Tips for Proper Window Maintenance

When it comes to the maintenance of your business, your windows can often be overlooked. However, small details like windows can make a big impact on the overall look and comfort of your facility. Whilst we focus on the ‘big-ticket’ features, for example lighting or IT, we tend to assume that basic cleaning of our facility windows will suffice. Windows guard against water, dust, pollen, debris, extreme temperatures and break ins. At MSL, our window maintenance services will keep your windows functioning and looking clean for years to come.

Window Maintenance Tips

Below, we will outline window maintenance tips which can help to keep your windows in mint condition.

1. Cleaning

When cleaning your windows, make sure abrasive cleansers or chemical solvents are not used. This is because they’re likely to damage and scratch the surface material, resulting in the window losing its shine and lustre.

It’s important to clean all parts of a window thoroughly – not just the windowpanes. The window casing as well as the surrounding wall requires special attention. Cleaning these parts will help reduce dirt/dust build-up around the window and prevent window jams.

If your facility has wooden windows, you should wipe them with dry clothing. Steer clear of using any wet material to wipe them with, as moisture from the material will cause the windows to rot as well as destroy the wooden finish. For uPVC or fiberglass windows, all you need to do is wipe them with a soft brush, mild cleanser and warm water. Maintenance for such windows is much easier than wooden windows. We recommend using a glass cleaner if you want to add a glossy finish to fiberglass windows.

Employing a specialist and well-equipped team like MSL, to undertake window cleaning at your facility is essential. Our professionals will be able to reach all areas needing attention, whilst ensuring health and safety, for them, your staff and customers, is always adhered to.

2. Sealing

The various weather conditions, particularly rain and sunlight, can have adverse effects on windows. As a result, gaps and cracks around windows can occur which causes air to flow in and out of your facility. This will cause issues with heating or air conditioning, as energy systems struggle to combat the loss, or introduction of heat, therefore having to work harder. Consequently, this can not only increase your energy usage but bills too. We recommend regularly checking and replacing any worn-out rubber seals. Caulk or rubber-foam insulation can be used to fix such gaps.

3. Re-painting

If your business is exposed to strong winds and direct sunlight, the paint on your windows will decompose faster. Wooden and metal window frames need to be repainted every 3 to 4 years. This is to maintain their appearance, as well as protect them from weathering damage which can cause more issues in the long run. When you come to repaint your windows, make sure that you clean the surface of the material before you begin. It’s also advised to avoid painting the moving parts of windows, for instance the ridges or pivot bars. Once your windows have a fresh lick of paint, keep them open until the paint has dried.

4. Install storm windows

Storm windows offer protection from strong winds and operate as an insulator for harsh weather conditions. They can help make your facility warmer, by reducing airflow with improved insulation. Storm windows could also help you save on energy costs, and as an added bonus they come with superb durability.

5. Locks

It’s crucial to regularly check locks and opening mechanisms for problems, as this will help reduce issues evolving later down the line. Repair or replace anything of concern immediately, and tighten exposed screws to ensure mechanisms are attached securely to your windows. Having a planned maintenance programme in place means that your facility is regularly checked, so issues will be identified and repaired before an escalation ensues.

6. Damaged components

Any cracks, holes or splinters should be addressed as soon as possible. The longer such issues are left, the more damage will be done. Rotting frames can be fixed relatively easily if they’re detected early on. All you need to do is use a screwdriver to clean out the bad wood and then fill the holes with putty. Once everything dries, simply sand down the area and repaint.

7. Insulation

We recommend regularly inspecting your windows for rot or any risk of moisture penetration. You can use a metal rod for this process to make sure that the insulation capacity is maintained.

In double or triple-pane windows, the seam may need to be changed if there are signs of moisture. If gaps are present between the wall and the window casing – fill it up with caulk.

Most of the heat within a facility, escapes from the bottom of windows that have gaps, and this can’t be fixed with caulk. However, the gaps and cracks around the windows should be checked, and you must remove the old caulk if it doesn’t help resolve the issue of the air passage. Instead, replace it with a weather-proof silicone-based caulk, then use a scraper to smoothen it out.

Ensuring your windows are regularly maintained is essential. Using the discussed window maintenance tips will ensure they live a long, functional life all whilst maintaining their appearance. Taking preventive measures can help you from feeling overwhelmed when problems build up. Therefore, implementing a professional planned maintenance schedule could be integral to ensuring your windows are looked after properly. At MSL, we offer this as well as window maintenance services, where we work with you to compile an asset register, and agree the right level of maintenance for your facility.

To talk to us more about how we can help you with window maintenance, or any other services we provide, please give us a call on 0333 1234450.