February 14, 2023
Window Maintenance: 6 Best Tips & Tricks For Your Home
When it comes to keeping your home in tip-top shape, it's easy to focus on the obvious areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and living room. But what about those often overlooked spots, like windows?
Window maintenance may not be the most exciting task on your to-do list, but it's an important one. Not only do clean, well-maintained windows enhance the look of your home, but they also improve energy efficiency and can even extend the life of your windows.
So, how do you keep your windows looking as good as new?
1. Keep them clean
This may seem like a no-brainer, but regularly cleaning your windows is crucial for maintaining their appearance and functionality. Start by dusting off the window sills and frames to remove any dirt or cobwebs. Then, mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water and use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the glass. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean, lint-free cloth to avoid streaks.
For really stubborn grime, you can use a scraper or blade to gently scrape off any buildup. Just be sure to use a light touch and take care not to scratch the glass.
2. Fix any damage
Over time, windows can suffer from wear and tear, such as cracks, chips, or loose seals. It's important to address these issues as soon as you notice them to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.
For small cracks or chips, you can use a window repair kit to fill in the damage. These kits typically come with a resin or epoxy that you can use to fill in the damage, and then sand and paint to match the rest of the window.
If you have a loose seal, you can try to fix it yourself by applying a new layer of sealant around the edges of the window. If you're not comfortable doing this or the sealant doesn't hold, it's best to call a professional to fix it for you.
3. Protect them from the elements
Your windows are constantly exposed to the elements, which can take a toll on their appearance and functionality. To protect your windows, consider installing window awnings or film. Awnings can provide shade and shelter from the sun and rain, while the film can block harmful UV rays and reduce heat transfer.
You can also protect your windows from extreme weather by installing storm windows or shutters. Storm windows are an extra layer of protection that can be added to the outside of your windows, while shutters can be used to cover the windows from the inside during storms.
4. Keep the tracks clean
In addition to the window itself, it's also important to keep the tracks and hardware clean and well-maintained. Dust and debris can build up in the tracks over time, which can cause the window to stick or not open and close smoothly.
To clean the tracks, use a vacuum or a small brush to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the tracks with warm, soapy water. Be sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent rust or corrosion.
If the tracks are really dirty or stuck, you may need to use a more heavy-duty cleaner or a blade to scrape off any buildup. Just be careful not to damage the tracks or the window itself.
5. Check for drafts
Over time, windows can become drafty due to worn seals or other damage. This not only makes your home less energy efficient, but it can also make it feel colder in the winter and warmer in the summer.
To check for drafts, close all the doors and windows in your home and turn off any fans or appliances that could affect the airflow. Then, hold a lit candle or incense stick near the edges of the window and see if the flame or smoke flickers or blows in any particular direction. If it does, you may have a draft.
To fix a draft, you can try adding weatherstripping around the edges of the window or applying a sealant to the gaps. If these solutions don't work or you're not comfortable doing it yourself, it's best to call a professional to fix the problem.
6. Consider energy-efficient options
If your windows are old or damaged beyond repair, it may be time to consider replacing them with more energy-efficient options. There are many options to choose from, including double- or triple-paned windows, low-emissivity (low-e) coatings, and gas fills.
Double- or triple-pane windows have an extra layer of glass, which helps to insulate your home and reduce heat transfer. Low-e coatings are thin layers of material that are applied to the surface of the glass to reflect heat and reduce UV radiation. Gas fills are spaces between the panes of glass that are filled with a special gas, such as argon or krypton, which helps to insulate your home.
By choosing energy-efficient windows, you can save money on your energy bills and make your home more comfortable year-round.
Message or call our experts at 920-347-5830 with any questions on hiring professionals for your home renovation or rebuilding!
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Maintaining your windows may not be the most glamorous task, but it's an important one that will keep them looking and functioning as good as new. By regularly cleaning, fixing any damage, and protecting them from the elements, you can enjoy the benefits of clean, energy-efficient windows for years to come. The experts at DeLeers are here to help you with any and all of your window needs! Contact us today.
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