As summer comes to an end and the temperatures are dropping in the Park Ridge, IL area, it’s time to get your home ready for the winter season ahead. Raking the leaves, putting the patio furniture away, and covering the pool are generally on our minds at this time of year. But don’t forget about the windows and siding that will protect you throughout the cold and snowy months. Here are some tips for fall window and siding maintenance.
Prepare Your Windows for Winter
Leaky window frames and dirty panes of glass can adversely impact your health and your utility costs. This is a good time of year to have a window expert help you get ready for winter.
Seal Deteriorated Trim, Frames, and Sashes
Driving spring rain and hot summer sun can damage the wood, vinyl, or composite trim and sashes around your windows, creating gaps where water and air can make their way inside. Our window installers can inspect each window and apply sealant or caulk where needed to form a tight seal. We can also test each window for proper closure.
Replace Rotted Components
Window frames and exterior trim can deteriorate due to exposure to seasonal weather fluctuations. Trim around windows that is damaged or rotted can be replaced to keep rain, wind, and mold from entering your home. If a damaged window frame or sash isn’t repairable, that particular window can be replaced.
Wash the Glass
Having your windowpanes professionally cleaned, inside and outside, can benefit you in multiple ways. Clean windows allow winter sun to enter the home to help warm it up, resulting in lower utility costs. In addition, the sun and an unobstructed view can improve your mood by reducing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Natural daylight can also result in better productivity, even in winter.
Replace or Upgrade Windows
If your windows are very old, not operating properly, or have broken panes or seals, consider replacing the affected windows or upgrading all of them. Newer windows that we install at Perfect Windows & Siding are extremely energy efficient with double layers of glass either with an air space or a cavity filled with gas. We can also replace exterior doors that aren’t effectively keeping the cold and moisture out.
Prepare Your Siding for Winter
Siding is the first line of defense for your home or office from the elements. Well-maintained siding can last a very long time and keep you warm and dry all winter.
Clean the Siding
Dust, dirt, and mildew can accumulate on exterior siding throughout the summer. Having your siding professionally cleaned will remove the buildup and give your siding anew life to get through the gray days of winter. Vinyl siding can be power washed without causing surface damage, restoring its appearance to like new.
Repair the Siding and Trim
Small cracks, holes, and loose trim can be entry points for moisture and pests. Insects and small rodents will look for ways to get out of the cold and could potentially take up residence inside your building if given the opportunity. Our siding specialists can inspect your siding, trim, and soffit coverings and make the necessary repairs. Repairs include applying sealants and replacing damaged components.
Replace the Siding
If your vinyl or wood siding is badly deteriorated or falling off, consider replacing the vinyl or enclosing the wood with vinyl. Uninsulated and insulated vinyl siding options are available. Both will protect your home from harsh weather and increase energy efficiency. Vinyl siding can be placed right over your wood clapboards without the need for demolition work.
Quality Custom Windows and Siding
Fall is a perfect time to tend to the maintenance of your house in Park Ridge. The temperatures are generally still comfortable enough to perform work outdoors, and the snow hasn’t started falling. Perfect Windows & Siding can help you get your home or business ready for the harsh climate ahead. We are the experts in all things relating to siding, windows, and doors. We are a locally owned exterior improvement company and a BBB-accredited business with an A+ rating.
Give Perfect Windows & Siding a call today to schedule a personalized consultation to review your fall maintenance needs and prepare an estimate.