Winter Window Maintenance Ideas

Windows are a part of your home and while they will work nicely without much attention, there are a few things you might want to do over the winter months that can help your Portland, OR replacement windows last longer and hold up well, even in the cold weather. Here are a few things you might want to do.

Check For Damage

There are a variety of things that can happen to windows, either old or new, over the winter months. It’s nice to know your windows well so you will recognize and notice when things change. Check the windows often so you can see changes and take note of any damage. Look them over with care every now and then, but also make sure you inspect them closely after an ice storm, a big snow, or super cold temperatures.

Wash Above Freezing

Your windows are going to get dirty in the winter months, and you might be tempted to wipe them down and wash them off. That’s something that can be done any time of the year, but you don’t want to wash them outside if the temperature is below freezing. Any water or other things you put on the windows can freeze, which could cause the windows to crack or damage to occur on the frames.

Dry The Frames

When you notice snow, ice melting, and other such things, you might want to take a dry rag and run it around the window frames to dry them off. This is especially true if you have wood windows. Those windows are susceptible to rot and things can get warped, too, if water gets into the wood. With any luck, the wood has been treated at the right time of the year and those seals will hold, but drying the frames off can’t hurt.

Check Weather Stripping And Caulk

The weather stripping and caulk around your windows can go through a lot in the winter as well. One little crack could take in some water, which could freeze and thaw, causing more cracking and other issues. Check on the weather stripping and caulk as the winter goes on and run repairs where you need to. You can also identify windows that have areas that are getting worn out so you can replace that when the weather gets to the right temperature.

There are other things you might want to do to your windows as the winter rages on. You can clean the windows on the inside at any time without consequence. That can help you to see the outside world, which can help you to identify other issues that might arise on your windows.

If you are trying to figure out what you might want to do for your windows this winter, the professionals can give you ideas and advice. Even if you got Portland, OR replacement windows years ago, the experts are still there to help. They will talk to you by phone, or in person if you want to stop by.