Preparing Home Windows for the Spring Season

After a long winter, many homeowners have a list of chores they want to tackle when spring comes around. Spring cleaning is a good time to take a closer look at their property and prepare for the change in season. Winter can be especially brutal on windows. The cold temperatures and ice buildup can cause damage. Minor problems can often be repaired. But if windows are old enough, homeowners might need to consider replacement windows in Portland, OR. To get started, here are a few simple steps for preparing home windows for spring:

1. Inspect the Windows

Before getting to work, homeowners should inspect all of their home windows. Start with the upstairs and work down. Test the operation of each window. Check for cracks, leaks, water damage, or fogging between the panes.

2. Remove the Screens

Screens keep pests and debris out of the home and are vital if homeowners plan to open their windows for ventilation during the spring and summer. While performing the initial inspection, remove the screens and place them on a flat surface outside or prop them up in the tub or shower. Check for tears and make any necessary repairs. Then, use mild detergent, water, and a soft bristle brush to remove dirt and debris from the screens. Homeowners should also thoroughly rinse the soap and allow screens plenty of time to dry.

3. Wash the Frame

Most modern window frame materials do not require a lot of maintenance. Vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum window frames are easy to clean with mild detergent and water. Simply use a soft cloth to wipe down frames inside and out, and then rinse. Once clean, quickly towel dry so water does not drip down and leak inside the frame. Never use harsh chemicals, abrasives, or power washers to clean the windows.

4. Clean the Glass

Next, homeowners should clean the panes on their windows with a generic glass cleaner. They can also use a combination of dish soap and water or vinegar and water for a streak-free shine. The key to glimmering glass is using a lint free cloth to dry and polish.

5. Lubricate the Tracks and Hinges

With time and use, the hinges and tracks will collect grime, making windows stiff and difficult to operate. It is important to remove loose debris with a vacuum. For stubborn dirt, homeowners can try to dislodge it with a soft bristle brush or plastic putty knife. Once the track is clean, spray a silicone lubricant into a cloth and wipe down the moving parts. This will help smooth operation, prevent damage, and prolong the life of the windows.

6. Seal the Edges

Caulk and weather-stripping is especially vulnerable to cold temperatures. So at the end of winter, homeowners want to pay special attention to the seals on their windows. If calk or weather-stripping is cracking and pulling away it will leave gaps in the assembly which can lead to air and moisture leaks. In the spring homeowners can scrape away the old material and replace it to help seal and insulate the windows.

For more tips about window maintenance, or if it is time for replacement windows in Portland, OR, contact us today. The window experts at EnergyGuard Windows & Doors are eager to help.