Vinyl replacement windows and patio doors are known for being low maintenance, but low maintenance isn’t the same as no maintenance– they need occasional cleaning to keep them in the best shape possible. Proper replacement window maintenance ensures that your home windows and patio doors look great, retain value, and reduce energy costs for years to come. Here’s what you need to know.
Frame Cleaning
- Before washing, vacuum the dirt from the window sill and track areas.
- Use a mixture of mild dish soap and water to clean the window and door frames.
- Never use abrasive or caustic cleaners or solvents.
- Always rinse completely with clean water and then wipe dry.
Drainage System
- Check to make certain the drainage or “weep holes” are always clear of dirt, stucco, sand, or building materials—both inside and outside of the window or in the bottom of the frame.
- It’s normal for water to accumulate in the sill or track area with wind driven rain. The water is supposed to drain to the outside as water builds up or outside pressure subsides.
- Keep sill or track areas clean of dirt or debris.
- Use a small, soft bottle brush to clear openings.
Glass Care
- Clean glass with mild dish soap and clean water.
- Avoid washing glass in direct sunlight.
- Never use abusive, petroleum-based cleaners or caustic chemicals on your glass.
- Never us a razor blade, putty knife, or abrasive pad to clean the glass.
- Never us a high pressure spray nozzle when rinsing your windows and doors after washing.
Condensation & Mold
- Condensation can be a natural occurrence in the home.
- Check all windows and doors for airtight seals.
- Open windows and doors whenever practical to allow interior moisture to escape.
- Regularly use ceiling fans to circulate the air.
- Use exhaust fans in rooms with high humidity (bathrooms/kitchen).
- Use dehumidifiers to reduce the amount of moisture inside homes with high humidity.
Screen
Clean screens by removing the screens and then washing them on a flat, clean surface with mild dish soap, water, and a very soft brush. Rinse, wipe dry, and reinstall.
Caulking
Maintaining your window caulking is the number one tip we can give replacement window customers. Caulking may be necessary to seal the window frame or trim against water and/or air filtration. Many issues encountered by our customers are preventable with proper caulking maintenance.
Maintaining your vinyl replacement windows and patio doors is not difficult, but it is important. Follow the tips above, and you’ll notice a difference—visually, with how nice they look, and financially, with the savings they’ll provide through reduced energy costs. Be nice to your vinyl replacement windows and patio doors, and they’ll be nice to you.