Extending the Lifespan of Your Windows: A Sustainable Approach to Home Maintenance
Living sustainably can take many shapes and forms. For instance, you can reduce home maintenance expenses and energy consumption by simply taking really good care of your doors and windows.
By keeping up with cleaning, repairs, and maintenance, you can extend lifespans, reduce waste, and save yourself some serious cash.
Think of it this way: every time you avoid tossing out a perfectly good window because of a squeaky sash or a cracked frame, you’re lowering demand for new materials, cutting down landfill, and dialing back your carbon footprint. Now, that’s living sustainably!
So, let’s see what you can do to keep those windows in tip-top shape for as long as possible.
1. Clean Like a Professional
Dirt, grime, and dust might seem harmless, but over time, they can wear down glass and frames, making your windows less efficient and more prone to leaks and cracks.
Regular cleaning removes buildup that can trap moisture, promote mold growth, or even cause corrosion, especially if you live in a city. Plus, clean windows let in more natural light, which can boost your mood and trim your electricity bill.
To get the best results, skip harsh chemicals that eat away at frames, and opt for gentle, eco-friendly cleaners or just warm water and mild soap. Also, use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratches.
Extra tip: Don’t forget the frames and tracks. Dirt in these spots can jam moving parts and cause wear. Also, while cleaning, inspect seals and weatherstripping for cracks or gaps.
2. Repair, Don’t Replace
Like anything else around the house, your windows will suffer some wear and tear over the years. This will happen even if you’re extra meticulous with the cleaning, but it doesn’t mean you have to throw the whole thing away.
All you have to do is identify the culprit and buy the window parts needed to replace them. The most common parts that give up are the sash balances, corner clips, glazing putty, and the weatherstripping. Without them, your windows will creak, they may not close properly, and you may start to feel a breeze inside the house.
But everything can be solved by replacing the faulty parts. Plus, it’s not even that costly. In fact, many of these parts are DIY-friendly to replace with a bit of YouTube guidance and basic tools. If not, a quick call to a local window repair pro can still save you a bundle compared to a full replacement.
3. Frame Care
The window frames are a bit more special because if they start to sag, warp, or rot, no amount of cleaning or repairs will save you from costly replacements. This is why it’s essential to learn how to keep your frames in shape based on the material they’re made from.
For instance, wood frames need a lot of love to stay rot-free. Inspect them for cracks, chips, or peeling paint. Seal and repaint every few years to protect against moisture and fill any minor cracks with wood filler before they become full-blown problems.
Vinyl frames, on the other hand, are a lot easier to maintain. Just clean them with warm soapy water and keep the tracks free of dirt and debris. Lubricate moving parts occasionally with silicone spray to keep everything sliding smoothly.
If you have aluminum frames, watch out for dents and scratches that can compromise the protective coating. Clean with mild detergent and water, and consider touch-up paint for exposed areas to prevent corrosion.
In Summary
Small, consistent window care is the best way to avoid costly and unnecessary repairs. By cleaning, repairing, and protecting your windows, you extend their life, save money, reduce waste, and shrink your carbon footprint. Plus, durable windows mean a greener home and a smarter investment.