Unique Home Solutions has tips for your Summer Window Maintenance
Bob Dillon, President of Unique Home Solutions explains how keeping your windows clean and in good working order will pay off this summer.
Now is the time to be getting our windows ready for summer.
Cleaning the windows is a great place to start.
Wipe down wooden windows regularly with a damp cloth. This helps to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using too much water, as it is likely to encourage rot due to contact with moisture. Wash vinyl and aluminum-framed windows with a mild detergent and soft scrubbing brush. A glass cleaner helps leave your windows sparkling clean. Be sure to clean the window casing and the adjacent wall area as well. This helps to reduce build-up of dirt and debris in the window components, which often contributes to window jams.
Regular inspections can ensure the windows are performing correctly.
Check the condition of the window frame and sash. Use a metal probe to look for signs of rot, which could indicate moisture infiltration. Check for signs of moisture in double or triple-paned windows. This indicates that the seal has failed and has to be replaced. A failed seal reduces the insulation capacity of your windows. The sun can cause certain areas of the frame to become brittle and warp. Paint may have peeled off in certain areas. If you have weather stripping on your windows, check the condition during inspection. Make arrangements for replacement if the stripping has worn out. Check for any gaps between the window casing and wall. These can be filled with a latex caulk.
Make sure you check the window glazing.
First, examine the exterior of your windows to see what condition they’re in. If the glazing has a few hairline cracks here and there, it has some life left to it, but you should occasionally check to see if things get any worse. If there is glazing missing, or if you can fit a knife blade in the cracks, you need to reglaze your windows.
Look around the seals of the windows.
Replace all worn out weather stripping. This helps to reduce air and water leaks. It also helps to secure the window in place. Use spray-form insulation or caulk to help you seal your windows. Recaulk the exterior of the window around the outside to ensure proper seal.
Decide if your windows need to be repainted.
Re-paint wooden and metal window frames every 3 to 4 years. It helps protect them from the elements and maintains their appearance. Always apply paint onto windows that have been well cleaned. Be careful not to paint over moving parts or a shut window, as the window will get stuck.
And check and repair any other minor flaws that could lead to possible problems.
Attend to any cracks, holes, and splinters in the window promptly. The longer you to take to address damaged areas, the more the window will deteriorate. Once you identify the rotted sections in wooden windows, use a screwdriver to clean out the bad wood and then fill the cracks and holes with epoxy putty. Use several layers for the best results. Once the putty dries, smooth the area with sandpaper and then apply primer and paint. Like damaged frames, cracked or broken glass requires your immediate attention. Repair or replace your windowpane quickly to secure your home and prevents accidental cuts by the broken glass.
How do you know when it is time to replace the windows?
It depends on how much money you want to throw away maintaining the windows. When you are just maintaining the windows, you are wasting your time; you’re not making it more energy efficient, and you are not making it any better.”
Check out the Unique Home Solutions website uniquehomesolutions.org for more info and to enter their 2015 Sweepstakes. PLUS call and ask for this months special: 25% off Timeless Elite Windows
and a Free Gift with Home Demo of 2 hrs Handyman Service.
SEGMENT IS SPONSORED BY UNIQUE HOME SOLUTIONS