Reseal Windows and Doors

During spring home maintenance, it’s time to pay attention to a couple of home features we often take for granted. Your windows and doors are the most common places where homeowners lose money. Worn seals, damage and warping allow air from HVAC units to flow out of your home, raising your heating and cooling costs.

First, inspect for warping around the frames or of the doors and windows themselves. Check for cracked and worn weather stripping.

Vacuum your window frames to remove bug infestations, loose dirt and other foreign debris. Then wipe them down with an all-purpose cleaner and a soft cloth.

Once clean, you may want to caulk and reseal your window frames. This will eliminate those little cracks that allow air to flow out or bugs to come in. You should also replace the weather-stripping around your windows and doors once or twice a year.

Before washing your windows, check to see if they have Low-E coating, because they may need a special kind of cleaning. Low-E coating reduces the UV and infrared waves that pass through the pane, helping you regulate the temperature inside your home. Improper cleaning can damage the film, reducing their effectiveness.

If you find any cracks in your window panes, you should replace them immediately. Cracks can worsen with changes in the weather and further cracking may damage the window frame. If you have double or triple-pane windows, they’re often filled with Argon gas, an inert gas that helps insulate your windows. Cracks allow the gas to leak out. And, while experts consider the gas harmless, it will comprise your energy efficiency and raise your heating and cooling costs.

Screens on your windows and doors wear out quickly. The thin, mesh wire can rip or tear over as it weakens from exposure to the elements and time. Replace your screens as needed to allow fresh air into your home while keeping insects and other critters out.

Wood window frames, door frames and exterior doors may also need treating or repainting. Frequent use causes wear, and moisture makes that wear susceptible to mildew, mold and rot. Weakened and damaged frames can also warp, causing windows and doors to stick.

Garage Door Maintenance

Garage doors may also need some attention in the spring. When the doors are operating properly, they shouldn’t make much noise. If you hear grinding or squealing sounds, it’s time to give your garage some attention.

First, clear out the tracks. Debris and dirt build up can sometimes be the cause of the noise. Worse, if left unaddressed, they can cause the track and wheels to warp. Make sure you tighten all screws, nuts and bolts. Loose hardware can also cause the system to malfunction.

Take care with the bottom brackets and bolts on your garage door. If they’re in need of replacement, hire a pro. This hardware holds an immense amount of weight and can be difficult to repair. You might also want the pro to check and ensure the weight of the door remains evenly balanced.

Look at, but don’t touch, the cables and pulleys in your system. If you notice any wear or tear, then it’s time to call an electrician or a garage door specialist. The springs might also require replacing.

Last but not least, lubricate the wheels to reduce friction and wear and tear in the operation of the door.

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