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6 tips on maintaining your windows for greater longevity

6 tips on maintaining your windows for greater longevity

Windows are a crucial component of any home and, because of that, they need regular maintenance. By following a few easy steps, you can easily keep your windows clean and lengthen their lifespan. Here are some proven window maintenance tips that you can follow to protect your windows from damage and malfunction.

1. Checking caulk joints

Sealants or caulks are used around the window perimeters to provide water insulation. Over time, these caulks get damaged and deteriorate. Check whether there are cracks or signs of shrinkage on the caulks so they can be repaired on time. Window glass also has a sealant that should be checked for signs of damage. Window maintenance experts suggest applying the caulk joints twice a year. If you are a DIY enthusiast, applying caulking on cracked and damaged areas will not be an issue. However, if the damage is too much, it is best to avail services of window repair and maintenance professionals to achieve the best results. 

2. Lubricating the windows

Over time, the lubricants in the window hinges, handles, and cranks decrease, resulting in a stuck or jammed window. Situations like this take a toll on the lifespan of windows so lubricating the window hardware once a year is a necessary step in window maintenance. Furthermore, keep a tab on the windows and look for any damage that might require repairs. 

3. Cleaning the windows

Keeping the windows clean is a tried and tested method for window maintenance. Fiberglass, aluminum, and vinyl windows require less maintenance than wooden windows. Depending on the season, you can make a routine of cleaning the windows once a month. Diluted soap can be used to clean the railings and the debris accumulated on the hinges whereas a surface cleaner can be used to clean the glass surface. After you have cleaned the windows, make sure to lubricate them as well. Perform your window cleaning routine especially before the start of the winter season as it will prevent corrosion and debris build-up during these extremely cold conditions.

If you have wooden windows, keep them dry and clean as wood is prone to mildew growth. A wet cloth with a mild detergent can be used to clean wooden windows but remember not to oversoak the windows as too many chemicals from the cleaning detergent can damage the varnish on the surface.

Look for chipped paint as these areas can soak up moisture, leading to mold growth and wood decay. Addressing the issue immediately and calling in wood window repair services can assist you in making the necessary repairs, saving you from paying hefty costs for window replacement. However, if you are a DIY enthusiast, minor repairs like filling wood filler in cracks or sanding down a flaky surface would do the trick. When choosing a window repair service, always ensure the service provider is reliable and has a good reputation in terms of providing quality services. 

4. Weatherstripping windows

Weatherstripping the windows protects them from extreme temperatures and environmental damage. Similar to caulking, the weatherstripping applied to the windows deteriorates and needs to be replaced for better protection against air and heat seepage. Weatherstripping also protects the windows from excess moisture and works best in humid environments. 

5. Repainting the windows

Most commonly, wooden windows need to be repainted more compared to aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass windows. Painting wooden windows protects them against erosion, mold, and termite infestations. Repainting metal windows does a similar job by preventing corrosion and rust build-up. Repainting not only improves the lifespan of the windows but also enhances their look. 

6. Maintaining window tracks and railings

The window tracks can accumulate debris, moisture, and dirt. Cleaning the tracks of the window frame will keep them clean and improve the functionality of your windows. The railings on sliding windows can be vacuumed first to gather dirt and dander. After you have vacuumed the area, use a mild soap and a cleaning sponge to remove the build-up debris. In areas with heavy rainfall, the sliding railings can rust quickly so applying the anti-rust coating and keeping the railing lubricated will improve the window lifespan by many folds. 

Chipped and cracked windows might not bother you during normal weather conditions, but during heavy rainfall or extremely hot temperatures, these cracks can become a nightmare. These cracks allow air and water to seep inside and can be easily broken during high winds or heavy rainfall. It is crucial to replace cracked windows as the glass can cause injury when it breaks. 

Following adequate window maintenance aids in ensuring the longevity of your windows and helps keep a cap on the energy costs. Not only that, well-maintained windows enhance the appearance of your home’s exterior, giving it a striking and clean look. Hopefully, the tips we shared will aid you in maintaining your windows in a hassle-free way.

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