5 Tips to Keep Your Windows Beautiful
Washing windows can be a pain, but routine care does more than improve outdoor views or enhance curb appeal. A few simple maintenance tasks performed annually can actually increase the function, efficiency and lifespan of your windows. And with peak summer temperatures just around the corner, what better time to give your windows a once-over?
Get started with the following tips.
1. Clean the glass.
Scrub away unsightly water spots and grime using a commercial cleaner or a homemade vinegar solution of one part vinegar to one part hot water. Rinse with water, then dry and polish using a lint-free cloth. Be sure to clean the glass both inside and out.
2. Clean the screens.
Remove screens and wash them by hand using a mild detergent and water. Avoid using high-pressure sprays that could potentially cut through the wire mesh. For hard-to-remove stains, use a soft-bristle brush instead.
3. Replace damaged or missing caulk.
Caulking creates a watertight seal around your window. Without that seal, water may infiltrate the window frame and cause damage to wood, paint or drywall. It’s important to replace cracked, broken or missing caulk ASAP.
4. Replace old weatherstripping.
As weatherstripping becomes worn, cool air escapes the home, hot outdoor air infiltrates and energy costs gradually rise. Luckily, this is a relatively simple and inexpensive fix, and a number of options are available.
5. Add low-E film.
Want an affordable way to boost the energy efficiency of your windows? Low-E plastic window coatings are easy to apply, reflect 99% of UV rays and reduce solar heat gain. They also minimize glare and help protect artwork, furniture and flooring from sun damage. But be sure to keep them clean — exterior buildup can actually reduce the efficiency of low-E window coating, causing it to trap heat rather than reflect it.
For more helpful home maintenance tips, reach out today.
