Bespoke windows are designed for Colorado’s tough climate, but even high-quality materials and glazing require consistent attention to stay functional. Rapid fluctuations in temperature, high-elevation UV exposure, and sporadic hailstorms can create undue wear on seals and hardware more rapidly than you might realize. Completing small maintenance tasks prior to seasonal shifts will keep the issues small, while also protecting your home’s efficiency. Most of the work is either with simple tools, you already own or will only take a weekend’s time.
Your custom windows face blazing summer sun, swirling autumn leaves, and frigid mountain winds. A little seasonal attention keeps them working smoothly, safeguards your indoor comfort, and protects the investment you made when you followed modern window replacement guidelines. Use the tips below to give your windows—and the occasional exterior door—the care they deserve all year long. You can also visit https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/articles/window-replacement-rehabilitation-repair-guides-building-america-top for further details.
Spring Cleaning Checklist
Colorado’s high‑altitude dust and long winters can leave a gritty film even on premium glazing. Pick a calm morning when temperatures rise above 50 °F, so cleaning solutions dry evenly and streak‑free. Gathering your supplies—bucket, microfiber cloths, soft brush, and gentle detergent—beforehand streamlines the process and lets you spot minor damage early.
- Wash the glass inside and out. A mild soap solution and microfiber cloth prevent scratches on energy efficient glazing.
- Inspect the screens. Patch tiny tears or replace severely damaged panels to keep insects outside.
- Clear the tracks. A handheld vacuum removes grit that makes sashes hard to slide.
- Check weatherstripping. Replace cracked strips, especially along meeting rails.
- Assess nearby doors. French doors and patio sliders share components with windows; spotting wear early stops drafts later.
Lubricating Window Tracks
A sash which sticks is more than an annoyance: it puts stress on hardware and shortens the life of your custom windows. Use a dry silicone spray, hold the nozzle a few inches away from the track, and with a light coat, spray down the track. Put your windows up and down a few times to let the lubricant coat the wheels and balances. Wipe off any excess. This simple maintenance on your windows can be done twice a year, and fits in perfectly with other household duties, and keeps windows gliding like new. Visit this forum discussion about the usage of silicone spray for your window.
How to Reseal Caulking?
Colorado’s freeze–thaw cycles test exterior sealants. On a bright, dry day, examine the frame perimeter for hairline cracks. Cut and peel away old beads using a sharp utility knife, then brush the gap clean so fresh silicone adheres properly. When you reload the caulk gun, aim for a steady, 45‑degree angle and smooth the bead with a damp finger or finishing tool. Flexible sealant protects insulated glass units from moisture intrusion and preserves the energy performance you paid for.
Preventing Condensation Buildup
Condensation on interior glass isn’t just an eyesore—it can rot wooden sills and encourage mold. Keep indoor humidity between 30 % and 50 % with a small hygrometer and vent steam from kitchens and baths outdoors. If blinds stay closed all winter, open them for a few hours daily so air can circulate against the pane. Persistent fog between double panes signals a failed seal; calling a professional right away often avoids a full replacement and supports the outcomes of a recent home energy audit.
Winterizing Custom Windows
Once the aspen leaves drop and overnight lows dip below freezing, it’s time to shift from cooling to heating mode. A single afternoon of preventative work now can spare you weeks of drafts and inflated utility bills. Treat the checklist below as your annual cold‑weather ritual to keep your custom windows performing at their peak.
- Add removable storm panels or interior inserts. They create an extra buffer against winter wind without altering the main sash.
- Tighten locks and latches. Firm hardware pulls the sash against weatherstripping and blocks drafts.
- Press rope caulk into small gaps. It’s simple to remove when spring arrives.
- Close drapes strategically. Heavy curtains capture warmth at night; open them on sunny days for passive heat.
- Clear basement egress wells. Snow buildup hinders exits and can corrode metal parts, so brush them out after storms.
Whether you follow these seasonal actions to care for your windows, it helps protect your windows, provide a more comfortable home environment and extend the lifespan of your windows. When you notice issues that may be ready for a professional (like a frame that is sagging or broken hardware), call a well-reviewed, reputable contractor that understands the safety of door installation as well as confusing and complicated glazing systems.
Baumann Windows
10250 W 17th Pl Lakewood, CO, 80215
303-589-9022
Their certified-sustainable windows are qualified to know the demands of the climate of the region, and they can also help to advise you on advanced upgrades when your custom windows need extra support; when you take the time to do regular preventative maintenance, and pair that with expert support, you’ll have enhanced crystal clear views, smooth operation, and lower heating and cooling costs for many years to come.
So, gather up your checklist, choose a sunny weekend, and give your custom windows the attention and care they deserve – you’ll feel the difference every time you open them.