Wood windows are truly timeless. They can transform the look and feel of any space, but they do require some extra love and care to maintain their craftsman appearance. With proper wood window maintenance, they will remain vibrant and beautiful for many years to come. Below you’ll find our top 4 pro tips for wood window maintenance.
Top 4 ways to care for your wood windows:
1. Clean them seasonally.
Cleanings are key when it comes to maintaining the health and appearance of your wood windows. Dirt, dust, and debris can build up on your window frames over time, especially on the exterior, which is why it’s so important to wipe them down and wash them regularly. Cleanings also provide an opportunity to inspect for damage that you will want to repair immediately.
Here’s how to clean your wood windows: First, use a soft, dry cloth to remove loose dust and dirt. Then, use a soft, damp cloth dipped in warm water and mild detergent or soap to clean any further buildup. Be sure to wring out your cloth frequently during your cleaning to avoid excess water from running down the frame. You want the cloth to be damp, but not soaking wet. As soon as you are done with your cleaning, wipe down your windows with a dry, soft cloth.
2. Repair them immediately.
If cracks or paint/stain peeling is spotted during your seasonal cleanings and inspections, you should plan to repair them quickly to avoid further damage. Cracks should be sealed with a matching finishing product or primer and then painted a matching color. If the cracks are large, they can be filled with wood filler and sanded down before being painted or stained. Stain or paint that is peeling should be sanded and then refinished.
3. Stain or Paint whenever needed.
Soon after your wood windows are installed, you should have both interior and exterior bare or primed wood surfaces stained or painted right away. This protects the wood from moisture damage. Every few years, you should plan to re-stain and repaint your windows with high-quality products designed for wood to continue to protect your windows from damage. If you notice any areas of deterioration in your stain or paint, you should sand and refinish the frames. Also, keep in mind that the exterior of your windows will need to be refinished more frequently than interiors, as they are exposed to harsh elements, including moisture, sun, and other environmental factors.
DIY PRO TIP!
If you plan to stain or paint your wood windows yourself, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the wooden surface to ensure a clean, flat application of your stain or paint. Choosing to paint your windows instead of staining or simply water-sealing them? Then, you should first prime your window frame first. Priming the window helps the paint adhere to the wood. Once the primer has been applied, use a latex or oil-based paint.
Caulk the edges.
Install weather stripping or caulking on the edges of wood windows. This prevents drafts and moisture from entering your home. Be sure to use exterior caulking materials on the outside so you have maximum coverage from the elements. Regularly inspect exterior caulking and trim off anything that is loose or cracked. Then, seal the gaps with high-quality exterior caulk.
These 4 pro tips for wood window maintenance will help preserve the aesthetic appearance and health of your wood windows for years to come. The trick is to keep up with your seasonal cleanings, inspections, and repairs!
Hometown Window and Door Experts for Over 80 Years
JB Sash & Door has been providing New Englanders with windows and doors for more than 80 years and is the leading distributor of Marvin products in the region. JB Sash is the largest dealer in New England that specializes in windows and doors who understand how to preserve the historic details that are unique to New England homes.
Whether they’re recreating historic window replacements throughout Boston based on the high standards set by the Architectural District Commissions of Boston or transforming homes across the region to infuse the authentic New England touch, their focus is to bring their clients’ visions to life … one window at a time.
