Your Guide to California Window Maintenance
Whether you're looking to get more out of your existing windows or new replacement windows are on the horizon and you want to get started right, window maintenance can help you get more life out of your home's windows, providing reliable operation and function for years to come.
In California, window maintenance is slightly different from the rest of the country, mainly due to a lack of water and rain throughout the year. However, dryness and a healthy dose of sun through a majority of the year can lead to cracking, splitting and other issues that may reduce your windows' efficiency and ability to keep the elements out and to keep the inside comfortable.
In fact, up to 40 percent of your home's energy efficiency is a function of your home's windows, and if you have a houseful of old and cracking windows you could be spending a small fortune each month just to keep up with the energy demands of being in The Golden State. The good news is that with just a few California window maintenance tips, you can protect your home's windows from decay and prevent more of your money flying out the window.
How Long Do Windows Last?
While most California homeowners don't give a second thought to their windows as long as they're not an eyesore, it's true that windows don't last forever. Aluminum or aluminum clad windows tend to last 15 to 20 years; double-pane windows last about eight to 20 years; skylights last about 10 to 20 years; and window glazing lasts about a decade.
Even the most long-lasting windows, such as vinyl or wood, won't give you more than 20 to 40 years (vinyl) or 30+ years (wood), so odds are the windows in your home are closer to needing replacement.
California Window Maintenance Tips
The first order of business when conducting window maintenance on a California home is to actually look at your windows, both inside and out. Pay close attention to rotting, chipping and cracking, which are the tell-tale signs of window damage. While a hairline crack may look insufficient to be a problem, water, air and harmful UV rays can do their worst damage behind the scenes, allowing openings to develop that will eventually lead to window replacement.
In addition to cracks and other deterioration, look for discoloration and other signs of water damage that can tell you whether your windows are still leak-proof. Even the smallest leak can turn into a big problem if left unaddressed for long enough, so if you find any of these signs, be sure to contact a reputable window repair or replacement company to assess the damage and determine what the best course of action is.
If you have the know-how and some free time, you can try to seal your home's windows yourself. Armed with proper window sealant, go around to each window in your home (inside and outside) and plug any cracks, openings or gaps that you see. Larger gaps may need insulating tape or another approach, but you should be able to take care of most California window maintenance issues with a tube of caulk.
During this exercise, if you encounter any fogginess or condensation in your windows, you're likely dealing with windows that have lost their seal, allowing both moisture and air in. Though double-paned windows often last a decade or two, harsh conditions can make short work of your windows. A common work-around is to use a desiccant, such as silica, to dry up the moisture, but be careful of introducing haziness, which is a common side effect.
Don't Forget About Your Doors
Beyond your home's windows, you'll also want to take a look at your home's doors. While most doors will likely have some kind of covering that protects them from the elements, they won't last forever, especially if you're not conducting any kind of regular maintenance. Dryness, moisture and sun can all warp the frames and doors that shield your home from the outside world, creating drafty gaps and other problems as they're continuously exposed to the elements.
By engaging in California window maintenance as well as monitoring your home's doors, you'll be able to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter without sending your climate control into overdrive. After all, a door can present all the problems of a drafty window while also being the main way you get in and out of your home, further exacerbating climate control swings indoors.
Work With the Best: Brothers Home Improvement Windows & Doors
If your California window maintenance has led to you to discover problems with your home's existing windows, call the experts at Brothers Home Improvement Windows & Doors. We have the know-how and experience to diagnose any window or door issue, and we'll work with you to determine the right course of action for your budget and concerns. Call us today to schedule a free consultation and get the peace of mind that you can only get by hiring the best.
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