Fall Maintenance Tips for Windows and Doors: Boost Efficiency Before Winter

Winter is coming fast! In Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, this season brings freezing temperatures, ice, and snow. Now is the time to consider ways to boost your home’s efficiency to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Taking steps to weatherize and repair your home can help you stay warmer throughout the winter.

Clean Moving Parts and Sills

Dirt and debris can clog window sills and tracks, making them harder to open and close. Regular cleaning helps ensure smoother functioning and optimal energy efficiency. Clean your window tracks with a dry brush first to loosen debris, then remove the debris with a vacuum. Wipe down the tracks with a damp microfiber cloth, and repeat if necessary.

Apply Fresh Sealant

Caulk helps seal windows and can improve your home’s energy efficiency. Early fall is the best time to recaulk windows and doors, especially on parts of the house that are regularly exposed to sunlight and harsh weather.

Inspect caulking for cracks and missing parts. Remove old, damaged caulk with a caulk remover, then apply new caulking when you’re ready. Be careful to install exterior-grade caulking on exterior parts of the house, and interior-grade caulking on interior parts of the house.

Install Shades or Blinds for Insulation

Blinds and shades help trap heat indoors in the winter months, especially if your home’s windows are old and drafty. Install no-drill, snap-in blinds for ease and efficiency. This simple upgrade boosts comfort and efficiency quickly and effectively.

Repair or Replace Damaged Walls

Cracked and rotted wood creates air and moisture leaks. Inspect your windows for signs of deterioration and repair or replace damaged parts. You may need a handyman or a contractor for this, to ensure the work is done correctly. Doing the work right also helps ensure the repair will last.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors

Old single-pane windows and poorly-fitting exterior doors can drive up heating costs in winter. If you’re ready to take on a home remodel, consider upgrading your windows and doors to improve energy efficiency. Double-pane windows and fiberglass doors can prevent heat loss throughout the winter, reducing your bills and improving your year-round comfort.

Even if you have double-pane windows already, if they’re more than 20 years old, they may need to be replaced. Signs that it’s time to replace your windows include:

• Noticeable drafts
• Condensation inside multi-pane glass (this indicates the seals in the glazing are failing)
• Rising energy bills

If you’re not ready for this type of investment, install weather stripping around your windows and doors. Do this annually, as most weather stripping only lasts for one or two years before it needs replacement.

Maintain Your Windows With a Window Cleaner You Can Trust

It’s possible to maintain beautiful windows throughout the year with a window cleaner you can trust. This is why many people turn to United Window Cleaning for their annual window cleaning. To get your windows clean and sparkling before winter comes, contact United Window Cleaning today.