After replacing your windows, you want your new additions to last for as many years as possible. With care and attention, you can look forward to a lifetime of excellent insulation, performance, and style for your home. But, how do you maintain your windows to extend their lifespan?
You will need to know the best ways to care for your windows, things to watch out for, and what to do if you have a problem. That way, you can provide the best care for your windows and keep them protected over time.
In this article, we are going to walk you through everything that you need to know about window maintenance. From cleaning to repairs, you’ll be prepared to keep your windows performing for many years to come.
Why is Window Maintenance Important?
Longevity is one of the most important reasons to plan for routine window maintenance. By regularly caring for your windows, you’re ensuring that you get as many years as possible from them. However, there are other reasons to keep up with window maintenance. Not only does routine care extend the lifespan of your windows, but it also provides benefits for you and your home. From comfort to cost savings, there are many reasons you will want to maintain your windows throughout the years. Learn more about the benefits below, then continue on to see our window maintenance tips.
Energy efficiency: Higher functioning windows are more energy efficient. They are better insulated, keeping your home at a comfortable temperature, no matter the outdoor climate. This prevents overworking of your HVAC systems, which is better for the environment, your AC and furnace, and your wallet.
Comfort: While drafty windows will let outside air into your home, your well-maintained windows will limit this transfer. That means that you can be more comfortable, not worrying about drafts or wintertime chills.
Cost savings: By caring for your windows, you ensure they last longer and work more efficiently. This can save you money on your utility bills and prevent premature window replacement.
Here Are 7 Window Maintenance Tips
Now that you understand the importance of regular window maintenance, you will need to know what to do. From cleaning your windows to watching for concerns, you need to know our window maintenance tips to extend the lifespan and safeguard the function of your windows. Explore our tips below.
1. Wash Window Panes
One of the simplest ways to care for your windows is cleaning the window panes. You will want to clean the interior panes monthly and the exterior panes two or three times per year. Cleaning the panes reduces any buildup from condensation, and it helps you prevent mold or mildew growth. In addition, it helps your window panes and any coatings stay clean and effective.
You will want to use window-safe cleaners, avoiding harmful chemicals. Ensure you never mix cleaning chemicals while maintaining your windows. In addition, use a soft cloth (such as a microfiber cloth) and avoid abrasive cleaning materials. Abrasive materials can scratch your windows and lead to cracking down the line. By routinely cleaning your windows, you help them stay effective and protected.
2. Clean Window Tracks
In addition to cleaning the window panes, you will need to clean your window tracks. The tracks allow your windows to slide open and closed. If these become clogged with dirt, dust, bugs, pet hair, or other debris, your windows will not function properly. Not only can they become difficult to open or close, but you may also develop a draft.
You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris from your window tracks. Follow up with a gentle cleaning solution for scrubbing. You may want to use a soft toothbrush or another brush to loosen any stuck-on debris or buildup for the best clean. Finally, you can use a soft cloth to complete your clean. With your window tracks cleaned, you can look forward to long-lasting function for your windows.
3. Look for Condensation
Besides routinely cleaning your windows, you will also need to look for signs that you have a problem. By identifying these early, you can act quickly and prevent further complications for your home and windows. One of the first signs you should watch for is condensation.
Condensation typically forms with a significant temperature difference inside and outside your windows, as well as with the presence of moisture around your windows. Typically, new windows should be well-insulated and sealed, reducing any condensation buildup. If you start to see condensation, you will want to take steps to mitigate it, whether that’s making sure your windows are closed all the way, repairing the seals, or getting weatherstripping.
4. Watch for Cracks
You will also want to be on the lookout for any cracks developing on your windows. Your window panes may crack, but you may also see that the frame, seal, or track cracks. Any cracking is a serious sign and requires immediate attention to prevent further problems for your windows.
There are some temporary fixes for different types of cracks. For example, you may caulk around the window frame if it is cracked. Or, you may look into glass repair kits. However, the best long-term fix for cracked windows is ultimately replacement.
5. Feel for a Draft
Besides condensation and cracks, you will also want to pay attention to any drafts. A draft from your window indicates that there is a problem with a seal somewhere. This can be as simple as forgetting to lock your window, but it can also indicate that your windows are aging.
If you notice a draft, you will want to take steps to stop it. You can get weatherstripping, draft stoppers, caulking, and other temporary fixes to prevent worsening problems. In the end, you will want to replace your drafty windows so that they don’t lead to excessive condensation, overworking HVAC units, and rising energy bills.
6. Add Weatherstripping or Caulking
Over time, you may notice that your windows are showing the above signs of age. You may see condensation or feel a draft. It’s important that you address these issues right away because they can lead to more complications. A drafty or leaky window is more prone to moisture accumulation, which can lead to mold growth, damage to the window frame, and more problems.
If you notice some of these complications, you may want to invest in weatherstripping, caulk, and draft stoppers. Weatherstripping can seal gaps around the frame and sash, temporarily stopping leaks or drafts. Caulk can also be used around your frame. Finally, draft stoppers can be laid in front of your drafty windows, preventing air exchange. These fixes are considered temporary but can help you prevent complications until you’re ready for window replacement.
7. Plan for Replacement if Necessary
While the goal of window maintenance is to extend the lifespan of your windows, they still can’t last forever. If you start to notice signs of aging, you’ll want to plan ahead for your window replacement. This way, you can prevent any unexpected issues, such as mold growth or poor insulation that will cause you a bigger headache. With new windows, you will be more comfortable and have peace of mind.
How Do You Know When You Need to Replace Your Windows?
Even well-maintained windows don’t last forever. So, how can you tell when it’s time to replace your windows? Below, we have outlined the top five reasons that you may need a window replacement. Learn more here, then keep reading to see how you can get started.
1. Obvious Drafts
Persistent drafts mean that your windows are not sealing correctly. Whether the panes are cracked, the frame is warped, or there is a gap somewhere, you will want to get a professional out to look at your windows.
2. Frequent Condensation
Condensation can be a sign that your windows are not properly insulated or have developed a leak. Unfortunately, this moisture accumulation can lead to more problems. You may develop mold or mildew growth around your windows. To prevent this, you need to plan for window replacement.
3. Visible Damage
If your windows have become damaged, you will need to replace them. Whether broken in a storm, by debris, or from a stray baseball, you want to address your damaged windows right away.
4. Poor Operation
When your windows won’t open or close easily, it may be time for a replacement. Not only can you not enjoy the fresh air, but this may also indicate a problem with the seal or frame.
5. Outdated Appearance
Besides poor function, style is another reason to replace your windows. If you are updating your home or searching for a more modern style, you may consider a window replacement. This lets you improve the appearance, curb appeal, and value of your home.
Time for New Windows? Call Window Expo Cleveland Today!
In review, routine window maintenance helps you extend the lifespan of your new additions. You can routinely clean your window panes and tracks, and you should watch for any drafts, condensation, and cracks. Finally, when you start to notice that your windows are drafty, wet, broken, outdated, or not working correctly, you’ll want to consider a window replacement.
Luckily, you’re in the right place! At Window Expo Cleveland, we offer the highest quality window replacement in the area. We’ll help you choose the best fit for your home, then we’ll install them with ease. Finally, we can walk you through our window maintenance tips so that you understand how to care for your new windows.
Ready to get started with your new windows? Contact our team today!
