Windows and Doors maintenance is very essential to keeping the property in which you reside safe and secure. No matter what the purpose is in wanting to take care of your auto or home windows and doors this can prove to be time consuming and difficult work. Regardless of what your motive in wanting to take care of your vehicle or home windows and doors detailing can be worth your effort in possibly being a successful mechanic. In fact windows and doors have such a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your property that having them properly maintained can drastically change the appearance of your property. In order to take advantage of the benefits of having your windows and doors properly maintained I suggest reading the tips and advice in this article.
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Cleaning Windows & Doors
The most important step to taking care of your windows and doors is cleaning. Allowing dirt, grime, dust, and other unwanted particles to build up between the glass can lead to the glass becoming damaged. As well, the edges around the windows and doors can be compromised by dirt and grime that have collected there over time. By utilizing a good quality squeegee, sponge, or a microfiber cloth you can gently scrub the windows and doors with ease and not damage the glass. You will also need to ensure that the door jambs are not dirty or scarred from years of use. If you are unsure how to clean your windows and doors correctly then seek the assistance of a professional who will be able to guide you through the process.
Removing Unfavourable Objects
When it comes to maintaining your windows and doors properly it is important to remember to remove all objects that may be restricting the view to your windows and doors. For example, if you have small plants or shrubs that grow close to your windows and doors then these should be trimmed away so you can better see the glass. Also, removing objects that obstruct the view will allow you to clean the windows and doors properly without being restricted in your movements inside your home. Remember, anything that restricts your view will contribute to a cluttered home and make it difficult to perform home improvement tasks effectively.
Things to Take Care of while Cleaning Windows and Doors
- Homeowners often underestimate the importance of using gloves when removing paint, varnish, or varnish remover from their windows and doors. Using the wrong type of glove will lead to a chemical reaction which can leave your windows and doors looking unattractive and discoloured. The same thing goes when you attempt to wipe away smudges, streaks, and fingerprints. Gloves worn in the right way will eliminate smudges and ensure that your home improvement work is as effective as possible.
- One home improvement task that many homeowners neglect is repainting their windows and doors. Although many people know the benefits of painting their windows and doors, they are often not aware of the additional steps that should be taken before painting a window. First of all, you need to ensure that your windows and doors are clean on the inside. A streak free surface is ideal for painting and this means that you should never use an abrasive cleaner on your windows and doors.
- After cleaning your windows and doors, make sure to wipe them down with a wet cloth to remove any excess dirt, dust, and grime. Once your home improvement project is done, you should wipe the area around the window with a dry cloth to remove any residue left behind by the cleaner. Remember, never use abrasive cleaners on your windows and doors as this can cause scratching and marks to appear on your window and door surfaces.
- Once you have finished your home improvement project, you should always remember to allow your windows and doors to dry completely before replacing the protector.
In addition to the above mentioned home improvement tips, there are several other factors that must be considered when dealing with windows and doors.
- First of all, if your windows are cracked, you should repair the crack before trying to seal the area. A cracked window means that water can enter the house and potentially damage your appliances, your walls, and even your health! Thus, it is always recommended that you allow your home improvement company to do any windows or door maintenance work for you so that you can prevent this problem from arising in the future.
- Another important home improvement tip is to always have maintenance for your garage doors and patio doors. Both of these areas see a lot of traffic each day and therefore need to be kept in good condition. By following these tips, you can keep your home safe and secure and your family’s well being happy. Now that you know these simple home improvement tips, you should be able to maintain your doors and windows in top shape!
For more information about maintaining your home or to get professional advice and services, visit The Window Experts in Oakville.
Six ways to expand the lifespan of your windows
Cleaning the windows is essential for their appearance and your health, but there are many things that you can do so that the windows last for the longest time. Keep reading for the details.
1. Examine the caulking around windows
The sealant/caulking around the windows makes them watertight. If any part of the window sealant is broken, cracked, or entirely missing, you have to repair it immediately. Cracked window sealant won’t stop water seeping in and even minor leaks can cause severe damage. Check out the window caulking, especially when the risk for leaks is higher: in between windows and at the bottom corners of windows.
2. Check out the windows every year
When it comes to home maintenance, there are things you have to do once a year. Therefore, you should scrutinize the windows and find the imperfections. If you notice cracks, leaks, chipped paint, sealant breaks or cracks, issues with siding sashes, or turning window cranks, you need to solve them immediately.
Take time and see if there are leaks/incorrect drainage above/around vents and sprinkler systems that put windows to water exposure for a long time. We recommend you check out such issues after a big storm, especially if you suspect damage.
3. See if the wood finish starts losing its appearance
Wood windows offer many benefits and need maintenance more than fiberglass and vinyl windows. The wood finish isn’t only for a nice appearance, but also for protection against the elements. Ultraviolet rays of the sun can alter the finish and limit the protection.
