How to Make Your New Indianapolis Windows Last Longer

Replacement windows are a significant investment, so it only makes sense that you want them to last as long as possible. Even if your Indianapolis home still has its original windows, if they’re in good shape, they are worth preserving. So, how can you extend the life of your windows and reduce the wear and tear they experience? Here are a few strategies to get you started.

Choose Fibrex over vinyl replacement windows.

If you are still in the market for new windows, put a lot of thought and research into your selection. Cheaper vinyl windows are popular because they are advertised as a low-maintenance choice. However, they are not a very durable option because vinyl is prone to distortion when the temperature changes rapidly — as it often does in the Indianapolis area. Windows made from a composite material, like Fibrex from Renewal by Andersen, will last a lot longer, making them worth the investment. Fibrex does not warp or rot when exposed to water or fluctuations in temperature, so your replacement windows won’t start leaking or letting drafts into your home.

Clean your windows properly.

Cleaning your windows does not just keep them looking good. When you remove dirt and dust from the windows, you are preventing that debris from holding onto water that could lead to rot and deterioration. Here are a few guidelines to adhere to when it comes to cleaning.

• Clean the exterior of your windows at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. (This is easy with new replacement windows that fold inward, allowing you to clean the outside from inside your home.)
• Clean the window interiors monthly.
• Use a squeegee and soap solution, rather than window cleaner, as this removes grime more effectively.
• Use a cotton swab to remove dust from the crease between the glass and the window sash. This is where most deterioration begins.

If you hire a window cleaning company rather than cleaning the windows yourself, make sure they are using a mild cleaning solution that won’t cause damage to wood or other components.

Don’t let branches and shrubs rub against windows.

Tree branches and shrubs are a common contributor to window deterioration. They may rub against the window sash or frame, creating scratches that begin the starting point for deterioration. If you have trees and shrubs near your home, make sure you keep them well trimmed. Plant new shrubbery at least four feet from the side of your home so there’s plenty of room between the mature plants and your windows.

Keep an eye on the caulk.If the caulk or weatherstripping on your house windows starts to deteriorate, make sure you replace it sooner rather than later. Once water starts seeping through the caulk, it will cause the nearby wood structures to start rotting or deteriorating. This is especially true of the older wooden windows seen in many Indianapolis homes. The caulk often gives out before the rest of the window, but it’s pretty easy to pull out and replace. Always make sure to check your warranty before doing any DIY work on your windows; you don’t want to void the warranty!

If you follow the advice above, the windows in your Indianapolis home will last a lot longer. If your house windows are badly worn and in need of replacement, contact Renewal by Andersen. We offer high-quality Fibrex windows that will give you many years of energy-efficiency and comfort, with very little need for maintenance.