Your windows are exposed to elements like wind, rain, and pollution every single day. These cause accumulated dirt. While dirt should not be able to damage your windows, cleaning them will certainly help prolong their life and keep them looking their best, too.
Self-cleaning glass of course will be the easiest to maintain and normally, exposure to sun and rain will be enough to clean the external panes. In case rainfalls are scarce, then you can hose it down. If there are any tough stains to remove, a soft cloth dipped in soapy water would be sufficient. If not, then a non-abrasive glass cleaner can be used too.
For standard glass, you can just use a soft cloth with washing-up liquid or water and soap to clean the surface. Tougher stains might require the use of commercial window cleaning solutions. Do not forget to wash away any residue with clean water.
Catches, restrictors, and hinges would need some lubrication in time.You can use light machine oil for this, but not any other kind of oil or grease. Of course if the moving parts are plastic, you should never try to lubricate them.
Of course, protecting the frames is just as important as cleaning the glass surface itself. You can vacuum dust and any debris from the sill or track before washing. For the frames themselves, just use mild dish-soap with water. Rinse thoroughly. If there are weep holes that you think are blocked, you can use a small bottle brush. Make sure that your windowsill or track is free from any debris or soil as this will encourage draining.
You can also check the weather stripping around your window sash just to make sure that properly seals around the whole perimeter.
If you notice window condensation or fogging, you can try to ventilate the interior of your home by opening doors and windows for a short time to allow interior moisture to escape. Exhaust fans can be used for a longer period too, especially when you are showering. Use your ceiling fans to help circulate the air. Crawl space louvers in your basement or attic should be opened. You can also opt to install a dehumidifier.
Cleaning your windows to keep them in tiptop shape may seem tedious. But if you have a simple routine that you follow on a regular basis, maintaining the pristine shape of your windows will not be that difficult. Remember that a well-maintained window not only looks good but more importantly, performs its best and keep your family safe at all times.
