Our Window Maintenance Checklist includes the vital steps to ensure the ongoing durability and functionality of your home windows. You may not realize it, but the windows in your home represent a large portion of your investment. Following our window maintenance checklist at least once a year can protect this investment and preserve the value of your property. Taking the proper steps to protect your windows and their frames will undoubtedly extend their lifespan.
Window Maintenance Checklist
Clean the Frames: Cleaning the window frames periodically, both inside and out, does more than simply keeping your windows looking new and fresh. A thorough cleaning will also unveil any damage such as cracks in the caulking or hidden glazing issues. Cleaning the window frames can also prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Caulking: Speaking of caulking, now that your windows are clean, it’s a good time to repair or replace any defective caulking. Take a close look for any cracks or crevices that could be a source for water intrusion. Caulk the perimeter of the window frame where it meets the siding. This could be a source for heat loss in the winter. This is also a good time to replace any damaged weather stripping.
Cleaning the Window Film: If your windows are covered in a Low-E window film, extra caution is needed when cleaning the glass to avoid damage to the film itself. Improper cleaning methods can degrade the film and reduce or eliminate its energy benefits. Be sure to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer of the film.
Glass Replacement: Inspect all glass panels for cracks. You may be unaware of a broken pane of glass which may have been damaged in a storm or a rogue baseball. Replace broken panels right away. If the cracked glass happens to be double or triple layered insulated glass, the insulating gas would have escaped and the window will no longer offer its intended insulation value. Even a small hole or crack will allow the gas to escape, and drive up the cost of your monthly energy bill.
Clean the Window Tracks: Gunk and debris can build up on window tracks over time. This can make it difficult to open and close the windows. Thoroughly clean the tracks with water and a mild soap. If the track happens to be covered in mold, a concoction of baking soda and vinegar will work like magic.
Don’t Forget the Screens
Repair Your Screens: Window screens are often ignored on the average window maintenance checklist. I suppose it’s because they are technically not a window. They do serve a purpose however and should be included on every window maintenance checklist.
Stating the obvious here, you need to repair or replace any screens that have tears or small holes, which would otherwise allow pests to enter your home. Take a close look at the spline that holds the screen in place. In many cases, you can simply push the spline back in place with a blunt putty knife. I usually clean my screens with a garden hose, just make sure they are completely dry before reinserting them into the window frames.
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Need a window inspection or assistance with any item on your window maintenance checklist? Contact our support team at (815)-634-8922.
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