How to Maintain Wooden Window Frames

While wooden window frames can usually take care of themselves, they do require regular maintenance. Spotting problems early is a good way to save yourself time and money in the long run, and it is no exception in this case. While many repairs are complicated, the simple, regular maintenance you can perform to keep your window in good condition is quite straightforward. No matter what kind of wooden frame your window has, it does need to be taken care of. This includes cleaning it regularly and checking it for signs of damage. The following instructions should help you to keep your window frame in good condition.

Step 1 - Removing Loose Dust

Begin by dusting off the window frame. Do this with a clean, dry cloth. Do not be afraid to scrub a little bit, as you want to remove all of the dust and anything else that is on the top layer of grime.

When you are finished, you may need to vacuum up the floor below your window, or simply sweep up any dust you have dislodged and discard it

Step 2 - Preparing your Cloth

Get out a second clean cloth, or simply wash out the one you have already used. Get it damp by soaking it in water and wringing it out. Apply some soap to your cloth. Ordinary dish soap will work just fine for cleaning any wooden window frames. However, if you have a cleaning product specifically for cleaning wood that you wish to use, you should do so.

You may also want to set up a tarp, a plastic sheet, or even just a towel on the ground. While keeping your cloth damp rather than soaking wet will help, there is still a chance that dirty, soapy water will run down your window, and if this happens, it is helpful to be prepared. Having to clean up a second mess when you are done is best avoided.

Step 3 - Washing the Frame

Scrub your wooden window frame with your damp, soapy cloth. You should see results almost immediately. However, if you are not satisfied with the results after going over your window frame once, you may need to repeat the process. Rinse out your cloth, reapply soap to it, and try again.

Step 4 - Cleaning Up

It is a good idea to wash your window and the surrounding area after cleaning your frame, as it may have gotten dirty in the process. Judge for yourself whether this step is necessary.

Step 5 - Checking for Damage

There are a few easy things you can check to see if your window frames are in good condition or not. If problems are present, your window frame may require repairs.

Observe the weather stripping and the seal. They should be in place correctly and free from damage. Check for moisture between your window panes. If there is any, it is quite likely that your window's seal has a small, imperceptible leak. If you spot any of these signs, your window is probably damaged.