Have you just installed new windows? Or maybe you want to take better care of the old ones to prolong their lifespan. Either way, you’re probably reading this article because you want to learn everything about window maintenance, right?
Inspecting and maintaining your windows is, in fact, the best way to make sure they perform at their best for as long as expected (or even longer!). Plus, it saves you the money you’d otherwise spend on repairs and high energy bills. In short, a win-win!
So, what exactly does proper window maintenance entail? Below, we’ve added the most important things to add to your to-do list, so keep reading!
Key Takeaways
- Regularly clean and maintain both interior and exterior window surfaces. Vacuum and clean them using a mix of water and soap, then lubricate the tracks and hardware. Replace caulking and weatherstripping every few years or whenever you notice drafts to maintain energy efficiency.
- Inspect window frames, seals, and tracks regularly. This will help you identify any issues early, avoid expensive repairs, and prolong your windows’ lifespan. If you notice any damages, repair them as soon as possible.
- Clean your window screens regularly and repair or replace them if you notice any damage.
- Consider replacing windows if their seal is broken, if the frames are rotten or severely damaged, or if you notice severe water leakage that has caused mold growth around them.
1. Clean Your Windows Regularly
As simple as that – clean your windows. This is absolutely the best thing you can do for your windows. If there’s dirt and debris buildup, they’ll stop functioning properly over time.
You can clean interior window panes every two weeks or monthly – natural light will flood your home if the glass is sparkling clean! The exterior glass pane should be cleaned every few months if you live in a harsh environment. If you have time and if it gets dirty, you can clean it more often. Just make sure you’re following all safety guidelines if they’re hard to reach.
Use mild soap and water or a gentle glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth for a spotless finish. You can also use white vinegar to clean your windows. Don’t forget to avoid rough sponges that can scratch the glass and lead to costly repairs. If you’re cleaning exterior windows that are hard to reach, you’ll need additional tools, like a U-shaped cleaning tool or a telescopic pole.
Next, let’s move to the window frame, as there are some important things to consider before cleaning it.
2. Inspect and Maintain The Window Frames
Window frames are just as important as the glass. First things first – you should inspect them regularly for signs of damage or wear even if it’s not time for a cleaning routine yet. Secondly, you need to learn everything about the material of your window frames because the maintenance routine is different for each. Here are some window maintenance tips for:
- Aluminum windows. Don’t use abrasive cleaners or solvents to clean aluminum windows. It’s best to check the cleaning solution label to see if it’s safe for aluminum windows. You may also need to use fine-gauge steel wool to clean stubborn spots or corrosion if you live in regions with high humidity. Once the frame is clean, you can apply an aluminum primer and paint it to protect it from damage.
- Wooden windows. It is recommended to repaint wooden windows every 5 years. This will guarantee their durability and resistance against rot and mold. However, if you notice chipping paint in the meantime, repaint the frames as soon as possible.
- Vinyl windows. Vinyl frames can be cleaned with warm water and soap. It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the frame. You will probably need to clean the interior vinyl frames less frequently than the exterior ones.
3. Keep Window Tracks and Hardware Clean and Lubricated
Window tracks and hardware play an important role in the smooth operation of your windows. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, and the windows won’t open and close properly. If not cleaned regularly, the accumulation of dirt can actually cause the hardware to break beyond repair.
First, use a bristle brush to dislodge dirt from the tracks and anywhere around the hardware. Then, vacuum along the window tracks. You can also use a soft brush attachment, it will really help with removing the hidden debris.
The last step before lubricating is cleaning the tracks and the hardware using a commercial cleaning solution. You can also mix warm water and soap, it will work just fine. Plus, vinegar or baking soda can help with stubborn spots. Finally, wipe everything down with a microfiber cloth.
Now, the lubrication, which is of the essence. You can use a silicone-based lubricant as it’s the most efficient for window tracks and hardware.
You can clean the tracks and hardware every few months and lubricate them twice a year. These steps can be followed for both windows and doors with tracks.
4. Check for Drafts and Seal Any Gaps
When inspecting your windows, always check for drafts around them. You may not feel air coming through them at first, but there may be tiny cracks that can eventually cause major issues. Leaving these gaps unattended can lead to high energy bills and moisture build-up, which, in turn, may cause mold and structural damage.
