Vinyl window maintenance is simple: wash the frames a few times a year with a soft brush and mild cleaner, check the caulking and seals, and keep sharp or heavy objects away from them. The same routine works for vinyl siding. A little regular care keeps the outside of your home looking good and protects its value.
These tips cover what to do, what to avoid and when to call a professional.
Vinyl Window Maintenance and Siding Cleaning Basics
Clean regularly with gentle products
Dirt, dust and grime build up on vinyl over time. Clean your windows and siding periodically with a soft-bristle brush or a cloth and a gentle cleaning solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners, which can scratch or dull the surface.
Deal with mildew early
In damp, humid weather, which Connecticut sees plenty of in summer, vinyl siding can develop mildew, especially on shaded walls. Mix water with a mildew-resistant detergent, scrub the affected areas with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly.
Skip the pressure washer
Pressure washers are useful for some jobs, but not this one. A high-pressure stream can force water underneath siding panels or into window frames, where it can cause damage you will not see right away. A garden hose and a brush are safer.
Inspect for Damage and Worn Seals
Walk around the house a few times a year and look closely at the windows and siding. Check for cracks, dents and loose pieces, and address anything you find promptly so a small problem does not turn into a larger one.
Pay particular attention to the caulking around your windows. If it is cracked, shrinking or pulling away, replace it. A sound seal keeps out drafts and water leaks.
If the windows themselves are failing, with drafts, fogged glass or sashes that will not stay open, cleaning and caulk will not fix them. That is the point to look at new vinyl replacement windows.
Prevent Scratches, Cracks and Fading
Trim landscaping with care
Overgrown bushes and branches that brush against vinyl can scratch it or even puncture it. Keep plantings trimmed back from your windows and siding.
Be mindful of outdoor furniture and tools
Keep furniture, grills, ladders and other objects away from the siding. Dragging heavy furniture against the wall or hitting it with a tool can leave scratches or cracks.
Handle snow and ice gently
In winter, never use sharp tools or ice picks to remove snow and ice from windows or siding. Use a soft brush or a snow rake instead.
Address fading or discoloration
Years of sun exposure can cause vinyl to fade. This is natural. If you want to refresh the color, use a paint that is made to be safe for vinyl.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to clean vinyl windows with?
A soft cloth or soft-bristle brush with a gentle cleaning solution, such as mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners and scouring pads.
Can I pressure wash vinyl siding or windows?
It is better not to. High-pressure water can get behind the siding or into the window frames and cause damage.
How often should I inspect my windows and siding?
A routine look every few months, and after any major storm, is enough to catch cracks, loose pieces and worn caulking early. An inspection by a professional exterior contractor once a year can catch issues you might miss.
Need Help With Your Home’s Exterior?
If your inspection turns up problems that maintenance cannot solve, Aladdin can help with replacement windows as well as other curb appeal upgrades such as entry doors and door canopies and window awnings. Reach out to us or call (203) 776-9996 with your questions.