Buyers Tools

10 Tips on Caring For Windows

Extending the life of your windows can mean long-term savings for your family. To maximize the lifespan of your home’s windows, the experts at “Euro-Tech Windows¨ recommend the following tips:

Tip #1 - Never wash windows or doors with a high pressure spray. The extreme pressure could crack or destroy caulking around the units. Instead, take time to individually clean the windows. If you have vinyl windows, a soft cloth or ordinary long-handled soft bristle brush and some mild detergent may be all that’s necessary to maintain your windows. Do not use abrasive cleaners that may scratch the frame or glass.

Tip #2  - To clean unexpected stains on vinyl windows and door frames (such as bubble gum, felt-tip pens, lipstick, motor oil or top soil), try using Fantastik cleaner. For tougher stains (such as tar, pencil or oil marks) use Soft Scrub.

Tip #3  - Vacuum around the edges of weather stripping to remove any dirt build-up. Carefully vacuum window screens regularly instead of removing them and cleaning with soap and water.

Tip #4 - Recycle old, white cotton hole-ridden socks and use them for cleaning window sills and frames. Slip the socks on your hands and you can feel your way toward a cleaner window.

Tip #5  - Never insert nails or screws in the interior or exterior of a window frame to hold up holiday decorations or lights. Window frames should never be tampered with or they can lose their ability to function properly.

Tip #6  - If the glass in a window gets broken, do not replace the glass yourself. Some windows have Insulated Glass Units, which contain harmless Argon gas that helps in the window’s energy efficiency. A replacement unit should be ordered and installed that perfectly matches the original window.

Tip #7- If you have brass hardware on your windows, use a dry, clean, soft cotton cloth to remove dust and dirt from the protective lacquer coating on the hardware.

Tip #8 -Thoroughly wash the exterior frames of your windows (including the sill that is exposed within your home closest to the screens) twice yearly. Remove any bugs or dirt that may have accumulated.

Tip #9 - Use a light combination of vinegar and water to gain sparkling glass on your windows.

Tip #10 - Over time, dirt may accumulate on window edges and corners. To remove the build-up, use Q-tips dipped in vinegar. Make sure to thoroughly rinse with water afterwards.

Understanding your windows and accurately maintaining them can extend their lifespan. When it comes time to replace your windows, We advise homeowners to invest in Energy Star Certified vinyl windows, Vinyl windows can definitely eliminate many maintenance woes and give you years of beauty on the interior and exterior of your home.

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