Snow, ice, rain, whipping winds…your windows take a beating to protect the inside of your home from the elements! As a result, your windows can start to deteriorate over time.
However, properly caring for your windows—with some basic maintenance and cleaning—can help you keep them newer, for longer.
Today, we’re sharing the window care tips you need to know to keep your windows in top shape. Keep reading, and add these items to your spring cleaning to-do list!
#1 Inspect your windows yearly.
When was the last time you looked at your windows, and not through them? We’d guess it’s been a while, right?
Small problems can become big problems over time, so it’s important to take a moment to inspect each of your windows every year. We recommend checking for cracks in the glass, leaks, drafts, and the appearance of “fog” or condensation in between the panes. These are all signs that your window may need to be repaired or replaced.
Also check the wooden frame itself for signs of rot (like waxy/bubbled paint and wood that’s softer in certain areas).
#2 Check your window’s seals.
The materials that seal your window—like weatherstripping and caulk—can break down over time, which can lead to drafts and water leakage.
Take a look at the caulk around your window to see if it is cracked, broken, or missing. If there’s a problem with your window’s caulk, the caulk should be fixed or replaced.
Do the same for the weatherstripping: if it’s broken or missing, replace it.
#3 Clean and add lubricant to your window tracks.
Dirt and debris can prevent your windows from opening and closing properly (in addition to making them look dirty and unattractive).
To clean your window tracks, try a dry brush first to brush away any dirt. If that doesn’t work, then use soap and water.
It’s also a good idea to apply oil-free lubricant to your window’s weatherstripping to keep it opening and closing smoothly. (Don’t use one with oil: that will attract dirt.)
#4 Paint your windows.
The paint or finish on your window doesn’t just make it look nice: it also protects the underlying material from the elements. (The more you know!)
If the paint/finish on your window is peeling, flaking, missing, or faded, it’s time to repaint. Just make sure to paint carefully: don’t paint over grime (for obvious reasons) or over moving parts or a window that’s shut (as the window will get stuck).
#5 Clean the window glass (streak-free!)
It can be extremely annoying to put all that elbow grease into cleaning your windows, only to see them covered in streaks later. Here are a few tips to help you easily clean your windows so that they’re sparkling and clear:
- Use distilled water—it doesn’t have minerals to leave deposits on your windows.
- Use dedicated glass cleaner (or, to go the natural route, a mixture of white vinegar and distilled water).
- Use microfiber cloths or (best) a squeegee. Don’t use paper towels (they leave lint behind) or newspaper (they can leave ink behind).
- Still experiencing streaks? Try buffing the window with a cloth after you’re done cleaning.
Call Us for Window Repair
If you find a problem with your windows during this upcoming spring cleaning, don’t hesitate to call us! The window experts at Jack’s Glass are here to help you determine whether your window can be repaired or needs to be replaced.
Our local, family-owned and -operated business has been helping Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky homeowners with their commercial glass, auto glass, glass shower and window needs for more than 70 years. Contact us today at our Elsmere or Covington locations.
