Get ahead of your May home maintenance plans with these Ontario spring cleaning tips. Here we’ll focus on window maintenance and door maintenance. The sooner you put these suggestions into practice, the sooner you’ll have a handle on how to keep your windows and doors clean and operational as we head toward summer.

Knowing what problems to look for is half the battle. A few cleaning and repairing techniques should be enough to keep your windows and doors gorgeous and worry-free. Going through a simple spring checklist can add years of service to your windows and doors.

Let’s start with windows so you can enjoy the view inside and outside your home.

Ensure Your Window Tracks Are Spotless

Window tracks are grooves in the upper and lower jambs that allow the window frame to slide open and closed. Dust and debris can accumulate in the lower track.

Neglecting window tracks can lead to compromised seals, allowing more moisture in. Also, dirty window tracks make your windows look dingy.

How to Clean Window Tracks

• Open the window fully and use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and loose debris.
• Using a spray bottle, apply a cleaning solution made of warm water and either white vinegar or dish soap.
• With a toothbrush, scrub down the remaining soot.
• Remove the loosened grime with a damp sponge.

Having done so, then rinse the sponge and wipe down the rest of the window frame. Use the same cleaning solution you’ve prepared for the window tracks.

Cleaning Window Panes

This is simpler. Usually, all it takes is clean water. Wipe the glass with a wet microfiber cloth or a lint-free cotton cloth and then dry the pane with a dry cloth.

If there’s more dirt than usual, here’s the move:

• Apply your spray bottle cleaning solution.
• Scrub with your sponge.
• Dry the pane using a squeegee. Start at the top of the window and glide the squeegee down in a straight stroke. Wipe the squeegee’s rubber edge with a cloth after each pass.

After this process, your windows should glisten.

Springtime Door Maintenance

Doors take a beating in winter. Luckily, a few basic steps will get them into shape. Clean the door using the same cleansers and sponge you used for your windows.

Examine the Weatherstripping on Your Doors

Check for drafts with your hand close to the door frame. Feel for any air escaping around the edges of the door. Look for light shining through gaps between the door and the frame.

What to Look for Depending on the Weatherstripping Material

• Foam: Look for foam that is pulling away from the edges.
• Rubber/Vinyl: Check for cracks or peeling.
• Metal: Look for splits, bending, warping, or loose sections.

You may be able to replace damaged foam, rubber or vinyl weatherstripping yourself, depending on your DIY skills. If metal weatherstripping is compromised, consider professional help.

Let Champagne Siding Help with Your Home’s Windows and Doors

Since 1979, Champagne Siding has been the trusted choice for window and door renovations in Sudbury and surrounding areas. As proud members of the Sudbury & District Home Builders’ Association and the TIM-BR® Mart Buying Group, we leverage competitive wholesale pricing to bring you quality craftsmanship at an affordable cost. Ready to upgrade your home? Contact us today for a free estimate.