You can look thoroughly around the windows to check for gaps and cracks. You can also use an incense stick. Found any? No need to worry! You can seal the gaps with caulking. It may also be a good idea to replace the weatherstripping if you haven’t done it in a while.
Weatherstripping is applied only to movable parts. It can prevent air and moisture from entering your home, which reduces drafts and energy loss. Unlike weather stripping, caulking is only for fixed window parts. Don’t apply it on movable parts because you won’t be able to open your windows anymore. Caulking is excellent for covering small cracks and gaps. Before applying it, clean and dry the area thoroughly and remove any old caulk.
5. Repair Any Damages Promptly
Have you noticed any damages while inspecting your windows? Repair window damage as soon as possible. You may still be able to save your windows if:
- The glass is broken.
- The hardware is worn out.
- The locks are broken.
- The tracks are dented.
- The crank mechanism is broken.
- You notice cracked window sealing.
You can easily solve some of these issues yourself, like replacing the lock or the crank mechanism. For others, you’ll have to contact a professional.
Nonetheless, other issues may be beyond repair. This includes rotten window frames, broken seals (which can lead to condensation between panes), warped frames, structural problems, and mold issues. Either way, if you’re unsure whether repairs are possible, you can contact an expert who will examine your windows in depth.
6. Maintain Your Window Screens
Don’t forget about the window screens! While they’re not linked to your windows’ performance, they contribute to your comfort and health. If not cleaned regularly, window screens can negatively affect indoor air quality. Plus, your windows will get dirty more easily if the screens are dusty.
You can clean the window screens a few times a year, depending on the weather conditions in your region.
Remove them from the window and lay them on a flat surface. Vacuum them briefly to remove any dust, it will facilitate the process. Then, use a solution of dish soap and warm water to scrub away dirt and pollen.
After cleaning them, inspect the screens for any holes or damage that may need repairing. You can definitely fix a few tiny gaps. If you notice any severe damage, it’s probably just easier to replace the screens altogether. If you have Magic screens, for example, you can simply ship the cartridge to us, and we’ll send a replacement.
7. Dust and Clean Condensation Regularly
If you live in a region with high humidity, make sure to dust your windows regularly. Otherwise, you risk having mold growing on and around them. In addition, if your indoor humidity levels are usually high, you may notice condensation on the interior glass surface. In this case, wipe the glass down to remove moisture as soon as you notice condensation forming. Otherwise, the moisture can damage your windows and cause mold issues.
You can use a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity. Besides this, avoid drying your clothes in the house, cover the pots when cooking, and ventilate the house frequently, especially when cooking and after showering.
Is It Time To Replace Your Windows? Contact Magic!
If you think your windows are beyond repair or if they’re quite old already, it may be worth considering replacing them. New windows won’t only lower your energy bills and make you feel more comfortable in your own house – they’ll also significantly enhance curb appeal and increase property value! And why not take advantage of this opportunity and get the very best windows in the GTA?
Magic windows stand out in the industry thanks to their innovative, technologically advanced hardware, opening mechanisms, and frame materials. They’re incredibly energy-efficient and durable. Our windows remain at peak performance for up to 40 years with a regular window maintenance routine. Curious to discover more Magic features? Book a free consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What maintenance do windows need?
Windows need to be cleaned regularly. They also need to have their tracks and hardware lubricated at least once a year. If the windows have wooden frames, they need to be repainted every five years. Additionally, if you notice cracks and gaps, you may have to replace weather stripping and caulking. Additionally, make sure to inspect the windows once in a while to catch any issues early.
How often should I caulk my windows?
Generally, window caulking should be replaced every 5-10 years, but this depends on how often you open your windows, the weather conditions in your region, and the caulk quality. Just check the caulking regularly, and if you notice it’s cracked, replace it.
How often should you lubricate windows?
You should lubricate windows at least once a year. You can use a silicone based lubricant to do so. Before applying it, clean everything thoroughly to remove any dirt and debris.
How do you maintain double-pane windows?
The window maintenance routine for double-pane windows is the same as for any other windows. One thing you’ll have to pay close attention to is whether there’s condensation between the glass panes. This may indicate that the seal is broken.