Practicing routine maintenance will help your windows last longer. It’s like anything else, take good care of something and it will take care of you. In the case of your windows, well-maintained windows are more effective at keeping the outside from getting in and protecting your home, your family, and your belongings from a variety of potential negative impacts.
If you don’t take good care of them, you find you need to replace your windows much sooner than expected. So here are some essential care and maintenance tips for preserving their condition for as long as you own them.
The Frames
Cleaning the frames of your windows should be done delicately and taking great care not to scratch or discolor the surface of the material. The first rule of thumb is to avoid using harsh, caustic cleansers with ammonia or bleach and opting instead for a mix of mild dish soap and warm water.
Using those heavy solvents and cleansers could damage the surface of the frames, ruining their appearance for good.
After you’ve finished cleaning, rinse thoroughly and dry completely. During the rinse process, clear away any dirt or debris that might be plugging up the weep holes in the frame. That’s important for preventing any potential opportunities for water damage.
The Windowpanes
When it comes to cleaning the glass of the windows themselves, you can use any one of the many reliable window cleaners that are on the market. But no matter what it is you end up using as a window cleaner, you must be sure to use plenty of it.
One of the most common causes of streaking on windows is due to using too little cleanser to do the job effectively. Don’t be stingy or sparing with your cleaning agent, go big and cover the entire area with enough fluid so that you can do the most effective job possible when you clean.
The type of material you use to clean the windows is just as important as the cleanser and the quantity you use as well. Avoid hard, rough, or abrasive materials and choose soft, dry cloth. You may also want to consider using a sponge to lather the windows with soap and then going with a rubber squeegee to wipe away the foam and moisture.
Squeegees are ideal for eliminating dirt and grime without leaving behind any streaks. When you’re done, grab your soft cloth and dry off any areas that you may have missed. When it’s all said and done, your windows will look good as new.
If you clean your windows and you still don’t like the way they look or your windows just aren’t functioning in the manner they once did, it may be time to look into getting Richmond Window replacement windows for your home. New windows can offer better protection from the outdoors and increased energy efficiency, which can help you lower your energy costs on an annual basis. Replacing your windows can also prevent any water damage due to precipitation seeping in through cracks or gaps.