Squeaky Clean: How to Extend the Life of Your Windows

It isn’t very often that people will stop and appreciate windows like a piece of fine art. We’re window people, and trust us when we say that everyone takes windows for granted at times. They’re always there. Always reliable. They don’t walk out when the going gets tough, and so they pass into the background of your thoughts. However, neglect them completely, and you’ll start to notice problems over time. A little fog or condensation between the panes. Smudges and dirt and pollen and grease begin to stock up. You might even start to feel drafts that definitely weren’t there beforehand. So, in order to keep those little things from stacking up to big things, here are a few ways to keep your windows in tip-top shape.

Regular Cleaning: A Little Elbow Grease Goes A Long Way

It’s kind of funny how the simplest little things keep the big bad things at bay. Though it significantly improves your windows’ aesthetics and viewing potential, regular cleaning really does help with functionality and performance. Dirt, grime, insects, old grease, and even rainwater collect. Then, before you know it, there are stains, caked on muck, a window won’t open or close properly, and there’s a funny-smelling draft. 

Cleaning Tips:

• Use the Right Tools:
• • Yes, there are right and wrong things to use on your windows! The first step is grab your vacuum with that handy-dandy brush attachment, and suck up all that dry loose dirt and debris. Don’t forget the top of the frame or the tracks your windows slide along. Then grab and gentle window cleaner and a microfiber towel. Wipe the whole thing down, not just the glass.

• • If you wanna go old school for the glass, try mixing vinegar and water for your cleaner and using old, non-shiny newspaper as your towel. 

• • Avoid harsh chemicals! It can and will, over time, ruin your windows.

• Begin At The Top

  • Seriously, start your cleaning job at the top of your window. This will knock all the junk down, and if you start at the bottom and work your way up, you’ll just have to clean it again.

• Got A Stubborn Spot?

  • What’s the first thing you do when you can’t get a dish to come clean? You soak it! Do the same, well kind of, to stubborn spots that refuse to come off. Spray your cleaner on it and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Then wipe away.

  • We know this doesn’t always work, but you don’t want to take a razor blade to your windows. This can lead to mini scratches in your glass or you nicking yourself. If there’s a spot that just won’t come up, try a plastic scraper like what you’d use for dishes.
  • DO NOT USE Steel wool on your windows! Though steel wool is great for many different things, cleaning windows is not one of them.

• Don’t Skip The Tracks & Sills

  • We mentioned this a little earlier, but seriously, be sure that you get to those places. Not just vacuuming it out but giving it a good wipe down, too. 

• Frequency

  • We suggest a full window cleaning at least twice a year, but every quarter is optimal. When the season changes, it’s time to do that cleaning. 

Inspect & Repair: A Stitch in Time Saves Nine

While you’re doing your cleaning, be on the lookout for any issues, even minor ones. Search for fog, condensation, drafts, or water stains. If you see any of these, check your caulking and weather stripping. Those materials wear away with time and need occasional replacement. Once replaced, it should either stop the problem completely or stop it from progressing. 

Also, keep an eye out for any chips and cracks. One tiny little chip today could end up a spiderweb tomorrow. You don’t leave a chip in the windshield of your car, the same goes for chips in your window panes. Get it fixed when it’s small so you don’t have to end up replacing the whole thing later.

Proper Ventilation: Don’t Let Your Windows Sweat It

So you know how your bathroom mirror fogs up when you take a particularly hot shower? Well, your windows can experience similar situations. Too much moisture in your home can lead to water collecting on your windows, which can lead to mold, staining, and other forms of water damage. 

Be sure to use your exhaust fans in the areas where steam can build up like your kitchen and bathrooms. Atlanta can get quite humid, so you could always try a humidifier as well. Then, when the weather is nice, open up those windows, and let the fresh air work it’s magic.

Seasonal Maintenance: Adjust With The Times

Atlanta’s weather can range anywhere from hot, humid, sticky summers to windy, chilly winters. Not to mention the storms, and all the other little weather quirks that come with the territory. It’s important to give your home and your windows a little extra seasonal TLC. Think of it as switching up your decor for the holidays. What works for Halloween doesn’t work for Christmas.

Summer

For the warmer months, keeping those windows clear of pollen is the biggest adversary. Pollen is practically part of the air molecules at times. Good regular cleaning keeps pollen and your allergies at bay. Then there’s the heat. Trying to escape it, can sometimes be your only goal. Keeping those windows closed during the hottest parts of the day keeps that precious cold air inside and the sweltering heat where it belongs – outside. 

Winter

As for the colder months, your windows can use a little extra attention. It is extra important to check your window seals, caulking, and weather stripping. Though they might seem like little drafts, not a big deal, something you can put off, it will drive your HVAC unit into the ground. Those energy bills will spike, and your heater will be running all the time, and it’ll just poop out. That’s not only expensive upkeep but a whole new unit; cringe. 

If you’re not feeling any drafts, but your windows still have quite a bit of temperature transference, consider thicker curtains or drapes. There’s even thermal curtains for those of you who hate the cold with a particular passion. This will help lock in the heat and hide the cold away behind the curtains. 

Lubrication for Smooth Operation: Keep Things Running Like a Well-Oiled Machine

Nails on a chalkboard. Repeated pen-clicking. Yapping dogs. Talk about annoying. Those sounds, along with squeaking doors and sticky windows, drive most of us insane. There’s nothing worse than trying to focus, and your attention keeps getting pulled because of some noise that grates on your nerves. Except for maybe when things don’t work well when you need them to. 

The moving parts of your windows, such as hinges, cranks, locks, and/or the sliding tracks, all need a little extra something-something to keep them running smoothly. We suggest a silicone-based lubricant on the metal parts of your windows to keep things moving as they should be. Just a little dab will work. Don’t use too much or that dirt and grime you just cleared away will be back with a vengeance. Think of it as the WD-40 of the window world. It keeps things running nice and smooth, but doesn’t have any messy overspray. 

The Importance of Professional Inspections: Call in the Pros When You Need a Hand

Maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your windows, but sometimes it’s good to have a little help. You go in to the doctor once a year for a checkup, even when you think everything is fine. Well, we suggest the same for your windows: not every year, but every few years is good. This just-in-case inspection, like your wellness check, can spot any problems early or give you something to keep an eye on. You’ll save yourself a lot of hassle down the road. 

Extra Tip: For your hard-to-reach windows or any specialty coated windows, consider a professional cleaning service. These folks are trained to get to those high-up windows without risking safety and give them the royal treatment without risking damage. 

Treat Your Windows Right, and They’ll Treat You Right

The good ole golden rule. Taking care of your investment will always reap rewards. Your windows are an investment in your home, and we want you to experience all the benefits for as long as possible. By applying these few tactics, you can and will. Remember that we’re always here to lend a hand. Whether it’s a new installation, a quick repair, or just some solid advice, you can always call us at (470) 275-5159. Happy cleaning!