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Clear and Secure: Tips & Tricks for Caring for Your New Windows

Your windows are one of the most important investments you make in your home. Security, curb appeal, safety, and highlighting a view are just a few of the reasons it’s essential to care for them properly.  Leaky windows allow rot, mold, and insects to get inside. Ill-fitting or warped casements and broken or ripped weather stripping can let in drafts. Tracks that are broken or dirty can keep a window from functioning correctly, causing a safety issue. Window maintenance isn’t complex, but it does need to be added to your regular home maintenance routine.

Windows that are cleaned and cared for properly beautify your home and offer the safety and security your family deserves.

Tips for Caring for Your New Windows

Windows are an expensive investment that should last a lifetime. Care and maintenance largely depend on the material your window is made from. For instance, wood windows may require regular painting, while vinyl windows should be inspected for breaks or holes. 

Pollution, weather, dust, and other environmental factors can take a toll on windows. You can’t control these natural acts, but you can control whether these factors cause harm to your investment. Regular care and maintenance will extend the life of your new windows. 

window maintenance tips

Yearly Maintenance 

Regular maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated. Knowing the type of windows you have and how to care for them correctly is essential. Create an ongoing calendar event or write it on your paper planner for the same time every year. We suggest March or September, depending on whether you prefer to take care of your yearly maintenance in the spring or fall.

Here are a few tasks to add to your annual window maintenance list. 

Lubricate all sliding window/door tracks and rollers with dry silicone spray. It is recommended that you lubricate all hardware components at least once a year, twice a year for coastal areas with salty air.

Regularly check the weather stripping on all windows and doors to ensure it is in good condition and sealed airtight. If your weatherstripping is starting to look brittle or show signs of wear, it’s time to replace it.

– Although you’ll be cleaning your windows more than once per year, it’s a good idea to vacuum the tracks occasionally on windows and doors to make sure there is no debris building up. 

– Some windows and doors have drainage systems called weep holes. If you notice any pooling or collecting of water that does not drain after a rain, check the weep holes for any debris that could be blocking the holes. 

window maintenance tips

General Care

If you prefer a visual aid, many manufacturers offer how-to-care videos or a printable user manual that will show step-by-step directions on how to best care for their brand of window. In the meantime, here are some general suggestions. 

Vinyl and Fiberglass

Wash dirt and smudges away using gentle soap and water. Dry fully. Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous area before using. 

Wood

When installed, all bare and primed wood must have a top-quality paint, finish, or water repellent wood preservative applied to all surfaces. This will need to be regularly maintained to keep the integrity of the wood and to prevent rot. 

When cleaning your screens remove from the window if possible and clean with a mild soap, warm water, and a soft brush. Rinse with clean water when finished and allow to dry. Be gentle not to tear the screen as you clean. 

Cleaning the outside of your window is just as important as the inside. Use a gentle soap and never use a dry cloth as dry debris could cause damage to the paint.

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A Note About Condensation

The insulating properties of the glass used in energy-efficient windows can cause condensation to collect on the glass under certain environmental conditions.

Condensation on the exterior of the window is normal and this is the window actually doing its job, condensation occurs usually at night time and when glass temperatures are above dew-point.  Interior condensation means high humidity and low airflow. If you ever notice condensation in between the panes, this is an issue that will only get worse but is often covered under warranty, in which case we recommend you reach out to your manufacturer.

Although following your manufacturer's instructions is the best way to specifically care for your window investment, following these tips is a great way to enjoy your view for years to come. At Newman Windows & Doors, your window investment is our highest priority. We welcome any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us here.

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