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Now that you have gorgeous new replacement windows in your Michigan home, you will want to take steps to keep them that way. Windows made with Fibrex® do not require scraping and painting like natural wood windows, but there are still some maintenance tasks you can implement to reduce the risk of premature wear, dirt accumulation, and malfunctioning hardware as the windows age.
1. Vacuum the window crevices.
The crevices between the sash and the frame, and between the sash and the glass, are some of the hardest spots to keep clean. Dirt that accumulates here can collect moisture and become pretty caked on if you don’t address it regularly. Get into the habit of running your vacuum over the window crevices each time you vacuum. Use the wand attachment so you can get deep into each crevice. If you’ll be cleaning your windows, vacuum them first — removing the surface dust makes it easier to address any more caked-on grime.
2. Wash the windows with a squeegee.
Classic, blue window cleaner does an okay job of cleaning replacement windows, but if you want to do a stellar job, then you need to clean your windows like a pro. Gather a sponge, bucket, squeegee, a clean cloth, and some soapy water. (Dish soap works just fine.) Lather the soapy water onto the window, using just enough to wet the window without having it drip everywhere. Then, squeegee the window from left to right, starting at the top. Wipe the squeegee clean with your cloth after each stroke.
Since modern double-hung windows fold inward for easy cleaning, you can clean both the outside and inside of your windows in this manner — both from inside the home.
3. Lubricate moving parts.
Most window styles feature some moving parts, whether it’s the hinges on a casement window or the latching mechanisms on a double-hung window. It’s important to keep these parts lubricated so that the window does not squeak or get stuck as you open and close it. A couple of dabs of an all-purpose lubricant should do the trick. Open and close the window a couple of times after you apply it in order to work the lubricant into the material.
4. Avoid stripping, harsh cleansers.
A few times per year, you will want to wipe down the window sashes and frames to remove any caked-on dust. When you do this, make sure you use a mild cleanser, rather than anything abrasive. For example, scouring cleaners meant for the bathroom may damage the finish on your Fibrex windows. Dish soap and water is a safe bet, as is a mixture of vinegar and water.
5. Keep plants trimmed back.
If you have plants growing against your Michigan home, make sure you keep them adequately trimmed back so they do not rub up against the window frame. Branches from bushes and small trees could scrape a window frame. It’s best to trim bushes and trees in the late fall after they have lost their leaves, but early spring is not a bad time to trim, either.
If you follow the maintenance tips above, the replacement windows in your Michigan home should stay in great shape for years to come. If you still have older windows and are searching for replacements, contact Renewal by Andersen to schedule a free, in-home consultation.