We often underestimate the importance of our windows. Windows are our means to observe the outside world, protect us from the elements, allow in a breath of fresh air and contribute to our home’s curb appeal.
To get the most out of our windows, we forget that they require time, care and consideration. When life gets busy, it’s easy to put your windows on the bottom of your to-do list, but putting some time aside will help extend the life of your windows. In this blog, we’re going to take a look at some tips on how to increase the lifespan of your windows.
1. Clean your windows
Our windows are impacted by their exterior and interior environment. Here in Simcoe County, we experience snow, freezing rain and blowing snow during the winter. Various weather conditions can impact your windows and cause them to deteriorate. For example, salt erosion negatively affects everything it comes in contact with, especially your windows. If you don’t have vinyl windows, for example, the salt in the air erodes aluminum frames and damages wood (which is why wooden and aluminum windows aren’t the best choice; but that’s another topic for another day). If your windows become damaged due to salt erosion, it leaves your windows open to moisture, which could cause more problems down the road.
If you want some tips for cleaning your windows, check out a previous blog we wrote about window cleaning tips.
2. Caulking and Sealing
When you’re cleaning your windows, check the caulking around the exterior and interior of your windows. Cracked caulk or any indications of a damaged window should be repaired immediately. Vinyl windows don’t require caulking usually, unless it’s for aesthetic value. If your windows are older, though, they won’t be as energy efficient as they once were. So, if you have caulking around the exterior of your windows, keep it up!
3. Rectify any damages to your windows
Any damages to your windows should be fixed, even if they appear minor at first glance. Chipped paint or faded stain on the inside or outside of your windows should be fixed, as both are used to protect your windows from the elements.
If your window has a crack in it, you will definitely want to take proper measures for repair. A cracked window damages the integrity of the window, making it likely to fail. Additionally, air flows through the crack in the window, which will make your home less energy efficient.
If you have cracked double or triple-paned windows, this will not only affect your energy efficiency, but it will also impact noise reduction.
Some windows are beyond repair. If that is the case, you should replace your windows. Kempenfelt Windows and Doors have been servicing Simcoe County and surrounding areas for years, providing exceptional customer service (we have the awards to prove it!). If you have any questions about windows, give us a call at 1-800-841-7469 or send us a message online.
