In the UK, replacing the windows in your house can add thousands of pounds to the value of your home and has a return on investment of over 70%. Not only does this investment increase your property value, but it can also save you money on your energy costs.
Still, window replacement can be a big investment for homeowners. To get the most out of your investment, you need to learn how to properly care for your windows. Proper window care can improve the air quality in your home, improve window efficiency, and even increase the lifespan of your windows.
Do you want to learn more about window maintenance and how you can keep your windows in pristine condition? Keep reading this guide for everything you need to know about window maintenance tips, window care, and more.
Regularly Clean the Glass
One of the most important parts of window maintenance is cleaning the glass regularly. This can be done with a simple solution of water and vinegar or you can use a store-bought glass cleaner.
Using enough cleaner will help you break down the film of dirt on your windows and can help you avoid unsightly streaks on the windows!
Cleaning your windows will not only improve the appearance of your home but also provides many other benefits. Clean windows are better for your indoor air quality. They can also prevent window damage, which will keep your windows working as efficiently as possible.
It is best to clean your windows at least every other month to keep them working properly. You should also avoid using any types of abrasive cleaning products that can scratch your window panes.
Don’t Forget the Screens
Another important part of window maintenance is cleaning your window screens. Often, dirty screens are what make windows look dirty, as they can collect dirt, pollen, and other contaminants from the outside.
When you clean your screens, it will help you prevent these contaminants from getting into your home when you open your windows.
To clean your screens, you should first remove them from your window. You can use a simple solution of soap and water to remove the dirt and debris from the screens. Once you have finished scrubbing the contaminants from the mesh screen, you can rinse the screens with a hose, allow them to dry completely, and replace them.
Be careful not to wash your screens too aggressively, as this can damage the screen and may result in holes or screens that are bent out of shape.
Inspect the Window Panes
While you are cleaning your windows, you should inspect them for any type of damage. This essential step of window maintenance can help you avoid more serious problems with your windows in the future.
First, you should inspect your window panes. You must look for signs of condensation between your panes of glass, as this may point to an issue with your window seals.
When you have moisture caught between your glass, it also affects the insulating properties of your window and can lower your energy efficiency.
Inspect the Casing, Caulking, and Seals
Next, you should inspect the casing, caulking, and seals of your window.
The casing of your window is the moulding or trim around your window. Not only does it make your window more decorative and visually appealing, but it is also functional. It is used to cover the space between the frame of your window and the drywall.
This casing can quickly get covered in dirt and debris, so you should inspect and clean your window casings. Check for dirt, cobwebs, and staining around your window! During this process, make sure you don’t use any abrasive cleaning materials that could scratch the casing.
The caulking and seals also need to be inspected regularly. These help your windows look finished and will also keep out leaks and drafts from your window. Make sure you examine each of these areas for gaps or cracks.
Over time, the caulking and seals can wear down and may begin to crack, which can make your windows less efficient. Plus, it makes it easier for pests to get into your home. Even if you don’t see any gaps in your caulking or seals, you may notice that your home feels drafty.
In this case, you should reseal your windows and use caulk to repair any gaps or cracks along the edges of your windows. Inspecting and repairing the seals around your window will keep hot air out of your home in the summer and will keep cold air out of your home in the winter.
Clean the Window Sashes and Tracks
Window sashes and tracks are important components of windows that allow them to open and close smoothly. However, these areas are the perfect place for dirt, debris, and even dead bugs to accumulate over time.
Not only will this make your windows look dirtier, but it can also make it more difficult to use your windows. The debris can lead to a jammed window that gets stuck when you try to open and close it.
Using a soft cloth to clean these areas will make it simple to remove dirt and grime that has built up on your window sashes and tracks and will help you improve your window’s function.
If your windows are still getting stuck after cleaning the window tracks and sashes, you can use some type of lubricant to make it easier for the windows to open and close.
Maintain the Window Hardware
Maintaining the window hardware is another important step of your window maintenance that will keep your windows operating smoothly. If there are any clasps or locks on your windows, you need to clean these regularly!
This will help you prevent jammed windows and can keep your windows in good working condition for longer.
When you maintain the window hardware, you can use a simple household cleaner to remove any grime. Then, you can use a bit of polish to keep the parts lubricated and to allow them to work smoothly.
While you inspect your window hardware, you may also need to tighten screws and bolts around your window to keep them working properly.
Repair Window Damage Immediately
If you notice any damage to your windows during your window maintenance and inspection, you must repair this damage immediately. This is because damage to your windows can get worse over time.
Whether you have cracks in your window panes or issues with the window seals, getting them repaired immediately can save you money in the long run!
Plus, many issues with windows can be fixed with a simple repair rather than a complete window replacement. You can work with a window company to learn more about your options for window repair or window replacement!
Hire a Professional Window Maintenance Company
Finally, you should consider working with a professional window maintenance company. Even when you follow all of these window maintenance tips, you can experience issues with your windows.
A professional company can provide you with a window inspection and can help you resolve any of the problems you have with your windows. They can also help you learn more about window maintenance steps to follow in the future to keep your windows in great condition.
Professional window companies can also help you with everything from window repair to window replacement. This way, you will have a single company that you can turn to for all of your window needs.
When you work with a professional window company like Apex Windows, they can help you find the best windows to fit your budget and can teach you everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining your new windows. This will ensure that your windows and doors are always in great condition and will last for as long as possible.
Need Help With Window Care? Find a Window Replacement Company Today
Having clean windows is a necessary part of home maintenance that can keep your windows working as efficiently as possible. By following each of these window maintenance tips, you can keep your windows in perfect condition for years to come.
If you need help with window care or window replacement, Apex Windows can help! We offer window installation services and can help you find the right windows for your home.
Contact us today to get a free quote for our windows and to learn more about proper window care.