Windows give you ventilation and allow natural light into your home, but when was the last time you really looked at your windows rather than through them? Unfortunately, few homeowners take the time to do what is necessary to clean and maintain their windows. Without proper care, they fall into disrepair and before long, you will need to replace them. All window styles and all materials need basic maintenance. That is the best way to prevent premature wear and tear and keep your windows in great condition for years to come. Here are some steps you can follow.

1. Thorough Cleaning

Windows are what sit between you and the elements. As with any type of barrier, they are exposed to all types of weather conditions. Wind, rain, dirt, debris, heat, cold—all of this can cause extreme wear and reduce the longevity of your windows. But with regular cleaning, you can reduce those problems. So wipe away dirt with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Open the sashes and remove any loose debris like leaves, sticks, or spider webs. Use a standard glass cleaner on the window panes. And never use abrasives or blades to remove tough dirt. This could scratch the finish on your frames or damage the coatings on your glass. And don’t allow water to seep into the frame because it can build up and cause countless problems.

2. Seasonal Inspections

Every few months, give your windows a thorough once-over to assess the structural integrity. Check for signs of moisture infiltration and water damage. You do not want to see discoloration or a spongey consistency. You should also check on the condition of your weather stripping to make sure it is intact and performing as it should. It should be flexible enough to compress and cut down on air leaks. You also want to pay attention to any fogging or condensation between the panes on your windows. This means you have seal failure and your windows are on the way out.

3. Re-Seal

If during your inspection you notice broken seals, you can try re-caulking. This will reduce air infiltration and improve the energy efficiency in your home. You can also replace weather stripping or improve insulation with a glass film. And if you notice holes or cracks on wood frames, fill them with putty.

4. Replace Damaged Parts

You need your windows to operate smoothly. For this, you want to keep the parts in good repair. And if something breaks or goes missing, you will want to get it repaired as quickly as possible. If you have cracked or broken glass, get it replaced quickly for your safety.

5. Repaint

If you have wood, aluminum, or fiberglass windows, you might have to sand and refinish them every three or four years. You don’t want scratches to cause rust or rot. Remove any loose or peeling paint and clean the area before sanding and painting. And if you splatter paint on the glass, remove it with boiling white vinegar.

Windows no longer look like new or function well? Look closely at getting replacement windows in Deerfield, IL. For a quote, call Scientific Home Services at (847) 752-0370 or stop by 7240 Saint Louis Ave., Skokie, IL 60076.