Are you tired of spending money on repairing your home windows damaged by water and dust? Luckily, you can reduce this extra expense with some simple window maintenance tips!
Keeping windows clean will increase their longevity. Some common tips include basic cleaning, repairs, caulking, and repainting the window frame. For a complete routine, follow our detailed guide on how to clean windows step by step.
Besides these, you need to ensure proper drainage to prevent water buildup and moisture damage.
Let’s get into the tips and see how you should keep them like the first day you bought them.
7 Window Maintenance Tips to Preserve Window Quality for Years
Keeping your windows clean without proper maintenance can be too challenging, as they are exposed to dirt and dust.
Here are some simple tips that you can follow to stimulate your home’s window maintenance:
1. Clean Daily
Does regular cleaning indicate that you have to use soap or vinegar water for a thorough cleaning? No, it doesn’t!
Take a soft cloth or a squeegee and gently wipe the window inside and out to remove dust daily.But what if you can’t access the outer side of the window?
Then, you can use a magnetic squeezer to clean both sides of the window from the inside.
2. Weekly and Monthly Window Cleaning
You can establish a window cleaning routine to simplify the window maintenance process. For instance, if you wipe the window glass daily, select a day once a week to clean the sills and frames.
On the other hand, monthly cleaning refers to thoroughly cleaning the entire window. You can either use a store-bought or DIY solution. But how do you make a DIY cleaning solution?
Mix 1/3 cup white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water to make a window-cleaning solution at home. Spray all over the window, including the frame, glass, and sills.
Scrub with a soft-bristle brush, then wipe off the solution with a damp cloth. Make sure the cloth is lint-free, or use alternative materials like newspaper or a squeegee.
3. Proper Drainage
This is one crucial tip for maintaining your home windows.
Dirt and dust can clog the drainage system after coming into contact with water, damaging the window frame due to moisture. Understanding how weather affects window longevity can help homeowners take preventive maintenance steps early.
That’s why you need to maintain proper drainage after cleaning windows or during rainy weather. Take a small wire or brush and clean the drainage hole to get rid of dust accumulation.
But what if your windowsill has no drainage system? In this case, you can follow the tips:
- Use a cloth to soak up water from the tracks. You may need to continue this step multiple times to get rid of the moisture. If possible, use a piece of blanket to soak up more water at once.
- Consider drilling a very small (1/4-inch) drainage hole near the bottom outer edge of the track frame to let the water drain out.
- Use a wet vacuum cleaner to remove water from the track.
4. Window Frame Maintenance
If your window frame is made of wood, wouldn’t the water damage the frame? Yes, it can! That’s why frame maintenance is a must, especially if it’s made of wood.
Caulk around the window frames to prevent air leaks and water damage. Moreover, make sure the paint on the frame is still intact, as the paint can also prevent water damage.
If the painting is peeling, you should consider repainting. First, sand the frame and remove the old paint coat. Then, apply a fresh coat of paint to the frame and follow up with a protective sealant.
You may need to repaint the frame every few years to prevent warping, rotting, and moisture damage.
5. Lubricate Moving Parts
After you clean your window, lubricate the moving parts, such as hinges, locks, and tracks. You can follow this tip once a month after a thorough cleaning. It’ll keep your window functioning smoothly and prevent friction and wear in the long run!
6. Inspect and Repair Accordingly
Check your windows for any damage, such as cracks, chips, or mould rot in the window frames and sashes. If damage is severe, knowing how to measure windows for replacement helps ensure a proper fit when upgrading. If you find any, you should consider repairing them as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.
The weatherstripping should be in good condition to prevent water and dust from passing through the track and gaps. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s guide to energy-efficient windows, proper sealing and maintenance play a key role in preventing air and moisture leakage over time.
7. Maintain the Window Screen
In the spring and summer months, open windows become an invitation for unwanted flying insects to enter your home. Window screens act as a barrier against these insects, but the mesh can develop dust and dirt over the seasons.
Whether you find splits or punctures in the screening or the frame has bowed from years of use, you need to consider replacing it.
For minor screen damage, use a screen repair patch or adhesive to cover the tear. In case you need an entire replacement, buy a new screen from the hardware store and reinstall it.
Conclusion
So, you now know some effective window maintenance tips to keep windows in good condition. By following our tips, you can increase the lifespan of your windows. When maintenance is no longer enough, learning how to choose the right windows and doors ensures a smarter long-term investment.
Lubrication is essential, as it helps keep windows functioning smoothly. Clean and functional windows not only prevent dust and water from passing through, but also make your home look more appealing!
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding window maintenance:
Q: What’s the best way to lubricate window tracks and locks?
Graphite or silicone spray is ideal for lubricating tracks, locks, and hinges. Apply a light coating as needed to keep parts moving smoothly.
Q: When should I caulk around windows?
Inspect caulking once a year and reapply as cracks or gaps appear. Fall is a good time before wet weather to prevent drafts and water damage.
Q: How do I remove hard water stains on windows?
Apply the vinegar solution to stained areas and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean. You can gently wipe the stain with a cloth. The acid in vinegar can help remove mineral deposits.
Q: What’s the best way to clean window screens?
Spray screens lightly with a hose or clean them with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Rinse and let dry completely before putting the screens back in place.
Q: Can I use a pressure washer to clean windows?
It’s not recommended to use a pressure washer on windows, as the high pressure can damage seals, break glass, or force water into the frame, leading to leaks.
