Spring is a great time to take care of your windows. Not only will it restore your windows to their original beauty, but spring window maintenance can help you get ahead of any repairs, save money on energy costs and make your home more comfortable all year long.
Here are some reasons why spring window maintenance is important:
- It helps prevent costly repairs in the future by identifying potential problems early on.
- You’ll get a better understanding of how well your windows are functioning, which will help you decide whether or not they need replacing or repairing.
- You’ll be able to see if there are any leaks around the frames or seals that need fixing before costly water damage happens and/or the risk of mold.
Cleaning Your Windows
Cleaning your windows is a great way to showcase the natural light in your home and restore your windows to their original beauty. Before you begin, make sure that you have all of the materials needed for cleaning windows:
- A bucket or large bowl filled with warm water and mild soap. We recommend a simple mix of 1/3 cup liquid dish soap and 2 gallons of hot water.
- A few microfiber cloths (one per window) and a bucket of clean water for rinsing them out after each use
Once you’ve gathered all of these items, follow these steps:- Begin by using a cloth and your cleaning solution to wipe your window’s interior and exterior frames and hardware. Doing this first ensures no dirt will wash onto your window glass. Wipe dry when finished.
- With a fresh cloth, apply the cleaning soap solution to your window’s glass; both the interior and exterior panels. Starting from the top of one sash and working your way down, wipe the windows to remove dirt.
- Finally, with a fresh cloth, dry the entire window.
Watch our Window Cleaning Video
Inspecting Your Windows
The best way to maintain your windows is by regularly inspecting them. This will help you identify any problems as they arise and address them before they become more serious. Here are some common problems to look out for:
- Cracks or gaps: Check for any cracks or gaps in the window frames or glass. These can lead to drafts and energy loss, as well as water damage.
- Damage or wear: Check for any signs of damage or wear, such as peeling paint, broken hardware, or warped frames.
- Functionality: Test the functionality of the windows by opening and closing them. Make sure they operate smoothly and lock securely.
- Noise and light infiltration: Pay attention to any excess noise or light coming through the windows. This can indicate issues with insulation or the window’s seal.
- Energy efficiency: Consider the age and type of your windows. If they are old or single-paned, they may not be as energy-efficient as newer, double-paned windows.
Caulking Your Windows
Caulking your windows is the most important step in window maintenance. Caulking is the process of filling cracks and gaps with a sealant. This can be done by a professional, but it’s also possible for homeowners who are comfortable with DIY projects to do it themselves, and there are many benefits to doing so.
Caulking is essential because it helps keep out moisture that could otherwise cause damage to your home’s structure or interior furnishings. Moisture buildup can lead to mold growth on walls or ceilings; this mold may cause respiratory issues like allergies or asthma attacks if inhaled over time (especially if you have small children). Filling any cracks will also prevent insects from entering your home. Finally, caulking helps keep drafts at bay during cold weather months when heating systems aren’t running full blast 24/7.
DIY Repairs
While most window repairs should be completed by a professional, some are easily completed by a confident DIYer. Here are a few window repairs you may consider doing yourself.
- Replacing faulty hardware: Hardware can wear and become damaged over time but replacing it is relatively easy.
- Replacing weatherstripping: Over the years, weatherstripping can break down. To prevent drafts and ensure a tight seal on your window, you’ll want to replace it if it’s in poor condition. Weatherstripping is an inexpensive product that is readily available. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to replace it.
- Repairing screens: If you have screens, make sure they’re kept clean and free from holes or tears by checking them for damage regularly and repairing them as needed (or replacing them altogether if they’re beyond repair). Screen kits can be purchased at any hardware store and are easy to use.
- Sealing cracks: As mentioned above, caulking and cracks around your windows should be repaired immediately! This is a simple DIY project that you can perform with little cost. Window caulking and sealants are readily available at any hardware store.
Call the Professionals
Some window maintenance is easily done by the homeowner and some should be left to the professionals. If you discover serious issues with your windows like bowing frames, broken glass, or damaged glass seals, you’ll want to reach out to a professional.
As you can see, window maintenance is a necessary part of the home-owning experience. It’s important to keep your windows clean and functioning properly in order to prevent damage, mold growth, and other problems that can occur if you don’t maintain them regularly. Take care of your window investment and good quality windows will last for many years.
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