After Window Installation, Follow These Care Tips

They’ll Keep Your Windows Looking and Working Their Best!

Congratulations on your new window purchase! After installing home windows, properly taking care of them will help them last as long as possible.

Check out these easy tips to keep your windows in good condition. Always check your window manufacturer’s guidelines for specialized maintenance requirements.

Make a DIY Window Cleaning Solution

After window installation, you’ll probably notice you have a clearer view of the great outdoors, especially if your old windows were foggy or broken. Keep enjoying your view by cleaning your windows, inside and out.

Although you can buy window cleaner in your favorite big box store, you also can make your own using ingredients you already have around your house. You have two options for making your own cleaning solution.

• Mix two gallons of water with a teaspoon of dish soap in a bucket. Stir thoroughly. This is best for cleaning the exterior of your windows. If you’re cleaning the exterior of your windows during the winter, you may want to add a bit of windshield washer fluid to prevent the water from freezing on the glass.
• Add one part vinegar to 10 parts warm water in an empty spray bottle. For example, if you have a 32-ounce bottle, you’ll need three ounces of vinegar, then fill the rest with water. This solution is best for cleaning the inside of your windows.

A squeegee, scrubber, or large sponge can help you clean the outside of your windows, while a microfiber cleaning cloth is perfect for cleaning the inside. However, you should not use a squeegee on Low-E coated windows because it can damage the protective film.

To Paint or Not to Paint?

Not all new windows should be painted. Although you may want to paint your new wood or aluminum windows, other materials, like vinyl, should not be painted. Always check with your window manufacturer to find out whether paint will void your warranty.

If your windows are designed to be painted, avoid painting any of the window’s moving parts. Paint can cause the window to stick shut, and you’ll soon need another home window installation or repair.

Inspect Your Windows Every Year

Although your newly installed home windows should last for decades, that doesn’t mean that inclement weather can’t damage them or that your windows won’t degrade over time.

At least once a year, check each window frame, sash, glass panes, weather stripping, casing, and more. Watch for cracks, gaps, warping or other issues. Check wooden window frames or signs of rot. Test the opening, closing, and locking mechanisms.

If you spot any of these issues, you’ll want to contact a home window installation and repair company for help, but don’t forget to check your warranty first!

Caulking During and After Window Installation

Installing home windows gives your house a boost of curb appeal. Part of the installation process involves caulking around certain parts of the window to prevent drafts, heat loss, or moisture intrusion.

Experts who know how to install windows caulk around joints and non-moving parts. They never caulk moving parts (like hinges or latches) or weep holes, which allow water to exit the window frame.

If, years after installation, you notice the original caulk is peeling or chipping away, it could be time to recaulk your windows. Talk to your original window installation team to schedule repair as needed or follow the window manufacturer’s instructions for more details.

Clean and Lubricate Window Tracks

If you have double-hung windows that slide up and down, you may notice they seem “sticky” after a while. This might happen if the window tracks accumulate dirt and debris.

Cleaning and lubricating your window’s tracks can extend their lifespan and ensure smooth operation. Soap and water are great for cleaning. A soft brush or microfiber cloth can make the job easy.

After all the dust is gone, lubricate the tracks as directed in the owner’s manual that came with your windows when they were installed. Do not use oil-based or petroleum-based lubricants on PVC or vinyl windows. Apply the lubricant with a lint-free cloth.

Don’t Put Off Window Installation!

Delaying window installation could mean:

• Not having a clear view of the outside due to foggy panes. This can become a safety issue, especially if you need to keep an eye on children or pets as they play outdoors.
• Water entering your home and causing damage. Water damage creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Interior repairs can be expensive, especially if they involve mold remediation.
• Spending too much money on your heating and cooling bills. Cracked panes, missing weather stripping, or older window technology can drive up your living expenses. Newer, energy-efficient windows can ultimately pay for themselves because they can help lower your utility bills.

If you notice your old windows are no longer performing like you expect, don’t procrastinate updating them. Even with proper maintenance, replacement windows have a useful lifespan.