A Guide to Window Maintenance

Window maintenance is key to a well-protected home. Windows are used for a variety of reasons, whether it be protecting your home from dust, pollen, or extreme temperatures.

Windows last for years - the average lifespan of a window is between 15 to 30 years. This is why you should maintain your windows correctly.

There are many ways in which you can keep your windows clean throughout the different seasons and weather conditions. Although maintenance tasks are simple, they make a huge impact on the longevity of your windows.

Basic cleaning and maintenance will keep your windows in good condition. Not many people clean their windows as it is something that doesn’t seem as important to them compared to other things. Therefore, this can be easily forgotten. For a guide on how you can maintain your windows correctly, read on!

Clean Your Windows

No matter what time of the year it is, your windows face elements that can leave them looking worn out and damaged. This is why when it comes to cleaning your windows it is important to remember to use a non-abrasive or all-purpose cleaner such as liquid dish detergent and warm water.

Glass Panes

When cleaning your windows it is important that you are getting to all the surfaces. For example, glass panes. If your glass panes are dirty, this can leave your room looking dull and run down. In order to clean your window panes correctly, you should start by putting non-abrasive cleaner on a cloth and start to carefully wipe your windows on both sides.

It is important that you avoid any pressure when washing your windows. This is because high-pressure washing can break the seal on your windows as well as wear away the film. If at any point you need to deglaze your window but don’t know how to move the glass safely, then our suction cups can help.

It is recommended that you hire a professional to remove your window panes. However, if you insist on doing this yourself, then GGR Glass has the solution for you. It is important that you handle glass safely to avoid any injuries. We offer a range of suction cups from slap-on cups to lever-operated suction cups - we have it all!

But, why exactly do you need glass lifting suction cups? It's simple, suction cups are essential for the safe handling of different types of glass no matter the size, for more information, click here!

Caulking and Seals

Each window is sealed with caulk or silicone to add that extra bit of insulation to your home. The seals of your windows also need to be cleaned to reduce any build-up of dirt. To clean this area, you do this in a similar manner to the window itself with non-abrasive cleaners.

Tracks

The window track runs along the bottom and sides of the window and is a key place where grime, debris, dirt and moisture build up. This is especially common if the bottom sash is open frequently.

To clean this area effectively, you will need an all-purpose cleaner to gently scrub the area with a cloth. It is important that when you are cleaning the tracks you ensure you are cleaning both horizontally and vertically.

Inspect Your Windows

It is important that you inspect your windows at least once a year. You are looking for any peeling caulk around the frames, cracks in the glass and any gaps around the edges. If there are any gaps around your window frame, then this can cause a draft throughout your home.

When inspecting your windows, you must take into account any minor issues such as chipped paint or excess moisture. This is to make sure that the minor problems don't turn into something bigger further down the line.

You will also benefit from checking your windows after harsh weather conditions such as hail storms. This is to ensure that your window isn’t damaged and that if there are any minor issues, you can repair them.

Maintain Your Frames

The maintenance of your window frame varies depending on the type of material. For example, materials such as fibreglass and vinyl don’t need as much care compared to wooden frames. To keep your window frames in good condition, it is recommended that you wash the frames at least a couple of times per year.

If you are someone that has a wooden window frame, then this type of material requires more upkeep. When you inspect your wood frames, make sure that you keep an eye out for any chipping or peeling paint.

If your pain is peeling or chipping, then it is probably time to consider refinishing the windows. It is recommended that you refinish your wooden window frames every 5-10 years.

Benefits of Window Maintenance

Maintaining the quality of your window comes with a range of benefits. For example, cleaning your windows improves the aesthetics of your home. Even if your house is clean, dirty windows can cause your home to look dull.

Keeping on top of the cleanliness of your home is a great way to extend the lifespan of your windows. Debris and dirt can easily get into the tracks of your windows which is why regular cleaning is important to ensure that your windows function correctly.

Not only does maintaining the quality of your windows increase their lifespan - regular window maintenance can prevent you from having to fork out the cost of window repairs too.

Taking care of your windows can also improve the air quality throughout your home. If there is any dirt left on any surfaces, this can affect the air quality inside your home.

If your windows have any leaks or condensation, then this could mean that there could be mould growing in the cracks. Moisture is the perfect environment for mould, which is why you must keep on top of your window maintenance to prevent this from happening.

These are just some of the many reasons why keeping on top of your window cleaning is important. So if you want your windows to remain in good condition, then following these steps will help!