Hurricane Windows

In South Florida, windows and doors should last from 10 to 25 years before you start seeing issues.  The life span of windows of doors depends on the materials utilized and the quality of the installation.  Salt air, using inferior products, lack of maintenance, and poor installation can all lower the life expectancy of your windows and doors.  

 You should regularly inspect and maintain your windows and doors, which can extend their life expectancy.   Every six months and more, if you live near the ocean, you should clean your windows, doors, and sliding glass doors.  Maintenance includes cleaning and washing your windows and doors, checking for proper operation, and clearing the tracks of dirt and debris.

Cleaning the window and sliding glass door’s window tracks is especially important to ensure smooth operation.   The first thing you should do is use a vacuum or shop vac to remove the debris.  Next, spray a mild household cleaner and wipe the tracks with a paper towel or old cloth to remove the dirt and grime.  Paper towels tend to fall apart, so we recommend using a cloth for this job, but you can certainly use paper towels.  To get into the corners, you can use an old toothbrush, cotton swab, or wrap the cloth around a butter knife to reach into the corners.  Use a dry cloth to wipe down the tracks till they are completely dry.  As a final step, you can lubricate the track.  Petroleum-based lubricants attack dirt, so we recommend using a spray silicone lubricant.  Spray down the track two or three times and exercise the door to make sure everything runs smoothly. 

Exterior door failures are most likely caused by wear and tear in addition to weather damage, or the door becomes out of plumb from the house settling.   High humidity will cause wooden doors to swell and stick.  It is essential to direct water away from the door.  Door gaskets should be replaced every 5 to 8 years.   Fiberglass, steel, and solid core wood door can last the lifetime of your home if properly maintained.  However, in storm-prone South Florida, you should have an impact-rated entry door, also known as a hurricane-rated door, that has been installed correctly in the event of a hurricane.      

It would be best if you regularly inspect your windows and doors for water and outside air intrusion during your cleaning.  You can sometimes repair small leaks in your windows by removing the old caulk and re-caulking with a silicone caulk designed for windows and doors.   However, if you have significant air and water intrusion or your windows and doors no longer operate properly, have major rotting, it is time to look at getting them replaced.  The window or door was most likely not correctly installed, leading to its failure. 

When it comes time to look at replacement options, it only makes sense to look at impact-rated products in storm-prone South Florida.  If you have impact-rated windows and doors, you are always prepared in the event of a storm.  Plus, nothing gives your home a new facelift like new windows and doors.  You also might be able to save money on your homeowner’s insurance if you have installed all impact-rated windows and doors.  New windows and doors have a great return on investment that will pay off when you sell your home.  Prospective buyers come to expect impact windows and doors when looking for a new home. 

GM Door, Window & Screen is a family-owned and operated business.  GM has been servicing South Florida since 1968.  Call us for a free estimate at (954) 797-0797.