Doors and windows play an essential role in the tightness, insulation and aesthetics of your home. For them to maintain their performance and appearance for many years, regular maintenance is essential. This guide provides practical tips for extending the life of your doors and windows while avoiding unnecessary replacement costs.

1. Regular surface cleaning

Basic maintenance starts with proper cleaning. Dust, dirt, and debris can build up on frames and windows, affecting how they look and function.

Windows:

• Frames: Use a soft cloth or sponge soaked in warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch surfaces, especially aluminum and PVC surfaces.
• Glazing: Choose a specialized product for glass or a homemade solution based on white vinegar diluted in water. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth to avoid streaks.

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Gates:

• Wooden doors: Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry immediately to prevent water ingress that could cause deformation.
• Metal or PVC doors: Clean with a mild product and dry to maintain their shine.

Frequency: Clean at least twice a year, or more often in areas exposed to harsh weather conditions.

2. Component inspection

Periodic inspection of your doors and windows is crucial to detect signs of degradation before they become serious.

• Seals: Examine the rubber or silicone seals around the windows and frames. Look for cracks, detachments, or crushes. Replace them if necessary to prevent air or water from entering.
• Hinges and hardware: Check hinges, handles, and latches to make sure they're working properly. If components are loose, tighten them up, and lubricate moving parts to prevent wear.
• Frames: Check frames for cracks, paint chips, or deformations.

Frequency: Inspect items every three months and after extreme weather events.

3. Maintenance of mechanisms

The mechanisms for opening and closing doors and windows are subject to regular use. Appropriate maintenance ensures their longevity.

• Lubrication: Apply a non-greasy or silicone-based lubricant to sliding window hinges, slides, and rails to make sliding window hinges, slides, and rails easier to operate.
• Settings: Adjust the hinge screws or rails if you notice airtight sealing or alignment issues.
• Locks and handles: If the locks appear to be stuck, use a remover to release them. Test the handles for any anomalies.

Frequency: Lubricate components once every six months, or more often as needed.

4. Weather protection

Weather conditions can damage your doors and windows. Preventive measures make it possible to limit these effects.

• Wooden doors and windows: Apply exterior varnish or paint every 3 to 5 years to prevent cracks and rot caused by humidity.
• Aluminum or PVC doors and windows: Avoid prolonged contact with corrosive chemicals.
• Storm barriers: Install storm barriers to protect your openings from high winds, snow, and driving rain.

Frequency: Perform these preventive measures according to the seasons and before winter.

5. Condensation and humidity management

Condensation is a common problem that can damage your windows and reduce their thermal performance.

• Ventilation: Maintain good ventilation in your home to prevent moisture from building up. Use dehumidifiers if needed.
• Glazing: If your windows are prone to excessive condensation, consider replacing them with double- or triple-glazed models.
• Drainage: Make sure window drainage holes are clear to allow water to drain properly.

Frequency: Check humidity and clean drains once a month.

6. Preventive repairs

Acting quickly when faced with small problems can avoid major repairs.

• Cracks: Fill cracks on wooden or PVC frames with specific products.
• Peeling paint: Reapply a coat of paint to maintain watertightness and aesthetics.
• Mosquito nets: If your nets are torn, repair or replace them to prevent insects from entering.

Frequency: Repair minor damages as soon as they appear.

7. Call on professionals

If some problems seem complex to you, do not hesitate to ask an expert. Window and door maintenance professionals have the skills and tools to ensure long-lasting repairs.

• Annual inspection: Hire a professional to inspect your openings once a year.
• Replacing the elements: Call a specialist to replace damaged windows or frames.

Regular maintenance and attention to detail can significantly extend the life of your doors and windows. By investing time in cleaning, inspection, and preventative repairs, you're protecting not only your openings, but your entire home from weather and energy loss. If you follow this guide, your doors and windows will stay in great condition for many years to come.