Window Maintenance
How to Maintain Your Windows
At Thermal Gard® Building Products, Inc., we take pride in manufacturing windows that are built to last; however, it’s important to note that proper care and window maintenance are crucial to keep them in excellent condition and extend their lifespan even further.
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the track or sill and clogging weep holes, which could lead to water damage and mold growth. When cleaning, avoid using abrasive or caustic cleaners, as they can damage the finish of your windows and doors. Instead, use a mixture of mild dish soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth. Following proper window care will ensure they last.
- Vacuum soil and debris from the track or sill before washing
- Use a mixture of mild dish soap or a non-abrasive soap and water to clean
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth
- Make sure weep holes are clear of obstruction and draining properly
- Remove screens and wash with a soft brush on a flash surface using mild dish soap and water
- Check the weather stripping around all window and door sashes
- Lubricate all moving parts, with a silicone based lubricant twice a year
- Use a non-wax furniture polish for plastic parts of the window
Please note: to avoid staining, test any polish, soap or lubricant on an unseen portion of your product before cleaning.
What to AVOID when cleaning your windows:
- Abrasive or caustic cleaners or solvents - may damage the finish of your windows and doors
- Washing windows in direct sunlight
- Using pressure washers, as the powerful spray may damage insulation and glass seal
- Sharp instruments or abrasive pads
- Applying any adhesives to the glass, heat from the sun may bake the adhesive to the glass
Use the form below, call us at 814-938-1408, or email us at info@thermal-gard.com with any questions!
Condensation On Your Windows
What is Condensation? Condensation is when water droplets collect on a cold surface when humid air is in contact with it.
Where is the condensation? It is important first to identify where the condensation is located. Is the condensation on the outside of the window, inside of the window or in between the window panes?
What is causing condensation? Condensation during different seasons may be more common. Condensation on the inside or outside of the window does not necessarily mean it is faulty. When warm air meets the cooler window surface you may see water droplets. Moisture in the air is causing condensation. The window is the coldest surface indoors. The indoor air is much warmer in the cooler months and holds more moisture than the outdoor cool dry air. Once you replace your old windows with new windows you will no longer have a draft. The new windows do not allow air to escape. You may notice more condensation when you install the newer windows due to now having a tighter seal. Relentless indoor window condensation can lead to the growth of mold or mildew.
Ways to help circulate the air in your home are:
- leave interior doors open throughout your home
- turn on ceiling fans and/or exhaust fans
- weather permitting, crack a window
- make sure attic vents are not blocked and kept open
What causes condensation on the outside of the windows? Typically condensation occurs on the outside of the window during the summer months when outside humidity levels are high. If you have a cool night, the glass on your window will be cooler. The cooler glass will collect dew. When the sun comes up and starts to heat up the glass a condensation will form on the window. As the glass warms up from the sun the condensation will evaporate. Condensation on the outside of the window is no need to cause alarm. With correct window installation, water should not get to the interim of the home. If the window is blocked from the sunlight by a bush or shrubs, this could add to the condensation.
Condensation between window panes– Window seal failure is the reason there is condensation in between the panes of glass. A leak in the seal causing seal failure allows for moisture to seep in between the panes of glass. If there is any condensation between the panes of glass it is more than likely time for a window replacement.