Windows, Screens, and Sliding Glass Doors

Your windows provide natural light, ventilation, and views while protecting against weather. Proper care keeps them operating smoothly and looking great.

Glass Replacement

Contact a glass company for reglazing of any windows that break. Glass is difficult to install without special tools.

Routine Maintenance

Task	Frequency	Time Required
Clean glass	As needed	Varies
Clean tracks	Quarterly	15 minutes
Check weep holes	Quarterly	5 minutes
Inspect weatherstripping	Annually	15 minutes
Lubricate tracks/hardware	Annually	15 minutes

Track Cleaning

Dirt in tracks causes sticking and can damage frames. To clean:

1. Vacuum loose debris from tracks
2. Wipe with damp cloth
3. Clean corners with old toothbrush
4. Dry thoroughly
5. Apply silicone lubricant (avoid petroleum-based products)

Weep Hole Maintenance

In heavy rains, water may collect in the bottom channel of window frames. Weep holes allow excess water to escape to the outside.

Keep weep holes clear:

• Check quarterly for dirt and debris
• Clean gently with small brush or pipe cleaner
• Ensure water can drain freely

Window Cleaning

Cleaning Tips

• Use approved cleaning products
• Never use a razor, knife, or blade on dry glass (causes scratches)
• Clean frames with mild soap and water
• Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots
• Clean on cloudy days to prevent streaking

Screen Care

Screen Maintenance

Many homeowners remove and store screens for winter to allow more light into the home.

Tips:

• Label each screen as you remove it for easy reinstallation
• Handle with care - screens perforate easily and frames bend
• Clean with gentle spray of water before reinstalling
• Store flat or hanging, not leaning (prevents warping)

Sliding Glass Doors

Care and Maintenance

Sliding glass doors use tempered glass that's more difficult to break than ordinary glass. If broken, it breaks into small circular pieces rather than dangerous splinters.

Maintenance:

• Keep tracks clean for smooth operation
• Clean tracks prevent frame damage
• Silicone lubricants work well
• Familiarize yourself with lock/security hardware

Troubleshooting

Window Sticks or Hard to Open

1. Clean track - Dirt buildup is the most common cause
2. Lubricate - Apply silicone lubricant (avoid petroleum-based)
3. Check for obstructions - Remove anything blocking track
4. Verify it's unlocked - Latches must be released

Note: Most sliding windows are designed for a 10-pound pull. If more force is needed, lubrication usually helps.

Window Won't Lock

1. Fully close window - Lock won't engage unless window is completely closed
2. Clean track - Debris may prevent full closure
3. Check alignment - Window may have shifted
4. Inspect hardware - Lock mechanism may be damaged

Drafty Window

1. Verify window is latched - Latching pulls window tight to create seal
2. Check weatherstripping - May be worn or damaged
3. Inspect for gaps - Around frame or in caulking
4. Note conditions - Some air infiltration is normal, especially before landscaping is established

Water in Window Track

1. Check weep holes - Must be clear to drain water
2. Clean track - Debris can block drainage
3. This is normal - Weep holes are designed to drain accumulated water

Condensation Issues

Interior surface condensation (on inside of window):

• Result of high humidity inside and low temperature outside
• Not a defect - controlled by indoor humidity
• To minimize: run exhaust fans, keep coverings slightly open, reduce humidity sources

Condensation between panes:

• Indicates broken seal
• Covered during first year by Classic Homes
• After first year, refer to manufacturer's warranty

See Condensation for detailed guidance.

Window Sill Care

Window sills may be made of drywall, wood, wood product, man-made products, or marble.

To protect:

• Keep wood sills dry - moisture causes damage
• Use plastic trays under plants
• Wipe up water promptly
• Don't let condensation pool on sills

What to Avoid

warning

• Don't add window tinting - Voids all warranties; can cause condensation or heat damage between panes
• Don't use razor blades on dry glass - Causes scratches
• Don't force stuck windows - Identify and fix cause
• Don't use petroleum-based lubricants - Can damage weatherstripping
• Don't neglect weep holes - Blocked holes cause water damage
• Don't lean on or hang items from windows - Can damage frames and hardware

Understanding Normal Behavior

Some Air Infiltration

Some air and dust will infiltrate around windows, especially before landscaping is installed in the area. This is normal and not a defect.

Expected Operation Force

Most sliding windows are designed for approximately 10 pounds of pull force. If yours requires more, lubrication usually resolves the issue.

Condensation

Interior condensation is controlled by your indoor humidity level and is not a warranty item. Proper ventilation minimizes condensation.

Seasonal Care

Before Winter

• Clean tracks and weep holes
• Check weatherstripping condition
• Consider removing and storing screens
• Verify all windows close and lock securely

Before Summer

• Reinstall screens
• Clean windows inside and out
• Lubricate tracks and hardware
• Check that weep holes are clear

Related Topics

• Doors and Locks
• Condensation
• Energy Conservation

---

Warranty Coverage: See Windows Standards for coverage periods and exclusions.