Windows are a fundamental part of any home. They let light in, keep the elements out, and ensure safety. Although it would be ideal if they could clean and care for themselves, they require human attention to stay in good working condition. Many people think that properly maintaining windows means cleaning them once a year. While this is a great thing to do, there’s a whole lot more you should be doing throughout the year to take care of and extend the life of your windows. After all, window replacements are pricey, so unless you already need to replace your windows, why not take care of the ones you have?

BENEFITS OF MAINTAINING YOUR WINDOWS

Everyone knows they should keep up on all aspects of home maintenance, windows included. However, do you really know why? Before we discuss the ways to care for your windows in every season, let’s unpack why you should care about window maintenance in the first place.

• Preserve in-home air quality: Keep your windows clean and ensure the frames are free of debris and other build-up. The build-up that accrues on your windows comes from burning candles, cooking, previous homeowners smoking inside, and fireplace chemicals (if you have one). These elements that produce smoke create layers and layers of residual chemicals on your windows that you inhale every day. It doesn’t go away unless it’s cleaned.
• Sustain that curb appeal: Dirty, dingy-looking windows are just unattractive. By cleaning each part of your windows, you bring out the details in your home’s design. It looks more beautiful and is well-cared for, which increases its value, too.
• Brighten your home:  Clean, well-maintained windows also make your home look more attractive on the inside. Clean windows let in a lot more natural light, which brightens your home and makes space feel larger and more inviting. Allowing more natural light into your home is actually proven to boost your mood. If that’s not a reason to clean your windows, I don’t know what is.
• Preserve window efficiency: When layers of dirt and filth are allowed to build upon your windows, your home’s ability to heat efficiently decreases. Dirty windows diminish natural light, which eliminates another natural source of heat. In preparation for the winter months, you’ve got to make sure your windows are clean, so your home can heat efficiently. Additionally, weathered window frames often have broken seals, which create air leaks that impact your utility bill. Broken seals also allow moisture to build around the windows, causing mold.
• Increase window lifespan. When you properly care for your windows year-round, window lifespan increases. Keeping your windows free of filth and making sure they are in proper working order prevents future damage. A fully functional window system is less likely to break down, more likely to last well into the future, and sure to save you money.

SEASONAL WINDOW MAINTENANCE

Year-round window maintenance doesn’t require any special skills or extraordinary materials, but not everyone has the ability to perform the necessary tasks to maintain their windows. Whether you want to take on seasonal window maintenance yourself or hire window maintenance services through your trusted window experts doesn’t matter. As long as the work gets done, your windows will stay in great condition.

SUMMER WINDOW MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

The summer months are the perfect time to get outside and take care of window exteriors. Take extra time to inspect your roof for common problems, too. Make sure you complete this window maintenance checklist before summer is over and the chillier months arrive.

• Clean away dirt and debris
• Replace all damaged weather striping
• Repair or replace all damaged surfaces, including cracked/rotting wood
• Install storm windows

FALL WINDOW MAINTENANCE

Since you did so much of the hard maintenance work over the summer, there’s just one thing you need to do before the frigid and blustery winter months arrive; seal your windows. Even if your windows aren’t the most energy-efficient, by sealing them for the winter, you’ll keep your house warmer and your heating bill lower. To seal your windows, follow these two simple steps:

1. Inspect your windows on a cold, windy day to locate leaks and drafty spots (or get an energy audit done–professionals will walk through your home to tell you how you can make your home more efficient and recommend the best way to seal your windows, or replacement options if you’re interested in that solution. )
2. Seal your windows with a trustworthy caulk or heat-shrink film

WINTER WINDOW MAINTENANCE

During the winter, it’s cold and icy outside. These conditions are not conducive to doing any outdoor projects. If you’ve kept up with seasonal maintenance, you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the cozy indoors.

SPRING (WINDOW) CLEANING!

Spring is a great time to get up from the long winter slumber and get back outside and take care of home maintenance projects. Regularly cleaning your windows is the best way to fend off signs of wear and tear. Use the following tips to clean your windows every single spring (no excuses!), and your windows will last for years to come:

1. Grab a window cleaner (store-bought or homemade will do), a squeegee, and a microfiber towel. Don’t use paper towels. They’ll leave streaks and lint behind.
2. Use a sponge to deep clean the window tracks.
3. Scrape the rotted areas of all wooden frames and fill them with epoxy.

KEEP UP WITH YOUR WINDOW MAINTENANCE

If you’ve been a homeowner for a while, you already know that maintaining a home requires work. If you’re a new homeowner who is new to these responsibilities, start good habits from the beginning and stay on top of every aspect of home maintenance, including the windows. Everything will last longer, function better, and look more beautiful.

Performing seasonal window maintenance is a hallmark of a proactive homeowner. By doing so, you prevent problems before they start and, should a problem arise, the fix will be quicker and cheaper. However, should you ever need to repair or replace your windows, or need advice, call Principles Building & Remodeling. Our team of window experts will help you find the best window solution for your situation.