How to Maintain Your Windows?
Good window maintenance is a key part of responsible homeownership. There are several things you should do throughout the year to ensure your windows are in top condition. Here are our 5 tips for maintaining replacement windows.
Check your windows regularly
Performing regular window inspections is probably the easiest and most important thing you can do on this list, which is why we're starting with it. By thoroughly inspecting any signs of degradation or damage, you can fix problems or replace windows before they start affecting your home.
Look for gaps or cracks between walls and window frames. Check for cracks in the rubber seal holding the window glass in place. Look for signs of moisture or condensation between window panes. If it does, it probably means your seal is damaged. If necessary, ask professionals to replace the rubber sealing ring. Check all locks and latches to make sure they're still working properly -- not just a window performance issue, but a home security issue as well.
Glass windows are cleaned twice a year
If cleaning windows may not be your top priority when it comes to home cleaning, you may want to reconsider. Maintain your glass windows by cleaning them at least a few times a year. Not only can dirt and debris build up on your windows restricting natural light from entering your home -- an important contributor to people's overall mental health -- but over time, dirt can actually damage your windows. Not to mention that the longer you leave it, the harder it will be to clean up the line.
Using the right cleaning products is just as important when it comes to giving your windows the sheen they deserve. Neither glass nor vinyl windows require heavy cleaning materials of any kind. Contrary to what you might think, strong and abrasive solutions can actually do serious damage to the quality of the glass and its frame. Just mix dish soap with lukewarm water and a microfiber cloth to get the job done. Instead, you can also use vinyl window cleaners that double as cleaners and protectors, as many of them provide UV protection for your windows.
You might be tempted to use your favorite high-pressure power washer to remove stubborn dirt, but we don't recommend it. An electric washer can weaken the window seal, causing the damage you were trying to prevent in the first place.
If you do, you clean your windows and notice moisture leaks, which means your seals are broken and it's time to replace your windows.
Clean and lubricate rails
It is usually a good practice to regularly clean and lubricates the tracks of your windows. Lubricating moving parts and any components of the track will ensure your windows continue to open and close with ease.
Most hardware stores carry a general-purpose, non-detergent lubricant that is ideal for this purpose. You can also use simple water and mild soap solution. Before cleaning, use a soft brush attachment to thoroughly remove any dirt and dust from the tracks, as well as the sills and frames. Any dust buildup could be what caused your windows to stick in the first place.
It's a good idea to apply lube once in the spring, as all these times of the year can make windows start to feel tight or stiff.
Invest in storm windows
Installing some storm windows is a great way to maintain your current windows or protect your new Toronto replacement windows from seasonal wear and tear. They are usually installed on the outside to protect your regular windows from damage caused by weather and natural elements. They can be an especially good idea if you live in a storm-prone area.
Storm windows can be made of glass, flexible plastic sheets, or hard plastic panels and can be installed temporarily or permanently depending on your preference.
In addition to maintaining your windows, they can add extra protection, sound insulation, and thermal insulation.
Insulate your windows in winter
Adding extra insulation to your home's windows helps protect their weatherstrips and weatherstrips in unusually cold temperatures. You can do this in a number of ways. We've already mentioned installing storm windows to protect your windows from bad weather, but did you know they can reduce heat loss by up to 50%? Additionally, you can install insulating window treatments or line your windows with actual insulation. It blocks light in winter but helps protect window seals and frames.
However, these are only short-term solutions to larger problems. If you find that your electricity bill has suddenly skyrocketed and you're insulating your windows because they're letting cold air into your home, you'll need to replace your windows.
It's important to remember that even if you regularly complete all the items on this list, Windows will eventually degrade from age. There is only so much you can do to maintain the glass windows in your home before replacing them. If you need to replace the new windows, please contact us.
ROPO is a professional custom door and window manufacturer with 16 years of experience. ROPO has produced various uPVC doors and windows and aluminum doors and windows for more than 25 countries and regions in Europe and America. The main products are made of uPVC and aluminum. Our products are very suitable for our different customers. We are constantly seeking to understand the needs of different clients. We use this knowledge to continuously create products to meet these needs. We always make sure to provide consumers with these products at the right price.
