Window expert warns households to do 'five things' to prevent heat loss

An expert has shared the key warning signs that your windows could need repaired or cleaned - as it could be costing you more on your energy bills.

According to Ross MacDonald, a Senior Technical Assessor at CR Smith FIX, looking after your windows is crucial. This is because you need to "ensure their longevity, functionality and performance to keep your home comfortable, keep energy costs low and help maintain the value of your home."

Thankfully you don't need to fork out a truck load of money and replace the window itself, but simply picking up soap and water could make a massive difference.

For example, we've all probably heard that annoying 'whistling' noise when it's windy - especially at night when we are trying to get some much-needed shut eye. But as it turns out, this isn't a big deal and can be fixed by removing the silicone and reapplying it.

This will not only ensure the long-term weather tightness of your windows, but it will help when it comes to selling your home.

So how can I care for my windows?

Regular cleaning

Talking about the first hack from five of his most useful tips, the expert urges people to clean their window frames once a month with mild, soapy water. Stubborn marks can be cleaned with a non-abrasive PVCu cream cleaner.

Meanwhile, internal hardware and window sills should be polished weekly with furniture polish as part of normal household cleaning.

Simple maintenance of moving parts

It’s important to ensure all mechanisms and tracks are wiped clean and are free from dirt and grime to ensure smooth operation and prevent rusting or jamming. Ross recommends that all moving parts are lubricated every month with ‘3 in 1’ oil or a similar silicone-based lubricant.

Repair mastic and silicone seals

If you've ever been lying in bed only to be kept up by a 'whistling' sound, it could be because the silicone has become detached from external brick work. This can be sorted by removing the silicone and reapplying it to ensure the long-term weather tightness, comfort and subsequent value of your home.

Inspect seals and gaskets

The most common source of draughty windows and doors is when the rubber or neoprene seals fitted around the perimeter of the glass become detached or begin to perish. It’s important to keep them clean says the expert.

You can do this by cleaning them with mild, soapy water and ensure they are intact. Any that are worn out can be replaced to maintain insulation and prevent water leakage.

New double glazed units

If you have condensation inside your double-glazed units (DGU), this is commonly caused by the seal that binds the glass together breaking down

To rectify this, Ross says, thankfully, you don’t have to change the whole window and you can just replace the glazing instead. While you could replace the DGU yourself, it is a skilled job and he suggests contacting specialists to do it for you.

When should I call the professionals?

If you encounter structural issues or significant water leakage, it's best to call a professional as soon as possible. Window installation and major repairs require specialist tools and expertise to ensure safety and efficiency.

Remember, regular maintenance and prompt repairs can extend the life of your windows significantly, the expert warns.

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