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 windows maintenance tips!
Keeping windows clean will increase their longevity. No doubt! Some common tips are basic cleaning, repairing, caulking, and repainting the window frame. 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 Windows 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 piece of soft cloth or squeegee and gently clean the window inside and out to clean the 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 trails, 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 trails.
Scrub with a soft-bristle brush, then wipe off clean the solution with a damp cloth. Make sure the cloth is lint-free, or use alternatives materials like newspaper or 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.
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 window trail has no drainage system? In this case, you can follow the below tips:
- Use a cloth to soak the water from the trails. 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 trail frame to let the water run out.
- Use a wet vacuum cleaner to drain the water from the trail.
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 to and remove the old painting 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 trails. You can follow this tip once a month after 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 damages, like cracks, chips, or mould rot in the window frames and sashes. If you find any, you should consider repairing it 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.
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 windows maintenance tips to keep windows in good condition. By following our tips, you can increase the lifespan of your windows.
The lubrication tip is necessary, as it ensures proper functionality of the window. 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 sit for a few minutes before wiping clean. You can gently wipe scratch over 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.