Take time to examine the interior and exterior finish for peeling, cracking, and corrosion. Contact professionals for wood window maintenance if your wood windows require refinishing.
4. Examine the window fit
Even if your windows were installed correctly, they would no longer fit as in the beginning after some time. Changing temperatures, exposure to elements, and overall wear and tear from daily usage can slowly alter the size and shape of your windows and window frames. Additionally, houses settle in time, which limits the window openings.
A bad fit of the windows alters their performance. The energy efficiency decreases while water and air manage to enter the house. Carefully examine every part of the window to see if they still fit correctly. If your windows no longer lock/open/close all the way or have moisture, the window fit could be the main reason.
5. Clear and lubricate the window tracks
Debris and dirt can collect in the window tracks and stuck the windows. You have to remove dirt and debris from the window tracks as often as necessary. Use a dry brush to clean the tracks and help the windows close/open easily. Use plain old soap, water, and a brush to remove stuck grime.
When the windows are lubricated, they operate smoothly. Use oil-free lubricate when weather stripping your windows. Don’t use lubricants made with oil as they only attract grime and dust.
6. Step up your game if you live near the ocean
Salt is highly corrosive to many materials such as fiberglass, wood, and vinyl. If you live close to the ocean, your windows will wear and tear sooner than when not living close to the ocean. You have to examine your windows more than once a year. Also, clean the windows four times a year to get rid of the corrosive salt. A mild detergent and water will be enough to remove the salt build-up four times a year.
Doors require regular maintenance as well. Here are three ways to do it!
Similar to windows, doors also need regular maintenance to last and adequately operate for a long time. Here are some things to remember when taking care of your doors.
1. Regular cleaning
Clean the doors (both sides), especially if you live by the ocean. It’s the same if you live in a place with salt and moisture in the air. The door will keep its appearance and require painting or coating less often if you do it monthly.
You don’t need to make extra effort or buy expensive cleaning solutions for your doors. Dilute some dish soap/baby shampoo in warm water and use a sponge/lint-free cloth to scrub the door. This way, you will get rid of dirt and dust with no marks or scratches. Avoid discoloring and staining by cleaning any excess liquid.
2. Have a check out routine
Regular cleaning isn’t enough to keep the doors in good condition; you also need to have and follow a routine check. It’s essential to spot any damage in its early stages. Here are some things to look for:
Moisture
Whitish marks and dark streaks in the grain under a clear finish mean that moisture has built up. Should you not manage the moisture issue, it will rot the wooden door frame and blister the paintwork. Fix the problem the moment you discover it so that the moisture doesn’t spread and cause more damage to the door.
Timber frames
Examine the timber door frame from time to time. See if there are any cracks or problems that require repair work. While inspecting the frame, you can also tighten the hinge screws.
Finishing
Take a look at the door. The finish protecting the door has to be in good shape so that your door lasts for a long time. Cracked, faded, chipped, or peeling finishes are signs that the door needs recoating/refinishing. Do it if the door has a raised or dull surface.
3. Regular lubrication
When it comes to doors’ condition, nothing can replace correct lubrication. You always need to inspect the moving parts: rollers, hinges, and tracks. You need them to operate silently.
Keep in mind that you have to use the appropriate lubricant for your doors. The wrong products could damage the materials used for the door. Don’t forget to look at the locks; they can also collect rust, dirt or become defective in time.
Even if many of the problems are common for external doors, internal doors can also develop issues. They also need proper maintenance and care, so include them on your tasks list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you wash windows in shade or sun?
Direct sunlight will make the glass cleaner dry fast quickly and evaporate before you thoroughly wash the windows. You will get streaks that are difficult to buff out. It’s better to clean windows on cloudy days so that you don’t get stripes. Additionally, it’s easier to notice streaks on overcast skies.
Can you remove the streaks from windows?
Most of the time, the leftover residue from your commercial product causes the streaks on windows. Make a solution out of two cups of water, ½ teaspoon of dish detergent, and ¼ cup of white vinegar. Use it to remove the streaks and get sparklingly clean windows.
Is it possible to clean outside windows without wiping?
Use white vinegar, water, and dish detergent to make a solution in a bucket. Increase the amount as necessary. Get a soft bristle brush with an extension pole, dip it in the bucket, and scrub the solution on the windows. Work fast and spray/rinse it off with clean water before the solution dries.
Why are windows in the kitchen so dirty on the inside?
Steam and grease represent the leading causes for dirty windows, especially windows in the kitchen. Other particulates from cooking will also end up in the kitchen and build up. Removing the built-up dirt is difficult to remove, so stay on top with regularly cleaning the windows in the kitchen.
How do you care for wooden doors?
The most effective method to care for wood doors is to clean them twice a year with a damp cloth thoroughly. Add a mild and non-abrasive soap to warm water to remove the built-up dirt. Wash the door with water once it’s entirely dry.
