Knowing how to maintain your wood windows can save you a lot of time, heartache, and money. Wooden windows have a classic look, but it’s no secret that they need more TLC and maintenance than vinyl or fiberglass windows.
That doesn’t mean you should give up the look you love. It just means you need to choose a professional company to install high-quality windows and learn how to look after them.
Why It’s Important To Maintain Your Wood Windows
Maintaining wood windows is crucial for preserving their appearance, functionality, longevity and maintaining factory window warranties. Well-maintained wood windows retain their structural integrity. This is essential to keep your windows working. Windows that work are also crucial to your home’s energy efficiency.
Wood windows are an investment in your home’s value and aesthetics. Regular maintenance protects this investment by preventing premature deterioration and the need for costly repairs or window replacements.
How To Maintain Your Wood Windows
Looking after your windows improves their longevity, appearance, and performance, so some regular care and elbow grease are worth the effort.
Regular Cleaning
Remove dirt, dust, and debris from your windows using a soft, damp cloth. Steer clear of abrasive materials that can damage the finish and protective coating.
It’s also important that you keep the window tracks clean. The channels and tracks where the window sashes slide can collect dirt. Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove built-up dirt and debris. Lubricating the tracks with a silicone-based lubricant can help keep them working well.
Inspect For Damage
Your windows are a system; one damaged part can compromise the whole thing. Check the frames, sills, and sashes for deterioration or weak spots. If your windows have moisture damage, you may notice cracks, peeling paint, and wood rot. It’s vital that you repair the damage as quickly as possible.
Moisture damage often happens when the caulking and weather stripping have failed. Damaged caulking affects your home’s insulation and leaves your windows susceptible to moisture damage. If you regularly inspect your caulking, it’s easy to repair damaged sections.
If you’re worried about your windows, hire a professional company to look at them. Historic or intricate wood windows can be especially tricky to maintain, and a professional company can really help.
Re-Paint, Seal, or Stain
Peeling paint is an obvious sign of moisture damage or general wear and tear. Keeping the coating on your windows in tip-top shape is a simple way to protect them from moisture and UV rays. Prepare the surface by cleaning and sanding the window before applying a high-quality exterior paint, sealant, or wood stain.
Are Wood Windows Worth It?
Whether wood windows are worth it depends on various factors, including your preferences, budget, the architectural style of your home, and your willingness to invest time and effort in maintenance.
Wood windows are popular for their natural beauty and warmth. They can increase the value of your home by providing a classic and timeless look. Wood is also a natural insulator, providing good thermal performance. Maintaining your wood windows contributes to your home’s energy efficiency by helping regulate indoor temperatures and reducing heat transfer.
Although they require regular maintenance, wood windows are generally more repairable than other materials. You can fix minor issues such as scratches, dents, or even some types of rot fairly easily without replacing the entire window.
Kentucky Home Exteriors: #1 Rated Kentucky Window Company
Maintaining your windows is easier if they have been professionally installed. Quality windows installed well need less work to function effectively. We pride ourselves on using industry-leading windows installed according to the manufacturers’ guidelines.
If you have questions about how best to maintain your wood windows, contact us for a free consultation.
