With proper care and maintenance, vinyl replacement windows can keep your home looking its best for up to 40 years!
It doesn’t take much… Set aside time every few months to keep your windows looking sharp and working well.
You’ll need the following supplies:
- Vacuum cleaner
- Soft scrub brush
- Microfiber cloths
- Spray bottle
- Gentle cleaning solution (e.g., mild soapy water)
- Silicone lubricant
- Glass cleaner (ammonia-free)
Here are the White Oak pro tips for extending the life of your vinyl windows!
Misuse damages windows over time, so make sure each member of the family understands the proper way to open, close and clean the windows.
Cleaning the glass regularly with a microfiber cloth and glass cleaner prevents build-up of dirt and grime that traps moisture and gives the window a cloudy appearance.
Cleaning the vinyl frames is as important as cleaning the glass! Start by removing the sash and vacuuming around the weatherstripping.
Clean the interior frames when you clean the glass by using a soft scrub brush and a mixture of mild soap and water. Rinse the cleaning solution off when finished by wiping down with a clean damp cloth. Exterior frames can be cleaned the same way, but less frequently… Never use a pressure washer, as it can break down the vinyl!
Build-up of dirt and debris in the track decreases your home’s energy efficiency and damages the windows hinges, locks, rollers and weatherstripping. It can even cause leaks!
Start by removing the sliding track and using a vacuum to clear out the track cavity. Wipe the track down with your soap and water solution and a microfiber cloth, then check the weep holes prior to re-installing it to make sure they’re clear so water can drain properly.
Cleaning the tracks before your frames and glass prevents your cleaning solution or glass cleaner from mixing with dirt and debris to create a sticky, hard-to-clean mess.
Windows have a number of moving parts that can prevent you from properly using and enjoying your windows.
Wipe the hardware down with a gentle soap and water solution and a microfiber cloth. Make sure to rinse well and dry before sparingly applying the silicone-based lubricant. This process can be repeated whenever you notice that the hardware isn’t working smoothly.
With a little TLC, your vinyl can be one of the best investments you make in your home!