Regular Check-Up and Maintenance on Your Windows and Doors in Birmingham, AL

When you first purchase a home, you complete a pretty in-depth walk through of the home to make certain everything is in decent condition. Depending on when you moved in, it might have been a little bit since you looked at your home with that same eagle eye.

Now that the colder weather is gone in Birmingham, take some time to stroll through your home and inspect your windows and doors to check for any possible maintenance problems. It’s fast, easy and it may save you money by catching areas that necessitate maintenance.

Here are some tips from Pella in Birmingham to help you conduct simple maintenance on your windows and doors:

• Inspect the interior and exterior finishes – Check on the condition of the finish around your windows and doors. Is the paint or stain in presentable condition? Flaking and peeling are signs that you may want to refinish the window or door.
  
  
• Look at exterior surfaces – Condensation and water penetration can induce cracking, deteriorated wood or other damage. Check for signs of moisture. You should also look at the walls, floors and ceilings for discoloration.
  
  
• Find the source of any problems – If you notice any discoloration or signs of moisture; try to uncover what’s causing the problem. Discolored wood around a window might be caused by a leak some distance away. In the case of roof leaks, sometimes the water can run down the inside of the wall and reach the window.
  
  
• Clean window sills and tracks – Dirt and debris such as leaves, insects and sand can build up in your window sills. Open the windows and clean out the tracks with a soft brush. This should also be done on patio doors. Debris can diminish the performance of your windows by letting air enter the home.
  
  
• Open and close windows to check on sliding – If it feels like your windows have uneven sliding when you open and close them, try a non-oily lubricant such as paraffin wax on the opposing finishes to get it back on track.
  
  
• Review weather stripping – All your windows and doors have weather stripping, and well, weather can be hard on it. Look for any loose strips that need to be reattached or replace sections that are torn.
  
  
• Check locking mechanisms – Locks not only keep people out of your home, but they also help make sure your windows and doors are tight. This helps to keep out rain, wind, insects and even the hot air. Make sure they are doing their job properly.
  
  
• Look at caulking and sealants – Rain, water and extreme sunlight can be harsh on exterior sealants and caulking. Get rid of any damaged material around your doors and windows and reapply sealant.

If you see any signs of concerns with your home’s windows or doors, or you want to chat with an expert, call 877-680-9617 to speak with a Pella representative or visit the showroom in Birmingham.