One of the most common types of windows available on the market is vinyl windows. Vinyl windows are known for their durability and for how long they last. In comparison to the other types of windows on the market, you'll get a longer lifespan out of vinyl windows with much less maintenance. If you go with wood windows, you'll be having to stain them and paint them on a routine basis because they aren't as resistant to the elements in the same way that vinyl windows are. Looking for reliable window companies in Edmonton can go a long way in making sure you'll be getting good vinyl windows that will last well into the future.
Caring For Your Vinyl Windows
Around every once a year, you'll want to inspect your windows and make sure that everything is working how it should be. You'll also want to check to see how your window screens are doing on a routine basis. Take a look to see if there are any holes beginning to start and also make sure that you're tightening up the screws that are holding the screens in place. Another thing to check is how your windows screens are functioning. If you notice them getting jammed up and not able to slide back and forth as easily as they should be, you'll want to address that issue before it progresses into something worse.
Getting an issue resolved sooner than later is always a good way to prevent increased maintenance costs further down the road. If, after testing out your window screens, you keep finding them getting jammed up, consider bringing out the vacuum to clean out the tracks. After that, spray some lubricant into the tracks. The easiest way to clean out your window screens if by just bringing them into the shower and giving them a good scrub with a brush.
Inspect The Glass And The Sashes
After you're done inspecting your window screens, move along and inspect your windows for cracks. Start with the horizontal strips and then move to the vertical stripes that are securely holding the glass in place. You'll also want to check to see if there are any cracks in the glass panes. If you find your glass getting foggy even after you've tried wiping your windows down, then there is a chance that it is caused by a seal on your window that is no longer airtight. An airtight window seal is a huge factor in ensuring your windows are energy-efficient. Worn-out window seals will cause cold air to get into your home and your energy bills won't be as good from month to month.
Weatherstripping
You'll also want to inspect the weatherstripping on your windows. Weatherstripping is the material that fuses the joints of your window frame. Weatherstripping should never be cracked or gummed up.
Drainage
As you're inspecting your windows, look to see if any water buildup has occurred on the window sill. Windows come with weep holes built into them, and if the weep holes are not able to drain water properly, you'll run into issues with mold.
Cleaning
One of the nicest things about vinyl windows is how easy they are to clean. In most cases, you won't need more than a wet cloth to clean vinyl windows. This wouldn't be the case for other types of windows, such as wood ones. If you're looking for a mixture to clean your windows with, consider mixing a teaspoon of shampoo with around 4 liters of water. This gentle mixture can then be used on your vinyl windows with a sponge. After you're done wiping the windows with the sponge, all you have to do is wipe the window clean afterward.
Functionality
No one wants to be getting frustrated while doing something as simple as trying to open your windows. There are a lot of moving parts in windows, and they should always be smooth and seamless. If you find that your windows aren't sliding open as well as they should be, you might have to apply some lubricant to the track to get the windows functioning properly again.
Window lubricants can be purchased at any local hardware store. Before using a lubricant, check with the manufacturer and see what kind of lubricant they recommend. In addition, you'll want to make sure that the window hardware is nice and clean before applying lubricant.
Following these few tips should keep your vinyl windows functioning nicely for years.
What Are Some Benefits Of Vinyl Windows?
Vinyl windows are energy efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and don't require a lot of maintenance to keep them looking good. Vinyl window material has largely replaced other window materials such as:
- Wood
- Steel
- Aluminum
Aesthetic Appeal
No matter what type of home you live in, vinyl windows make a home looking new again. Vinyl windows are an effective way of keeping a home appearing clean and tidy because of their crisp and clean lines. If you're wanting to increase the resale value of your home, considering vinyl windows is a good option to go with.
In many older homes, you'll see that wood is quite commonly used for window frames, and this can make the home appear a little outdated. A simple vinyl window installation can go a long way in making your home look more updated.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is one of the biggest reasons why people will get vinyl windows installed in their homes. During the cold months of the year, vinyl windows will keep the warm air inside your home while keeping the cold air out. In addition, new vinyl windows will also keep the heat outside during the summer and the cool air inside. This will keep your energy bills lower from month to month. Looking even further, vinyl windows will cause less work for your furnace and air conditioner because they won't always have to be compensating for the elements getting into your home.
