The following contribution is from another author.
When you bought your home, you probably didn’t think much about your window upkeep. You dress them with window treatments and clean them occasionally. Apart from that, you might not think much about window maintenance until something goes wrong. Regular maintenance keeps your windows efficient, operating smoothly, and looking as good as they did when they were installed. It also helps your windows to last as long as they can, so you can get the most out of your investment.
Regular window maintenance will ensure that your windows are working properly. Something that seems small, like chipped paint or a stuck sash, can become a big problem if you ignore it. Use these tips to prevent it from happening.
Inspect Your Windows Annually
An annual home check-up is a big part of home maintenance. Every year, examine your windows to find any issues. Check for leaks, cracks, chipped paint, sealant cracks, and issues with sliding sashes or turning window cranks.
Look out for leaks and poor drainage above or around vents and sprinkler systems that could be exposing your windows to water. Check for issues after a big storm. If you find damage, get it repaired or look into new windows here.
Pay Close Attention The Caulking Around Your Windows
The sealant or caulking around your windows is what makes them watertight. If any part of the window is cracked, broken or completely missing, it needs to be fixed. Cracked window sealant can let in water, and even small leaks can cause a lot of damage. Inspect the caulking, especially in the bottom corners and in between windows.
Take Note Of Imperfections In The Wood Finish
Wood windows do have a number of different benefits, but they do require some more maintenance than fiberglass or vinyl windows. The wood finish or paint doesn’t just keep the windows looking good, it also protects the windows from the elements. Ultraviolet rays from the sun can damage the finish and make the protection less effective. This can happen inside the house too.
Carefully inspect both the inside and outside finish for any signs of corrosion, peeling, or cracking. If you need to refinish the wood, contact a professional who knows how to maintain wood windows.
Clean and Lubricate Window Tracks
Clean window tracks matter more than clean glass. Dirt and debris can build up in the window track, making the window prone to sticking. Clean away the dirt on a regular basis to prevent this from happening. Use a dry brush to clean, and keep your windows able to open and close smoothly. Any dirt that you can’t shift with a brush can cleaned with soap and water instead.
Lubrication can also help to keep your windows operating smoothly. Apply some oil-free lubricant to the weatherstripping. You can find suitable options in most home improvement stores. Don’t use an oil-base lubricant to do this. These lubricants can attract dust and dirt, which is the opposite of what you want, as it will clog up the window tracks.
Check The Window Fit
The longer you have had your windows, the more likely it is that they don’t fit as well as they did when they were first installed in the house. Being exposed to the elements, changing temperatures, and general wear and tear from everyday use can all cause some subtle changes to the shape and size of your windows and window frames. Homes will settle a bit over the years, which can also cause some problems with the way your windows fit, even if they were an ideal fit to start with.
A badly fitting window won’t perform well. Your window will be less energy-efficient and will let air and water in. Check over your windows carefully to see if they still fit correctly. If you can’t open or close the window all the way, it won’t lock properly, or it has moisture somewhere, this suggests an issue with the fit.
Take Extra Precautions If You Live Near The Sea
Salt spray can be very corrosive to a lot of materials, including wood, fiberglass and vinyl. If your home is near the ocean, you will see more wear and tear on your windows. You will need to inspect your windows more often than once a year to keep an eye out for any damage.
You should also clean your windows at least four times a year to get rid of the build-up of corrosive salt. Use a mild detergent and water to clean away salt and keep your windows sparkling.
