16 June 2016
 Categories: , Blog

If you take proper care of your windows, you will be able to extend the life of the windows in your home. Here are four maintenance tasks you need to complete this summer in order to ensure your windows are in tip-top shape.

#1 Inspect Window Caulking

Typically, caulking is applied around the outside of windows, between the window and your exterior siding or walls. It helps protect your home and helps maintain a tight seal around your window.

Over time, caulking on your window starts to wear down and deteriorate, so it needs to be replaced from time to time. Check the outside of your windows and see if the transparent or whitish colored caulking around the outside of your window is peeling, worn away or gone completely to discern whether it's time to replace the caulking.

You can purchase caulking at your local home improvement store. Make sure that you purchase caulking that is designed for outside use. You should also purchase a caulking gun; this attaches to the caulking container and allows you to squeeze the caulking out at a consistent rate.

#2 Inspect Weather Stripping

The next thing you need to inspect is the weather stripping on your window. The weather stripping is located between the window pane and window sash. This material helps keep your window well insulated and helps cut down on drafts around your window.

Over time, the material that makes up your weather stripping can dry out and crack. If the weather stripping looks compromised, you'll want to replace it. You can also purchase this material at your local home improvement store. You'll need to pull the old weather stripping out; with the assistance of a screwdriver, you should be able to easily pry it off. Measure the old weather stripping and cut the new weather stripping down to size. You should clean the area where the old weather stripping was before pushing the new weather stripping into place.

#3 Check Window Hardware

Finally, check the hardware on your window and make sure that it is working properly. Make sure that your windows open and close smoothly and that it locks smoothly as well. If any of your windows do not open smoothly, you'll want to clean the hardware pieces and remove any dirt and grime that may have built up on the hardware. You may also want to apply WD-40 to these hardware mechanics if they are still giving you trouble after you clean them. 

For more information on window maintenance or replacement, visit a site like http://www.windowstampa.com.