Window Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
A home's windows impact the house's appearance and efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat transfer through windows accounts for 25% to 30% of HVAC energy use. Proper window care reduces this effect.
Benefits of Window Maintenance
As a homeowner, window maintenance offers many benefits, from financial savings to improved health.
Extends the life of the windows
Saves money on energy costs
Improves indoor air quality
Maintains desired indoor temperature
Enhances curb appeal
Investing in window upkeep is a wise decision. It also helps keep your home ready for an inspection.
Checklist of Window Maintenance
At Kenco Home Inspections, we love sharing tips on how to keep your home in top shape. Windows are often a forgotten home feature when it comes to regular maintenance. Yet, maintaining windows brings positive results.
Clean Windows Twice Each Year
For best results, clean windows twice each year. Clean inside and outside, including the tracks and screens. Clean windows improve indoor air quality by removing dust and dirt that enter the air in your home. Also, regular window cleaning maintains the quality of the window. Plus, clean windows make your home look great.
Insulate Windows with Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is an inexpensive way to insulate windows. Install weatherstripping or caulking around windows and doors to help prevent cold drafts and warm air from escaping. Heat transfer from air leaks adds to energy costs from your HVAC running more frequently.
Inspect Windows Annually
Check your windows each year to look for air leaks, functional issues, cracks, chips, and other problems. Repairing or replacing damaged windows prevents the problem from worsening. If you decide to sell your home, the buyer's home inspector will inspect each window.
Upgrade to Energy Efficient Windows
If it's time for new windows, upgrade to windows designed for improved energy efficiency. Low-E glass windows reduce solar heat gain. New windows add value to your home. They also offer instant savings on energy costs. Windows typically lasts around 20 years. If your home is older than 20 years, consider installing new windows.
DIY Versus Professional Window Care
Whether to do window maintenance yourself or hire a professional depends on the task, your budget, and your desire to do the work. For projects like adding weatherstripping or caulk, it's a simple DIY job. For window replacement, it's best to leave it to the professionals. Mistakes are too costly, both in a damaged window or personal injury.
Consider whether you have the time and equipment to do the job well and safely for intermediate tasks, like window cleaning. Either way, investing in home maintenance is a smart decision!
Keep Your Windows in Top Shape
Homebuyers notice well-cared-for homes. As home inspectors, we do too. Investing in home maintenance makes a huge difference when you get ready to sell a home. Plus, living in a clean and working house makes life easier and healthier for your family.
Kenco Home Inspections serves customers in Southeast Florida with effective home inspections. We offer a detailed written report to help you understand the home's condition, like issues with windows. Contact us today to schedule a home inspection!