Windows Care

Caring for Your Vinyl Windows

After you have invested time, effort, and money to install new windows, it would be a shame for your home's defining feature to fall into disrepair. Therefore, you need to follow the proper cleaning instructions and routine maintenance tips for home windows care, to ensure you a lifetime of enjoyment and unobstructed service from your window panes.

If you follow these simple instructions for home windows care, your new vinyl windows should last for as long as you own your home.

Frame Cleaning

Keeping your frames clean is just as important as cleaning the glass, in your new vinyl windows. Do not use abrasive cleaners. The toxic effects may damage the beautiful finish on the frames. A mild soap and plain water should do the trick. If in doubt, clean a hidden area of the frame, to make sure the finish is not adversely affected.

Glass Care

Like the frames, cleaning the glass should only require a mild soap and water. After washing the window, simply rinse with clear water, and wipe dry with a soft cloth.

NEVER use petroleum-based cleaners or caustic chemicals in house windows care. DO NOT ever grab a razor blade, putty knife, or abrasive item to get stuck on dirt and grime off the windows. The implements could damage the glass and ruin the insulation seal. Surprisingly, high pressure water hoses are not recommended for the same reason.

Tips to Maintain Window Operation

Taking a few minutes to maintain your vinyl windows can help ensure a lifetime of smooth operation. House windows care is quick and simple, but definitely requires more consideration than wiping hand prints off the glass.

First, lubricate your tracks once, maybe twice, a year. If you live near the ocean, a bi-annual lube job is recommended.

Second, to ensure energy efficiency, periodically check the weather-stripping to make sure the window is sealing tightly. If not, replacing the weather stripping is easy, and costs a lot less than the subsequent higher utility bills.

Third, when you are vacuuming your carpet, take a second to clear the tracks on sliding glass windows. A few seconds can guarantee that your windows will continue to operate smoothly.

Condensation and Mold

Condensation and mold can collect on your vinyl windows, if you do not take a few necessary precautions in house windows care.

1. Make sure your windows are tightly sealed
2. Do not forget to use the exhaust fan in your bathroom and other high humidity areas of your home.
3. Ceiling fans help circulate the air.
4. If the climate you live in has high humidity, purchase a dehumidifier.
5. When the weather allows, open windows to permit the excess moisture to leave the premises.

Proper Drainage

Finally, proper house window care means checking that the windows are draining properly after a storm. Although many of our window frames are angled toward the exterior, to allow proper drainage, just double check and make sure your home does not have an issue with standing water.

None of these cleaning or house windows care tips take more than a few minutes to accomplish. In the end, you will ensure a lifetime of faithful service from your vinyl windows.