Before you begin any maintenance, it's a good idea to know what kind of windows you have. Different styles and materials, such as triple-paned glass or vinyl wood frames, can develop issues specific to their design, such as condensation between panes or frame-specific damage.
It’s also worth checking for torn window screens and making sure each window opens, closes, and locks as it should. These small checks can guide your upkeep, helping you spot what needs attention.
If you’re maintaining your windows on your own, here are a few simple tasks that can help keep things in good shape:
Inspect your windows at least once a year, and take a closer look after major storms. Watch for signs of wear such as leaks, cracked sealant, chipped paint, or trouble with sliding sashes or cranks.
Keep an eye on the caulking around the windows—it helps keep moisture out. Small cracks, especially near the bottom corners or between window units, can let water in and cause further damage if left unchecked.
Check both the interior and exterior wood finishes for peeling, cracking, or rot, which are often caused by sun exposure and weather. If you spot any damage, you can remove the affected areas, fill them with epoxy putty, and reseal with a waterproof wood finish. Vinyl frames typically need less upkeep than wood.
Clean and lubricate your window tracks to keep them moving smoothly. Dirt buildup can cause windows to stick, so it’s worth brushing away debris or using soap and water for more stubborn grime. If needed, apply some oil-free lubricant, as oil-based products tend to attract dust and make things worse over time.
Check how well your windows fit within their frames. Over time, moisture and temperature shifts can subtly change the shape of the materials, making windows harder to open or close. A snug fit ensures smooth function and keeps drafts at bay.
Give your windows a gentle clean now and then, ideally more than once a year. Clean glass will make it easier to spot signs of wear that might need attention.
If you’d rather not tackle window maintenance on your own, a professional can do it for you. They’ll follow the same checklist any homeowner would use, but with the added benefit of experience. They can spot early signs of wear that are easy to miss, handle repairs, install storm windows if needed, and offer suggestions to help your windows work more efficiently over time.
At Storm Guard, we offer a no-obligation window assessment to help you understand the condition of your windows and explore options when you’re ready to upgrade. Professional maintenance does more than seal out the weather; it can offer peace of mind, a clearer picture of your home’s health, and even contribute to long-term property value.
Regular window maintenance helps you catch issues like cracks, moisture damage, or insulation loss, before they turn into bigger, costly repairs. Even minor drafts can raise your energy bill by $10 to $20 a month, depending on your home and climate. A few simple upkeep tasks can go a long way in keeping things running smoothly and saving you time, money, and hassle in the future.
If you’re considering professional window maintenance, it’s easy to get started. Just enter your zip code into our locator to find a Storm Guard provider near you. From there, we’ll help assess your windows and guide you through your options. Storm Guard is here with reliable service and practical solutions, no matter your needs.
Use this short checklist for the basic maintenance that windows need:
Clean your window glass and tracks
Lubricate the tracks
Touch up the sealant with caulk to help avoid water damage and drafts
Inspect wood frames for rot
Check the window fit
Newer windows often last 15 to 20 years, though lifespan can vary. If yours are older, consider scheduling a non-obligatory assessment with a Storm Guard professional.
Yes. Replacing all windows at once helps ensure consistent performance and lifespan, but if budget is a concern, replacing a few at a time is still a practical option.
Professionals agree that it is better to replace all your windows at once. This ensures that they all last the same amount of time. But, if the budget is tight, it’s also okay to replace a few windows at a time.
Unless otherwise noted, each use of "Storm Guard," “us,” “we,” or “our” throughout Stormguardrc.com collectively refers to both the Storm Guard brand and the Storm Guard Franchise System, which is made up almost exclusively of independently owned and operated franchise locations.
