Simple Tips for Maintaining Your Windows and Doors

Image Credit: Chicago Windows Guy

Easy Tips for Maintaining Your Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are essential elements of every home. They serve as barriers against the elements, providing both protection and insulation, and they are also important aesthetic features. However, if not properly maintained, they can face a variety of issues over time, such as drafts, leaks, and general wear and tear. Regular maintenance can generally reduce these problems and increase the longevity of the item as well as add to the energy efficiency of the house and overall curb appeal. Here are easy and effective tricks to maintain windows and doors in good shape year-round.

Regular Cleaning for Lasting:
Cleaning windows and doors not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also helps prevent the accumulation of dirt, debris, and moisture.

Windows

• The use of warm water mixed with a mild soap to clean glass surfaces will suffice.
• Don’t use any strong chemicals that will destroy window coatings.
• With a moistened cloth, wipe out dirt or dust from frames and tracks.
• Squeegee-hitting is all you need to do to get that hard-to-reach window perfectly cleaned without any streaks.

Doors

• Dust door surfaces at least weekly to minimize dirt buildup.
• Polish with wood polish or wipe with a damp cloth for a shine.
• Gentle usage of cleansers on metal and fiberglass doors helps prevent discoloration.
• Disinfect and remove dirt from door handles and locks.
• Inspection for Damages Forced Regular inspections reveal little sources that can evolve into expensive repairs.

Windows:

• Inspect the glass for cracks or chips and seal immediately.
• Inspect the weather stripping and replace it if visibly worn.
• Ensure that window locks and latches are working well.
• Check screens for tears; patch or replace to keep insects out.

Doors:

• Look for indications of warping or swelling primarily in wooden doors.
• Squeaking hinges on doors should be checked and lubed.
• Examine the threshold and bottom sealing for proper convergence.
• Look to see if there are any gaps within the surrounding area of the door that could lead to drafts and/or possible entry for unwanted pest-invaders inside.
• Keep the Energy Efficient at its Best 
• The right maintenance of the place keeps heating and cooling costs down through improved insulation and, eventually, energy savings.

Sealing Gaps and Drafts

• Seal any gap around the window and door frames using weather stripping or caulk.
• Seal drafts with draft stoppers placed at the bottom of doors.
• Use insulating film on windows over the cold periods to reduce heat loss and entry into the indoor living space.
• Enhancing Window Treatments
• Install thermal curtains to help trap heat indoors.
• Use blinds or shades to control sunlight and related cooling costs.

Image Credit: Angie’s List

Window and Door Maintenance Guide

Lubrication of Moving Parts
Lubrication keeps moving parts of window and door hardware running smoothly, along with preventing their wear and tear.

Windows –

• Coat the window tracks and hinges in silicone-based lubricant.
• Stay away from oil-based lubricants that get dirt and dust attracted to them.

Doors-

• Lubricate the hinges of doors with WD-40 or a similar kind to prevent squeaking sounds.
• Easy usage in locks and keyholes is achieved by applying graphite lubricant.
• Droughts for Weather Damage

Different forms of weather can play havoc on the strength and robustness of windows and doors; hence, protection is required.

For Windows 

• Storm windows can also be put in for additional protection from the elements.
• The window sill should be cleaned regularly, and gutters should be checked to help drain the rainwater away from the window.

For Doors

• Seal wooden doors with a weather-resistant sealant to prevent their warping effects. 
• Install awnings or overhangs that prevent doors from facing directly out into rain and sunlight. 

Conclusion
Window and door maintenance doesn’t need to be overly complicated or time-consuming. Simply incorporating routine cleaning, inspection, and minor repairs into your regular agenda keeps the items in working order and effective for many years. That little investment of time goes a long way toward preserving home value and comfort. Start today with these simple maintenance practices, and let them enjoy well-maintained windows and doors all year round!