Enhancing Double Hung Windows: Tips for Homeowners

Part 1: Choosing the Right Colors and Finishes

Double hung windows have a classic appeal that never gets old. Aside from an appearance that can suit any home style, they are also loved for being versatile, easy to clean, and energy efficient. With all their benefits, it is not surprising that you also have them in your own home.

While double hung windows themselves are already pretty, there are still ways for you to enhance them, enabling you to maximize their aesthetic advantages.

Just like in any other home improvement project, choosing the right colors and finishes for your windows will greatly affect how they will look when installed in your home. Generally, you would want to make your windows complement your home’s color theme, but you may also consider making the windows stand out instead. Whatever your decision is, here are some tips on how to choose the right colors and finishes for your double hung windows.

Colors

Color plays a crucial role in making or breaking the look of a house’s element. When choosing a color for windows there are two things to consider, the frame, mullions, and accent colors.

Window frame and mullions

Depending on the color and architectural style of your home, you may opt for frames and mullions that lend color to your home’s exterior. For instance, you may wish to choose a color similar to your roof or at least, the roof trim. If you have a contemporary-style home, go for neutral colors.

Furthermore, if you have a room that overlooks a beautiful landscape, consider painting the mullions black, as this will create the illusion of continuity.

Accent Colors

Your windows can be effectively used as a way to accentuate parts of your home when looked upon from the outside. While choosing an exterior color palette can be challenging, it is definitely doable. You can try checking out your neighbors’ homes to see what colors are already present. You may also choose a darker or a more noticeable shade for your windows to make them pop.

Finishes

Today’s products come in a variety of finishes. Renewal by Andersen replacement windows, for instance, come in both standard and special finishes, from the simple white and canvas to brushed and polished chrome and antique brass, among others. Basically, you need a finish that will match your home — if your house follows modern architecture, you may opt for more finishes that are metallic while a traditional home can do well with wooden-like textures.

Part 2: Ideal Window Treatments

Decorating windows may seem easy — just hang a pair of drapes and you’re done…not. Selecting window treatments depend largely on the type, style, and shape of the window. Window treatments are also not meant to overpower the look of your window (which, if you forget, you spent a lot of time and effort choosing) or block the light and stunning views outside.

However, window treatments can greatly enhance the look of both your windows and the room where they are installed as long as they are carefully chosen. Here are some of the options you can choose from, and tips that you must keep in mind when scouting for the ideal window treatments for your double hung windows.

Curtains and Valance

Having a generally traditional look and feel, double hung windows can be best complemented by similarly traditional curtains. As curtains come in a variety of colors, textures, and patterns, it will be easier for you to find a pair that will complement and add dimension to the room.

For a casual look, you can opt for short curtains while for a more formal and grand appeal, a floor-length curtain will do great. You can also decorate your double hung window with a valance.

Roman Shades

If you are after a less formal look, Roman shades may be a better option. As they have a simple, more streamlined look that works well with modern decor and contemporary themes, they can easily blend in. Roman shades also come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and materials.

Swags

To unify double hung windows that are installed side-by-side, you can use asymmetric swags draped across the top of each window, cascading down the outer window edges. If you find this too exposing, you can add layer sheers under the decorative swags for some privacy.

Panels

Pleated panels, cascading panels, and panels on rings can also make for a relaxed and unpretentious look, providing privacy and allowing just the right amount of sunlight when you want it in your room.

Part 3: Care Essentials to Maintain Form and Function

How you care for your windows plays a crucial part in maintaining its form, function, and appeal. Furthermore, different windows may require different care and maintenance measures. Double hung windows, despite being pretty basic in design, also need proper attention. Check out these tips to help you enhance and maximize the look and service life of your windows.

Cleaning Double Hung Windows

• Clean interior glass – When cleaning, it is best to start with the interior glass, particularly if the temperature outside is still too cool. If applicable, remove the interior grilles by lifting them away from the glass, near the frame’s edge, leaving the clips in place. Clean the glazing with mild soap and water or a vinegar and water solution. You can also use a liquid glass cleaner. Use a lint-free cloth to remove the cleaning solution. Meanwhile, rinse with water if you used soap.
• Clean exterior glass – To clean the exterior glass, you can start with the lower sash by unlocking the double hung window, sliding the sash and pulling toward you. Carefully rest the sash on a chair or other sturdy object. Next, carefully pull the upper sash. Remember to check your manufacturer’s instructions when doing these.
• Once the sashes are both wedged out, you can now clean the exterior glass using the same     cleaning agents and procedure as with the interior glass.
• Replacing sashes – After you’re done cleaning, get the sashes back to their original positions.
• Replacing grilles – If you removed interior grilles, replace them by placing them against the glass, firmly pressing along the grille and into the grille clips.

Basic Maintenance Reminders

• Balance adjustment – If you find that the sashes are difficult to slide or if they feel loose, adjusting the balance clutch mechanism may be necessary. If the sash feels loose, increase tension by turning the small adjustment screw on the clutch mechanism clockwise. Meanwhile, if the sashes are stiff, turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise.
• Lubrication – Remember to clean all surfaces before applying lubricant. Lubricate vinyl balances using a simonized paste or paraffin. Spray the edges with a silicone spray to maintain the ease of sliding the sash.