Spring is the ideal time to do window and door maintenance. After the long cold winter months, it is a good idea to check the condition and function of all the windows and doors in your cottage or home. In addition to enhancing the lifespan of windows and doors, proper upkeep also leads to lower energy bills by helping you maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

Here are 5 Valuable Window & Door tips from our experts:

• Examine the functioning of every window and door. Check by opening and closing them fully several times, looking for spaces where air might escape, any sticking or movement issues. This will give you an idea of whether they are operating properly or need maintenance or repair.
• Examine window and door hardware. Clean dust and grime off of all hinges. Tighten loose screws.  Casement and double-hung windows may need some lock adjustments. Look around the sashes and glass for mildew stains and treat with a recommended, appropriate cleaner.
• Inspect screens for tears and holes. Clear tracks of debris and ensure that screens are sliding properly on them. Also determine if glass patio doors are sliding correctly on their tracks. You can lubricate the tracks on the screens and the gliding patio doors. Rather than use WD40 or an oil-based spray, we recommend using a silicon spray because it dries to a nice, slippery film and unlike oil, it will not collect dirt or gum up the wheels or rollers.
• Check caulking: Look for caulking that has shrunk, cracked or pulled away from the exterior framing and replace it. Caulking is critical to preventing water from entering your home or cottage.
• Inspect weather stripping and door sweeps closely.  Look for missing pieces, tears and damages. It is not uncommon for windows and doors to get stuck to the weather stripping in the winter causing rips, tears or alignment issues. Ensure that weather stripping and sweeps are intact and replace them if necessary.