Love Your Windows for Years to Come with These Care Tips
When homeowners first get Marvin replacement windows, from a trusted contractor like Siding and Windows Group, it’s easy to see the value new windows provide. Better views, brighter natural lighting, stronger insulation and more—all of these benefits add up to making homeowners happy with their investment. But to enjoy the most value over the long-term, it’s important to properly perform window maintenance.
Simply put, when you take great care of your new Marvin windows, you’ll get the best return on your investment, enjoy your home, attract buyers when you’re ready to sell, and so much more.
These top tips will make maintaining your replacement windows a cinch—and give you years of satisfaction.
Perform Periodic Cleaning
One of the easiest things to do for window maintenance that creates lasting performance is to clean them, using these techniques:
- Regularly wipe down windows with a damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and dirt.
- Use a combination of warm water with everyday detergent, and spritz generously.
- Softly scrub and rinse before using glass cleaner to keep your new windows sparkling.
- Don’t forget to clean other areas, such as jambs, sills, and window tracks.
- For stubborn dirt and other stains like bird droppings, saturate a sponge thoroughly with vinegar and water, and gently wipe the stain away.
- For homes located next to water such as Lake Michigan, cleaning window exteriors regularly can help keep fiberglass and vinyl surfaces free of moisture-related residues.
Repair or Replace Damaged Window Parts
Holes, splinters and other problems with your home’s window, no matter how small, can lead to further damage—lessening the life of your windows. Even small cracks allow air to move in and out of your home, driving up heating and air-conditioning use.
- Fix cracked or broken glass promptly to prevent potential energy leakage and accidental cuts.
- Periodically inspect for any rips, tears, or holes in window screens. Quick screen repairs will protect the window surface and keep your home exterior looking nice and neat.
- Inspect interior and exterior finishes, looking for any signs of corrosion, peeling, and cracking.
- If needed, repaint. Adding a new coat of paint or finish gives a window added longevity.
Keep an Eye on Window Frames
Over time, temperature changes, weather elements, as well as normal wear and tear, and the occasional settling of the home can result in slight gaps between different parts of the window, causing unwanted air and water permeation.
- Seasonally, do a visual inspection to see how well everything fits together.
- Open and close windows to make sure they function properly. If they don’t, it’s a sign you’re not getting the proper energy efficiency.
- Test locking mechanisms. If windows cannot be locked or unlocked any longer, there may be an issue with how the window hangs in its frame.
- If you see noticeable moisture buildup, this can also be a sign that the windows are not fitting in place the way they should.
Check Window Seals
Not only is the sealant around your windows important for energy efficiency—it’s also an essential element for creating strong curb appeal. The seal around a window helps ensure that they are watertight and airtight, and when they are in place, your windows look crisp and attractive.
- Keep in mind: any gaps around your window means increased energy bills, not to mention unwelcome draftiness.
- Look for areas where the window sealant is cracked, broken, or missing.
- Replace missing caulking as needed.
- If damage is extensive or if the problem is more involved than a need to re-caulk, have your Marvin windows inspected by a professional.
Maintain Window Tracks
An often-overlooked aspect of window maintenance is caring for the tracks on the window frame. Tracks get dirty, full of insect remains, dust and debris, which can lead to problems in just a short period of time.
- A combination of baking soda and clean water, or any reliable cleaner, can be sprayed on the tracks.
- Lightly scrub with a toothbrush to remove the buildup in window tracks.
- Be sure to check and clean all windows, including ones you don’t frequently open.
- When applying lubricant to window tracks to keep them moving smoothly, use oil-free lubricant on the weatherstripping. Oil-based lubricants promote dust and grime buildup, which clogs tracks, making them difficult to open and close.
Perform Yearly Checkups
Twice a year during spring and fall, conduct a thorough check on your windows—it’s one of the smartest things you can do to protect your home. Preventative maintenance is an important part of a long-lasting home.
- Check for signs of wood rot on wood frames, and make repairs to prevent rot from spreading.
- Look for moisture infiltration inside double- or triple-pane windows; this can mean a failed seal that needs to be replaced.
- Check all windows for cracked or chipped paint, and repaint as needed. This protects the window’s surface and keeps your home looking attractive.
- If you discover sealant cracks or breaks, replace caulking or have repairs made.
- Take note of any issues with sliding sashes or window cranks. Egress windows in particular should be checked for functionality. If they’re not working, they should be repaired immediately for everyone’s safety.
- After severe weather rolls through, double check for evidence of leaks, cracks from flying debris, etc.
Get Lasting Home Improvements from Our Expert Team
As you enjoy your beautiful replacement windows, you may notice other areas of your home that would benefit from an upgrade. At Siding & Windows Group, we do more than install replacement windows. Whether you’d like to enhance your home’s functionality and attractiveness with today’s latest patio doors, a lovely new patio, or long-lasting replacement siding, our team is here to help.
Check out our other services, and contact us anytime to request a quote.
