Windows require maintenance to keep them looking good and functioning correctly. Even “maintenance free” vinyl replacement windows, aluminum and fiberglass windows require routine maintenance to prolong their life and make sure they function properly. Proper window maintenance should include cleaning and maintaining the glass as well as the frame. Without proper maintenance, windows will not function correctly and will need to be replaced more often which is not cheap or fun.
Recommended Window Frame Maintenance
It is recommended that you clean the inside and outside of window frames annually at a minimum. More often depending on the amount of dust, dirt and moisture they are exposed to. A good all purpose cleaner and cloth or sponge and brush should do the trick. Windows which open require additional cleaning care. The track, glide and locking mechanism should be cleaned thoroughly. If dirt and dust accumulate the window may not operate properly. Further, a window may not seal properly if dirt is allowed to accumulate. Additionally, dirt in and around a windows locking mechanism may cause it to not lock securely.
Recommended Glass Maintenance
Periodic cleaning of the interior and exterior glass in your windows is advised. Even the best windows will look terrible if the glass is dirty. Cleaning the interior glass is mostly for appearance purposes. Often neglected, particularly in hard to reach windows, the outside glass is exposed to many contaminants such as dirt, smog, acid rain, bird droppings and tree sap.
The longer contaminants are left on the glass the more difficult they will be to get off. Heat and cold bond contaminants to the window and can they can become permanently bonded to the glass. Contaminants left on the glass can create permanent etching of the glass. A good quality window cleaner or all purpose cleaner work well. If contaminants are attached securely to the glass you can scrub it lightly using a soft scouring pad.