Protecting Your Home from the Elements: Top Window Care Tips for Broward and Palm Beach Counties
Living in Broward and Palm Beach counties comes with the perk of gorgeous weather, but it also brings the challenges of humidity, salt air, and seasonal storms. Protecting your windows from these elements is essential to maintaining both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Here are some top tips to help you keep your windows in peak condition, prevent costly repairs, and ensure your home stays comfortable all year long.
1. Regularly Inspect for Visible Wear and Tear
Frequent inspection is key to spotting potential issues before they become major problems. Look for signs such as cracked seals, fogging, rust, or difficult operation. Florida’s intense heat and humidity can wear down seals, allowing moisture to get trapped between glass panes, which often leads to fogging and reduced insulation. Addressing these issues early can save you from needing a complete window replacement.
Quick Tip: While inspecting your windows, pay attention to any squeaks, stiffness, or grime on the tracks and handles, especially after stormy or windy weather.
2. Clean Tracks and Jambs Regularly
Dust, sand, and salt particles carried by the coastal winds can accumulate in window tracks and jambs, affecting their operation. Regular cleaning keeps windows sliding smoothly and prevents buildup that can lead to corrosion. Clean window tracks with a soft brush, and for extra stubborn grime, use a gentle detergent.
For your sliding glass doors and windows, apply LC Wax to the jambs. This lubricant is specifically designed for aluminum tracks, which makes it ideal for homes near the coast. LC Wax not only reduces friction, helping the windows slide more easily, but also protects against rust by creating a protective layer. Just remember to keep the tracks as dry as possible after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup.
Pro Tip: Apply LC Wax periodically, especially after heavy rain or during the more humid months to keep the jambs smooth and rust-free.
3. Seal and Caulk as Needed
Sealants and caulking around windows help prevent water intrusion, drafts, and energy loss. Inspect the edges of your windows and the surrounding walls for any cracks or gaps. In our climate, window seals can become compromised over time due to humidity and extreme heat, leading to water seepage and reduced efficiency.
Recaulking the window frame every year or two can greatly improve insulation and keep moisture out. Choose a high-quality silicone or latex caulk designed for outdoor use, as these are more resistant to Florida’s fluctuating temperatures.
4. Consider Impact-Resistant Glass or Protective Film
Broward and Palm Beach counties are in hurricane-prone areas, so consider upgrading to impact-resistant glass if your windows don’t already have it. Impact-resistant windows are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, protecting your home’s interior from damage during storms. If a full upgrade isn’t feasible, consider applying a protective film to your existing windows. This film won’t be as strong as impact glass but can help reinforce the glass and reduce the risk of shattering.
Local Insight: Many homeowners find that impact-resistant windows help reduce noise pollution, which can be a plus for homes close to highways or busy areas.
5. Check Locks and Handles for Functionality
The coastal environment in South Florida is tough on window hardware. Salt in the air can lead to corrosion on metal locks and handles, affecting their performance over time. To keep your windows secure and functioning, check locks and handles regularly and consider replacing any that show signs of rust or wear.
For sliding glass doors, use stainless steel hardware whenever possible, as it’s more resistant to rust and will perform better in high-humidity environments.
Maintenance Tip: Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner on locks and handles to remove any dirt or salt residue. Regular maintenance can extend the life of these components and keep your windows operating smoothly.
6. Schedule Professional Window Maintenance Annually
Even with diligent DIY maintenance, it’s beneficial to have a professional evaluate your windows annually. A window specialist can inspect seals, frames, and glass for hidden damage, perform any necessary repairs, and give your windows a thorough cleaning. This yearly check-up is especially valuable if you’ve experienced severe weather or live close to the coast, as it ensures your windows are ready to withstand whatever the South Florida climate throws at them.
Casey’s Tip: By scheduling an annual window inspection and service, you’re investing in the longevity of your windows, potentially saving thousands in repair or replacement costs in the long run.
Conclusion
Windows play a crucial role in protecting your home from Florida’s unique and often harsh environment. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your windows, enhance energy efficiency, and maintain a comfortable, beautiful home. Regular inspections, cleaning, and lubrication (like LC Wax on the jambs) will keep your windows in excellent shape, ready to withstand the elements and provide lasting value.
For local homeowners, these small steps can make a big difference. Whether you’re tackling simple maintenance tasks or need professional assistance, protecting your windows from the elements is an investment in your home’s future.
