Taking care of your vinyl windows will save you time and money down the road. So, it is necessary to take a little bit of time each year to do some at-home inspections for any cracks, damages, or leaks. At-home maintenance for vinyl windows is relatively minute; but, you will need to perform a few tasks, periodically, in order to ensure you achieve the longest “life” out of them.

The professionals here at NuView Windows have created this guide just for you and your San Clemente, CA, home. We want you to get the most out of your windows, whether they were manufactured and installed by our team or not. And, should you come across a problem you do not feel fully qualified to address alone—give us a call.

Your Quick Guide to Vinyl Window Inspections:

The insect screen: This is an important part of keeping a good-looking and functional window in top shape.

1. What to look for:

• Holes
• Scratches
• Cuts
• Looseness—tighten any loose screws

2. Replace or repair any damaged screen
3. Maintenance:

• Clean the tracks with a vacuum as needed
• During colder months, retract any screens which can be retracted
• Lightly lubricate tracks with silicon spray, as needed (keyword: lightly)

4. Remove dirt:

• First, remove the screen
• Remove dirt with a soft bristle brush (soap and water added, if necessary) ‘
• Rinse clean and reinstall when dry

Sash / Pane inspection: This is especially important in coastal areas—suggested more frequently. If your window has a removable sash, consider removing it for a complete inspection.

1. Operation:

• Check hardware for proper function (cracks, locks, etc.)
• Open/close the window to check for resistance in either direction

2. Glass:

• Diligently inspect for any cracks in the glass (a small crack can quickly grow and is a compromise to your safety)
• Check for moisture or fogging between panes (usually visible most easily in the mornings)—this could indicate a worn or improperly working seal

Weather-stripping: Keeping a good eye on your weather-stripping can help you to avoid expensive structural damages to your home from energy loss and water leakage. Compromised weather-stripping must be replaced immediately.

1. Unfit weather-stripping—how to know:

• Missing
• Cracked
• Brittle
• Discolored
• No “bounce”
• Torn

2. How to clean:

• Damp cloth with a mild soap and water
• Rinse and dry, repeat as needed

3. How to repair (if you feel qualified to do so):

• Remove weather-stripping, carefully
• Apply a thin layer of silicone sealant to the edge from where old strip was removed
• Reinstall new stripping
• Hold in place with painter’s tape for 24 hours

For more tips like these, come visit us here at NuView Windows. We can’t wait to meet you!

For details, you can check San Clemente vinyl windows.

NuView Windows | 24378 Swartz Drive, Lake Forest, CA 92630 | Phone: (949) 855-0130