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WINDOWS
Windows come in all sizes and shapes
and provide light, ventilation glare
control, and thermal comfort.
Glass in windows can be single-pane
or double-pane, clear colored, or
frosted.
Frames can be made of wood, metal,
vinyl or a combination of materials.
Some windows are operable and some are for aesthetic purposes
only.
Broken Glass
Repair broken glass as quickly as possible to prevent energy loss
and air infiltration.
It is recommended that a professional glass company reglaze
(replace the glass).
Condensation
Condensation forms on the glass as a result of high humidity
within your home and low temperatures outside. It is a common
occurrence and doesn't necessarily indicate a defect in the
window. However, continual condensation can damage the frame
and woodwork surrounding your window.
If you use a humidifier, follow the manufacturer's instructions
closely. The humidity level within the home is largely controlled by
your family's lifestyle.
Weather Stripping
Check your weather stripping on a regular basis to make sure the
seal is secure and not worn. Replace as necessary.
Weather stripping guards against the elements, heat and air
conditioning loss, and cuts down on condensation.
Unusually heavy or driving rains may cause minor seepage at the
bottom of a window.
Caulking
Regularly check window and door frames for deterioration of
caulking.
Caulk cracks to prevent moisture damage to the window.
Sticking
If a window sticks, or requires excessive force to open or close it,
rub the channel with a piece of paraffin or candle wax.
It can also be sprayed with a non-oil lubricant or a silicone
lubricant.
Hardware
As needed, check your window hardware to make sure it works
properly.
Windows should lock securely for security and protection from the
elements.
Over time, the springs inside a window track may lose some
tension, causing the top sash to slide down when the window is
unlocked.
To correct the tension, remove the sash and tighten the
adjustment screw.
All wood window parts that do not have a vinyl cladding and are
exposed to the elements should be repainted or a wood
preservative used to protect them from moisture damage on a
regular basis.
Wood frames should be painted when the house trim is painted.
The joints where the sides of the window frame meet the glass
need particular attention.
Treat wood storm windows the same as regular wood windows.
Aluminum, vinyl-clad wood, and vinyl windows do not need
painting but may need cleaning.
Some air infiltration around windows is normal, especially during
times of high winds.
Clean windows on a regular basis including the frames. Keep
bottom window channels and weep holes free of dirt and debris.
Lightly soiled glass can be cleaned with a commercial cleaner
containing ammonia, or with one-cup vinegar to a gallon of warm
water.
Heavily soiled glass can be cleaned with a solution of 1 tablespoon
household ammonia to a quart of warm water.
Aluminum frames around a skylight can be cleaned with warm
water.
If the skylight has a painted metal finish, check it annually,
touching up any bare spots with paint recommended by the
manufacturer.
To clean a plastic skylight, follow the manufacturer's directions.
Be careful not to bend frames or perforated screen when removing
screens for cleaning or storing.
Label each screen when it is removed.
Clean screens with a soft-bristle brush, sudsy cleanser and warm
water.
Rinse with a light spray from the garden hose, then let dry.
Oxidation on aluminum screens can be cleaned with a light rub of
steel wool.
Coat the frames with household wax to keep them clean and shiny.
