Window Cleaning & Maintenance Tips for Longer-Lasting Windows

Believe it or not, the life cycle of a window depends as much on upkeep as it does on materials and initial construction. If a window is not properly maintained, it can struggle to weather the elements—leading to costly repairs or even an outright replacement. In fact, the market for new window installations continues to expand year by year, seeing a .4% growth in 2023. While professionals can certainly facilitate better upkeep from season to season, there are still quite a few handy DIY steps any homeowner can take to keep their windows in tip-top shape. Follow these tips to ensure that your windows will remain beautiful and functional for many years to come.

Weatherstrip for the Winter

Every window is unique. While windows and their openings are initially designed to fit together, the subtle changes both experience during their life cycle can lead to small pockets where cool air can leak into your home. These lapses in sealing can create a strain on your energy systems. Many times, though, a little weatherstripping can close the gaps and get your window back to its peak performance. Once you’ve identified the troublesome air pockets (usually by spotting light leaks in the frame) you can resolve them by applying a strip of sealing. Best of all, weatherstrips come in a variety of styles and materials, meaning you can always locate the right brand for your distinct needs.

Lubricate Jammed Windows

As windows age, they can grow harder and harder to open. This problem is caused by a number of factors—from eroding springs to dust or dirt getting stuck in the tracks. But a stuck window can usually be remedied through a combination of cleaning and lubrication. After vacuuming and wiping down the window with cleaner and warm water, you can apply a lubricant to the tracks, jamb liner, and weather striping. If the window was indeed obstructed by dirt or debris, this straightforward fix will resolve the issue in no time.

Moreover, if you want to prevent jamming in the future, you should regularly wash your windows to keep them clear of dust and outside particles. This can also prevent weather damage from condensation and maximize efficiency during harsher months of the year. It takes only a few minutes, and it can lead to substantial savings down the line.

Know When to Call a Professional

There are, of course, some problems windows face that do call for a more professional approach. If your window no longer fits into its casing or is showing serious signs of cracking or disrepair, you will need to contact a professional to oversee its maintenance. That being said, there are still plenty of steps window experts can take before recommending an outright replacement, meaning you still have an opportunity to get the most out of your home’s windows. Most importantly of all, homeowners should get ahead of serious issues rather than ignoring them—after all, a small crack or air pocket today might grow into a far more complicated problem in the weeks and months ahead.

As a homeowner, you want to get the absolute most out of your windows. Not only are window replacements costly, but they also come with a variety of logistical challenges. Thankfully, many of the tools needed to preserve your windows are accessible and straightforward. By weatherproofing them for the winter and keeping them clean through regular washing and lubrication, you can greatly extend the life of your windows. But should you run into any serious problems with your current windows in the Omaha area, reach out to the experts at Dr. Exteriors to gain the insight and recommendations needed for window maintenance, repair, or replacement.