The season change is just around the corner, and with that comes the beautiful sunlight and the marvelous colors of spring. Is your home ready for it?
The best way for your house to let the fresh breeze and natural light in through your windows. There are many types of windows to choose from, and each one adds a special touch to your house. It is essential to have them clean and give them the maintenance they need.
Replacing or fixing problems in your windows during spring is the best idea. Longer days, less chance of rain and better weather, help the workers get the job done faster.
To help ensure your windows are ready for this Spring, we have created a 3 part guide to help you out, including:
- How to clean windows
- How to perform basic maintenance
- How to know if you need to replace your windows
With that said, let’s jump right in and explore effective techniques to clean your windows.
What are some effective techniques to clean windows?
Winter and some of the Fall can leave you small problems that might turn into big ones if you don’t fix them.
The cold weather might break down the rubber and seals of your window, making your electricity bills increase throughout the year.
Leaks and cracks around windows and doors will damage the wood around it. Frequently cleaning your windows is one of the best things you can do to keep your windows in great condition.
Getting your windows clean is easier than it looks, you just have to do it step by step.
Cleaning the Outside of Windows
Step 1
Remove window screens from the tracks, gently use a hose to take out the dirt, and let them air-dry before putting them back on.
Step 2
Clean the window frames, grilles, and sides using a mild soapy solution with a non-abrasive brush.
Step 3
With a microfiber cloth wipe the dust from the glass windows, this will keep it lint-free. Please do not use a paper towel on glass surfaces to deep clean; it will give the opposite effect and leave streaks. To wipe the glass and get it clean use soapy water.
Other window cleaning solutions you can use include:
- Diluted white vinegar
- Liquid window cleaners
The trick to streak-free windows is making circular movements with the lint-cloth starting at the top. You may also choose to use a rubber blade.
Window washing is done from top to bottom. That way, you won’t get any liquid cleanser dripping over an already cleaned area.
While cleaning windows, it is imperative to check if the seal is in good condition and see if there are any leaks. By doing so, it will help you to know if you need to get it replaced or if you need to fix a little detail.
Tips for Home Window Maintenance and Repair
The first step in the window maintenance process is to expect key elements of the window to identify any potential issues. Here key steps you can take to inspect your windows:
- Open and close the window to identify
- Inspect the interior and exterior of the windows
- Look for dirt or grime in the windows tracks
- Test each lock and latch
- Check weather stripping and caulk
- Identify any water damage
- Test for air leaks
Now that you have fully inspected your windows, we are going to explore several home window repairs you can do yourself.
Rotten Material
Look for any cracked or peeling paint, and wood that is darker or even with green algae spots.
Tool needed to fix this: screwdriver
Steps:
-
- Probe where there is end grain, around joints, and close to specks of dirt, concrete, or masonry.
- Once you find the rotten areas, fill them with two-part epoxy resin. If it’s worse, replace the rotten wood.
- The final step is to paint.
Leaks
Leaks can typically be found in the joints of two different materials. Meticulously search them, so your bills don’t make you have a heart attack.
Drafts can also enter through parts of the window where the caulk has deteriorated.
Caulking windows is something you can do yourself.
Sealing with Caulk
Recaulking your windows is not difficult, you will need the right kind of sealer, a putty knife, rags, and a steady hand. Here are 5 steps to recaulk your windows:
- Clean out the old caulk
- Cut the tip of the caulk tube and break the inside seal
- Steadily apply the caulk
- Smooth the seal
- Clean up quickly
New and Replacement Windows
There are times where basic repairs and window maintenance will not be enough to solve your window problems.
Installing a new window or getting a replacement might be your only option.
For the majority of readers, these terms probably mean the same, but they are not. Getting a completely new window means changing the size of the window opening. On the other hand, getting it replaced refers to the one that fits in the already existing opening.
How to know if you need to replace your windows
With home projects being costly, it’s important to know if you really do need to install new windows in your home. Below are 5 tips you can use to determine if you need to replace your windows:
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- You hear a lot of outside noise.
- You feel a draft coming from the window.
- Windows are damaged, chipped, or you have identified water damage.
- Opening and closing are not smooth.
- Condensation builds up in the glass.
Picking the Right Home Window
There are different window styles, such as single or double-hung windows, awning, slider, and casement windows.
Whether they are for your house or an entire building, there has to be an analysis of what is needed and wanted.
The selection of a window is important. It may sound crazy, but they have a high impact on your wallet. Apart from being an aesthetic strategy, they also can raise the value of your house and reduce your bills.
Here are five easy steps you can take to pick the right window:
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- Choose a window style.
- Choose a frame material.
- Choose an insulated glass package.
- Choose customer windows.
- Work with an established window company.
Home improvement through windows
The uniqueness and different styles of architecture that surround Chicago must influence your selection of windows. Whether your house is characterized by a colonial-style or by Victorian-era, it must have coherence in its architecture.
Adding a custom feature or by putting some decoration that can be moved later, such as flowers or garlands, can enhance the home insights.
Chicago Window Guys provide high-quality windows that help you with home improvement and are energy efficient. Whether you need a sliding window or even a single hung window, they offer the best products and replacement installation at the best price.
Spring is the perfect time of the year to have windows replaced. Call Chicago Window Guys, don´t wait, schedule right now so you don’t miss the opportunity of having the spring-like home feeling!
from
https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/spring-guide-for-home-window-maintenance/
