Why You Shouldn’t Overlook Windows

We all know the saying, “Eyes are the windows to the soul.” But what about the windows of your house? They can actually say a lot about your home. Not only do they take up quite a bit of surface area on your home, but they are also responsible for letting light into your house, warming it in the winter months and brightening it up in the spring and summer. So what’s the deal with windows? Read on for tips on how you can make the most out of your home’s windows.

Clean Up Your Act

Few things can put a damper on your home’s curb appeal faster than dingy windows. Sometimes, all it takes for your windows to look brand new again is a good cleaning. Ideally, you should be cleaning your windows twice a year. With larger-paned windows, use a strip applicator soaked in warm water and a squirt of dishwashing liquid to scrub the outside of windows. Wipe the windows clean with a squeegee, and then dry off any remaining water on the edges with a damp, wrung-dry chamois (a tip from www.thisoldhouse.com).

If you have multi-pane windows, a handheld sponge should do the trick. And for the inside of windows, a microfiber cloth and a spritz of Windex should be all you need to get them shining again.

Repair or Replace?

You should periodically examine your windows for rot, jammed sashes, or broken parts. If water has penetrated around the window frames, the windows need to be removed and repaired before they begin to rot.

Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to replace your windows. If you’re unsure, call in a professional and have them take a look.

There is also the matter of windows that came with the house that just may not suit your style. If you are thinking about replacing your windows simply because they clash with your home’s aesthetic, ask yourself this: will new windows really add to the new style of the home, or will they take away from it? Replacing windows, especially ones with stained or leaded glass or certain unique decorative aspects, can actually lower your home’s value. So don’t replace your windows unless you’re absolutely sure about your decision.

Energy Savings

Installing energy efficient windows in your home can provide you with major energy and cost savings. Non-energy efficient windows can cause unwanted heat loss or gain and condensation problems, while efficient windows can stop air leakage, improve your family’s comfort, and also save you money in the long run. Talk to a contractor you trust about making your windows energy efficient and see what your options are.

Windows are an integral part of a house. By not overlooking them in your home improvement, you can allow them to play an important role in adding style and functionality to your home. For more help with windows, roofing, or siding, contact us today.