You want to keep your windows looking bright and beautiful, but what if you aren’t sure what window maintenance you should do? Don’t worry; you are not alone.
Window maintenance is more than wiping down the glass once in a while. But there are some simple steps you can take to make sure your windows stay stunning for years. Here are some tips you can take advantage of.
Inspect
One of the best things you can do to take care of the windows in your home is to perform an annual inspection of the entire windows from both the inside and outside of the window.
When you inspect your windows, look for cracks in the glass or frame materials and cracks or chips in the sealant or caulking. Check the fit of the window and the function of any moving parts of the windows, such as a crank, lock, hinge, or sliding track. We’ll get more specific about each window part later in this article.
You also want to check to ensure that your windows are not damaged by water. Storms can wreak havoc on windows and the materials they are made of.
They can also be damaged if water is not properly draining away from your home. Sprinklers can often be directed at windows without meaning to, and the consistent water sprayed on windows can cause severe damage.
Some climates may warrant inspections more often. For instance, if you live near the ocean, there is a good chance that the seawater and wind can corrode parts of your windows faster than in other arid areas.
Glass
Look over the entire pane of glass in each window for any cracks, chips, or other damage. Depending on the type of glass used in your windows, you may see the Low-e film peeling or cracking, bubbles or condensation inside of the layers of double pane glass, or the glass bowing at the edges.
Any areas needing repair should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage that may cost you even more time and money. If the glass is beyond repair, it is essential to replace it and possibly consider replacing the entire window if necessary. If you have an older home, it may be advantageous to look into upgrading to triple pane windows or other more modern materials.
Of course, it is also important to clean your windows. Dirt and grime can collect on the glass and in the nooks and crannies around it. Cleaning the windows’ inside and outside surfaces can prevent damage and keep normal wear and tear to a minimum.
Frames
Windows are ineffective without proper window frames, so part of window maintenance is taking care of the window frames and the glass inside them. This includes the four sides of the frame as well as the sash if a window slides to open.
Making sure window frames are properly installed and sealed is essential, not only for the function and security of the window but also for your home’s energy efficiency. Up to 30 percent of heating and cooling costs come from heat flow through the windows of a home.
If any of the pieces of your window are damaged, loose, or missing, the security and function of your window are at risk. A loose window jam or cracked window sill may seem like a problem that can wait a while to address, but that quick repair may turn into a much larger project if the rest of the window’s structure is compromised.
The last thing you want to look for while inspecting your windows is to ensure watertight sealant and caulking around each window. If your window is not sealed correctly, water can get inside your home and cause significant damage. Even a tiny leak can lead to mold and water damage that can endanger your home and loved ones.
Tracks
If your window tends to get stuck as you are opening or closing it, there is a chance the track needs a good cleaning. When dirt, dust, and other debris find their way into the grooves and tiny spaces of the track, it is much more challenging to slide the window through the track.
A good cleaning can usually resolve this issue, but you may also need to apply a lubricant to allow the window to slide back and forth without catching. If you still notice the window getting stuck after cleaning and lubricating the track, you will want to ensure nothing has been warped or damaged by water.
Screens
Window screens are great for safely opening your window without bugs or other gunk from getting in your house, but they are prone to wear and tear over time. As part of your annual inspection, look over the screen to make sure it fits the frame and window securely.
Any windows that face the sun for most of the day will probably experience some damage from UV rays. As the sun shines on the screen, the UV rays can actually weaken the screen and cause warping or weakening of the mesh and frame.
Similarly, very cold weather can also damage window screens. Freezing temperatures can make the screen materials more brittle and prone to breaking. Make sure to replace screens that are loose or broken as soon as you notice the problem.
Northern Utah Glass
Even with the best window maintenance and care, you might need to replace your home’s windows. Whether you are looking to fix a damaged window or are interested in upgrading your windows, Northern Utah Glass has the products and services you need.
The experts at Northern Utah Glass are committed to providing quality glass repair and installation services for residential and commercial properties. We serve Salt Lake, Weber, and David Counties in Utah with professionalism and customer satisfaction.
Contact Northern Utah Glass today for a consultation if you are interested in glass services.