Impact hurricane windows and doors are a valuable investment, offering protection against extreme weather conditions. To ensure they continue to provide safety and energy efficiency, proper maintenance is crucial. In this article, we’ll explore what maintenance is required for impact hurricane windows and doors and share expert tips to keep them in top shape.
Why Maintenance Matters
Regular maintenance is essential to preserve the functionality and appearance of impact hurricane windows and doors. These features are designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions, but over time, exposure to the elements can take a toll. Proper maintenance not only ensures their longevity but also guarantees their effectiveness in protecting your home during storms.
Cleaning and Care
1. Regular Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and salt deposits from the air can accumulate on the glass and frames. Cleaning your windows and doors regularly with mild detergent and water helps prevent these deposits from building up. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and avoid using abrasive materials that may scratch the glass or damage the frames.
2. Seal and Weather-stripping Check: Inspect the seals and weather-stripping for any signs of wear or damage. These components are crucial for maintaining the integrity of impact hurricane windows and doors. Replace any damaged or worn seals to ensure a tight seal and prevent air and water infiltration.
3. Lubrication: Hinges, locks, and other moving parts may benefit from occasional lubrication. Use a silicone based lubricant to keep these components functioning smoothly. Lubrication prevents sticking and ensures that the windows and doors open and close with ease.
Inspecting for Damage
1. Glass Inspection: Regularly check the glass for any chips, cracks, or damage. If you notice any issues, it’s essential to address them promptly. Impact-resistant glass is designed to withstand heavy forces, but if it becomes compromised, it may not provide the intended protection. Consider professional repairs or replacement if necessary.
2. Frame Examination: Inspect the frames for signs of damage or deterioration. Aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass frames are designed to be durable, but exposure to extreme weather can still take its toll. Look for corrosion, warping, or other issues that may affect the frames’ integrity.
3. Hardware Inspection: Hinges, locks, handles, and other hardware components should be regularly inspected. Check for any signs of wear, rust, or damage. Functional hardware is crucial for the proper operation of your windows and doors. Address any issues promptly to ensure smooth functionality.
Maintenance by Season
1. Winter Maintenance: In colder climates, it’s important to keep your impact hurricane windows and doors well-insulated to prevent heat loss. Check for any gaps or drafts around the frames and seals. Replace weather-stripping if necessary to maintain energy efficiency.
2. Summer Maintenance: In hot climates, focus on keeping your home cool and comfortable. Ensure that the seals and weather-stripping are in good condition to prevent warm air from infiltrating your home. Cleaning the glass and frames can also help reduce solar heat gain.
3. Fall Maintenance: Before the cold winter months, perform a thorough inspection of your windows and doors. Check for any drafts, damaged weather-stripping, or issues with the seals. Make sure the frames are in good condition and address any minor issues before they become significant problems.
4. Spring Maintenance: As spring arrives, it’s a good time to clean your windows and doors, especially if they’ve been exposed to winter weather. Remove any dirt, debris, or salt residue. Lubricate the moving parts, such as hinges and locks, to keep them functioning smoothly.
Professional Inspections
While homeowners can perform routine maintenance, it’s also wise to schedule professional inspections from time to time. Experienced technicians can identify issues that may not be immediately visible to the untrained eye. They can perform a comprehensive assessment of your impact hurricane windows and doors and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements.
Maintenance Tips for Frame Materials
The material of the frames in your impact hurricane windows and doors plays a significant role in their durability and maintenance requirements. Here are specific tips for each common frame material:
1. Aluminum Frames: These frames are known for their strength and resistance to corrosion. However, they can still be affected by salt deposits in coastal areas. Regular cleaning and occasional application of a corrosion resistant coating can help maintain their condition.
2. Vinyl Frames: Vinyl frames are low-maintenance and highly durable. They are less susceptible to corrosion but can accumulate dirt. Regular cleaning and inspecting the seals and weather-stripping are key maintenance tasks for vinyl frames.
3. Fiberglass Frames: Fiberglass frames offer exceptional strength and insulation properties. They are highly durable and require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and inspection of the seals are generally sufficient for fiberglass frames.
Maintenance Checklist
To help you maintain your impact hurricane windows and doors, here’s a comprehensive maintenance checklist:
Regular Cleaning: Clean your windows and doors with a mild detergent and water. Rinse thoroughly and avoid abrasive materials.
Seal and Weather-stripping Inspection: Check for wear or damage and replace as needed.
Lubrication: Lubricate hinges, locks, and other moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant.
Glass Inspection: Regularly examine the glass for any damage or compromise of its impact resistance.
Frame Examination: Inspect frames for signs of corrosion, warping, or damage.
Hardware Inspection: Check hardware components for wear, rust, or damage.
Seasonal Maintenance: Adjust your maintenance routine for different seasons to address specific concerns.
Professional Inspections: Schedule professional inspections to ensure a thorough assessment of your windows and doors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of impact hurricane windows and doors. Regular cleaning, inspection of seals, lubrication of moving parts, and periodic professional inspections are all vital aspects of maintaining these protective features. By following these maintenance tips and addressing any issues promptly, you can rest assured that your impact hurricane windows and doors will continue to provide the protection and energy efficiency your home needs.
Remember that well-maintained impact hurricane windows and doors not only safeguard your property during storms but also offer long-term cost savings and peace of mind. Make maintenance a part of your routine to enjoy the full benefits of these valuable investments.
