish soap. Voila!
Repainting Your Windows
Wooden windows must be repainted! This makes them stronger since new paint improves efficiency while also adding a new touch to aesthetics. Here are some very helpful repainting tips:
- Repaint only recently cleaned windows! You don’t want dirt on your path.
- Don’t paint over moving parts! The window can get stuck or loose afterwards.
- Repaint every 3-4 years! This ensures maximum efficiency.
Damages to Your Windows
With time, windows deteriorate. The more you ignore these problems, the bigger they will become. If a crack appears, fix it immediately. This way it won’t evolve into a more serious issue, contaminated with pesticide and rot. In the meantime, here is how to deal with rot the DIY way:
Check your window framing for rot. When you discover it, use a screwdriver to get everything out. After the entire area is cleared from rot, insert epoxy putty in the crack. Use as much layers as needed. Wait for it to dry and then polish the area with sandpaper, primer and paint.
We mentioned how your windows lose functionality with time. There are a couple of signs for poor windows. As soon as you notice at least one of them, schedule a free consultation. The sooner you deal, the less chances for you needing full window replacement. Here are the signs for window damage:
- Cracks and rot
- Pesticide and mold above or around the window
- Looseness
- Difficulty operating
- Bad soundproofing
- High inside temperatures in summer
- Scratched or damaged glass
- Condensation on the inside