Your Window Maintenance Questions, Answered

Proper Care Helps You Avoid Window Replacement, But Sometimes It’s Necessary Anyway

Understanding home maintenance is a years-long challenge. Not everyone becomes an expert – and not everyone needs to when they find reliable companies to help them care for their homes.

Although mastering home maintenance isn’t feasible for everyone, knowing where to seek expert advice can make a big difference when managing tasks.

Read on to get the answers to your window maintenance and window replacement questions.

How Do I Properly Clean My Windows?

To clean the part of your windows inside your home, simply spray and wipe them down using your favorite window cleaning product and soft cloth.

Cleaning the outsides of windows is more complex. Here’s a process that window-cleaning experts recommend.

1. Spray down exterior windows with a hose to remove dirt and debris from the surface. Adjust the pressure as needed to remove the grime. You may need to remove your window screens before completing this step and any further steps.
2. Soak a large sponge or brush in a bucket of hot, soapy water. Dish detergent actually works well as a cleaning agent! Stir the water to evenly distribute the soap.
3. Squeeze out excess liquid from your sponge and scrub your windows in a circular motion. Use a ladder or extension pole to reach the second story.
4. Rinse your windows using your hose until all traces of soap are gone.
5. Dry your windows using a squeegee or newspaper. (Crumple up the newspaper and use a circular motion for best results.)

Should I Paint My Window Frames?

You can paint your exterior and interior window frames, especially if they’re made of wood. You can paint vinyl and aluminum window frames, although it may be more challenging.

Keep in mind that painting window frames may void any warranty you have on them, and paint is often a temporary solution to an aesthetic problem. If you want to change the look of your windows and solve leaks or energy efficiency issues, then it’s better to invest in window replacements.

Do I Need to Oil the Moving Parts Of My Windows?

Over time, your vinyl or aluminum windows may not open and close as smoothly as they once did. Lubricating them once a year can help.

Start by cleaning the window tracks; the crevice attachment on your vacuum works well for this. Then, you’ll need a silicone lubricant and a dry cloth. Spray the lubricant onto your cloth and apply it into the tracks and jamb liner. You’ll need to fully close and fully open the window to access every inch of the track.

How Do I Repair My Window Screens?

You can repair your window screens using one of two methods. The first is to purchase a screen patch and apply it only to the damaged section of the screen. This works if your screen only has a small hole or cut.

For larger-sized damage, you’ll need to remove the damaged mesh entirely and replace it with new material. Remove the screen frame from the window opening, then:

1. Using a screwdriver, remove the window screen spline from the retaining grooves around the frame. You can then dispose of the damaged screen mesh.
2. Stretch and cut new screen mesh. Roll out the mesh over the window frame so that it overlaps the frame’s retaining grooves. Cut the screen using scissors.
3. Use a spline roller to press the spline and screen into the frame’s retaining grooves. Secure all four sides.
4. Trim away extra mesh material using a utility knife.

What Do I Do If My Window Is Cracked?

If a pane of glass in your window is cracked, you can either repair or replace the window. To repair the window glass, you’ll need to find a professional glazier, a skilled tradesperson. They can cut and install a new pane of glass for you. However, this is not always a cost-effective option.

Otherwise, you’ll need to replace the window.

How Do I Know I Need Window Replacement?

You may want to begin shopping for replacement windows if you’re experiencing any of these challenges in your home:

• Your windows are hard to open and close, even when they’re fully lubricated.
• Your energy bills are rising or your home is uncomfortable because your current windows are drafty.
• Your furnishings and floorings are faded where the sun streams through your windows; this could be a sign that your windows lack thermal protection and cannot block harmful UV rays from the sun.
• You hear the outdoors, even while you’re inside. Road traffic, barking dogs, or other people performing exterior maintenance shouldn’t sound like you’re in the middle of the action! Replacement windows can help reduce noise that enters your home.
• Your curb appeal is lackluster. New windows elevate the look of your home, which can be appealing to potential buyers. And if you don’t plan to sell any time soon, beautiful curb appeal can make you happier with your home, too.

Most obviously, you should consider purchasing replacement windows when yours are actually damaged. This can include a permanent window fog, which indicates your frame isn’t airtight, or broken panes of glass, which let in air, moisture, and even insects.

How Much Do Window Replacements Cost?

The cost of window replacements will vary, depending on:

• How many windows you need.
• The size and style of windows you need.
• The material the window is made from (i.e. vinyl, aluminum, wood, advanced polymer composite).
• The window quality you select.
• Special window features, including UV-ray-blocking coatings or special insulation.

The only way to know the true cost of new windows specifically for your home is to contact a window replacement service for a free, no-obligation estimate.

Are Replacement Windows More Energy Efficient?

Most homes have older windows that just can’t match the energy efficiency of today’s quality replacement windows. Replacement windows can help reduce energy bills and keep your home comfortable year-round.

According to ENERGY STAR, new windows can lower your household energy bills by an average of 13%, if you’re upgrading from single-pane windows.

How Do I Find a Window Replacement Service I Can Trust?

Your best bet for finding quality windows, expert installation, and the level of customer service you expect is to look for a window replacement service that:

• Employs its own installation crews. They can ensure each team member meets their high standards.
• Offers FREE, no-obligation estimates.
• Lets you choose the right window solution for your home, rather than telling you what you need.
• Can help you secure financing, if you need it.
• Offers warranties on both new windows and their installation.
• Has been in business for a long time, because you know they have a history of customer satisfaction and will

still be in operation for years to come, so they can fully honor their warranty.