Proper care of your windows and patio doors is essential to maintaining their functionality and appearance. This guide provides essential tips for cleaning, preventing common issues like condensation, and ensuring your doors and windows remain in optimal condition. Follow these guidelines to help preserve the beauty and performance of your windows and patio doors for years to come.
Glass and Window Care
- Cleaning: Clean vinyl surfaces with clear, warm water. Avoid powdered cleaners, and apply a silicone lubricant after each cleaning. For glass, use vinegar and water, a commercial glass cleaner, or another product recommended by the window manufacturer.
- Condensation: Condensation on interior window and frame surfaces results from high humidity inside and low outdoor temperatures. If your home has a humidifier, follow the manufacturer's directions carefully to control humidity levels.
- Weep Holes: Keep window channels and weep holes clear of dirt and debris to ensure proper drainage. Weep holes allow excess water to escape during heavy rains.
Door Maintenance
- Door Locks: Familiarize yourself with patio door hardware to ensure maximum security.
- Door Tracks: Clean patio door tracks regularly for smooth operation and to prevent damage. Silicone lubricants are effective for track maintenance.
- Sticking Windows: Sliding windows should open with a 10-pound pull. If they stick or require excessive pressure, apply a silicone lubricant, avoiding petroleum-based products.
Screen Care
- Storing Screens: Remove and store screens for winter to maximize light in your home. Label each screen for easy reinstallation. Handle screens carefully to avoid perforation or bending of the frames.
Alturas Homes Limited Warranty Guidelines
- Window and Screen Condition: During orientation, we will ensure all windows and screens are in acceptable condition. Broken or damaged screens noted during orientation will be repaired or replaced by Alturas Homes. After closing, responsibility for maintaining and replacing damaged screens rests with the homeowner.
- Condensation: Condensation between dual-glazed window panes indicates a broken seal. Alturas Homes will replace windows with broken seals during the warranty period. Condensation on the interior window surfaces is due to high humidity inside the home and is not covered by warranty.
- Infiltration: Air and dust may infiltrate around windows, especially before landscaping is completed in the area. This is not covered by the Alturas Homes warranty.
- Scratches: Minor scratches on window glass can occur due to handling during construction. Alturas Homes will replace windows with scratches visible from 11 feet. Scratches only visible in certain lighting conditions are not covered by the warranty.
- Tinting: Adding tinting to dual-glazed windows voids all warranties. Tinting may cause damage due to condensation or excessive heat build-up between the glass panes. Refer to the manufacturer’s literature for more information.