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Windows For Lafayette Homeowners That Are So Easy To Operate, People Call Them Maintenance Free

Won't Need Paint - EVER (That's What We Call Maintenance Free!)

Are “maintenance-free” windows really maintenance-free? Most thermal replacement windows are made of wood, vinyl, or a combination of the two. Vinyl windows require no painting inside or out, therefore eliminating the need to paint windows. By switching to maintenance free vinyl windows, you could save significantly on your painting bills. Of course, vinyl windows still have to be cleaned, so they are not completely maintenance free. This exposes another issue that most replacement window dealers don’t tell you or want you to know.

Replacing your windows with new vinyl windows delivers large savings in maintenance costs and convenience, because newer windows don’t require the maintenance and upkeep of older wood or aluminum windows.

Care of Your Windows

Glass

To clean your windows with typical glass, simply use a glass cleaner and a soft cloth. One or both sashes tilt in, to make cleaning the glass a breeze.  No more climbing on ladders to make the windows sparkle!

Cleaning Your Window Frames

Keeping your windows clean means more than just the glass. Here are some helpful tips for cleaning the PVC frames and sashes of your windows effectively without damaging them.

• Clean window and doorframes with a mixture of mild dish soap* and water.
• Abrasive or caustic cleaners or solvents are never recommended because they might cause permanent damage to the frame finish.
• Mild, nonabrasive soaps* are usually safest for most dirt and stain removal.
• Always rinse completely with clear water and wipe dry.
• Check to make certain that drainage or "weep" holes are always clear of dirt and obstructions - both inside and outside the window or door in the bottom of the frame. NOTE: If the window is "stacked", there may be weep holes between the units.

We recommend that you use a mild dish soap. Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous area first.

Smooth Window Operation

To ensure that your windows open, close, lock and unlock easily for years to come, follow these helpful maintenance tips to keep your windows and doors operating smoothly.

• Moving parts in hardware components and tracks and rollers can be lubricated periodically in accordance with the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. Salt-air environments may require more frequent care.
• Check weather stripping around operable window and door panels and be sure it seals evenly.
• On sliding doors and windows, make certain track area is kept clean.
• Adjust sliding door rollers for proper height clearances. Remove the caps over the access holes on the exterior of the door. Use a Phillips screwdriver to adjust the rollers manually. The best way to begin is to turn the screw all the way to the left to even the rollers. As you adjust, you will feel the screw "click" with each turn.

Window Drainage Systems

Windows and doors often have a simple drainage system that work to maintain proper ventilation and prevent buildup of water. These drainage pathways must be kept clear and clean for the window or door to operate correctly. It is normal for water to accumulate in the sill or track area with wind driven rain. The water is intended to drain to the outside as water builds up or outside pressure subsides.

• Keep sill or track areas clean of dirt and debris.
• Make sure that outside and inside "weep" holes and sill area are kept clear of any dirt, stucco, sand or building materials.
• Use a small, soft bottlebrush to clear openings.

Key Do's and Don'ts

DO: Clean the frame surfaces.

DON'T: Use a razor blade, putty knife or abrasive pad.

DO: Use a glass cleaner or mild detergent.

DON'T: Use any petroleum-based cleaners or solvents.
DO: Clean tracks and weep holes.

DON'T: Use oil-based lubricants or damage weep hole covers/baffles.
DO: Check weather stripping and hardware.

DON'T: Live with poor performing components.
DO: Clean your insulating glass with proper cleaning agents.

DON'T: Add attachments to window or glass without approval from the window manufacturer. 

DO: Choose certified windows and exterior glass doors.

DON'T: Settle for products that do not meet important air, water, structural, forced entry and thermal performance standards.