Window Maintenance – Winter Screen Removal&Cleaning

Proper maintenance of windows is essential to ensure their optimal performance and longevity. An important aspect of this maintenance routine is the seasonal removal of window screens, providing an opportunity in the fall and spring to inspect and resolve potential problems.

Indoor screen

Condensation and Mold Mitigation:

Screens on awnings and casement windows located indoors can accumulate condensation during the winter. Removing indoor window screens can help reduce the risk of mold growth and contribute to a healthier indoor environment. 

Outdoor screen

‌Prevent snow penetration:

Outdoor screens, especially those on hanging doors, sliding doors and patio doors, are prone to snow accumulation during the winter. Melting snow that seeps between the screen and window frame can damage screen channels, frames, and sills. Regular removal of outdoor screens during the winter is critical to preventing this type of snow-related damage.

The benefits of taking off screens in winter

• Add light and heat:Removing window screens can increase the amount of natural light that enters your home in the winter, combating darkness and increasing the solar heat gain coefficient of your windows.‌ ‌
• Promotes cleanliness:Winter snow can leave baked-on grime on your screen, requiring spring cleaning. Removing the screen prevents debris from building up, making for an easier, less challenging, effective spring cleaning.‌
• Extend screen life:Storing screens during the winter months protects them from harsh weather conditions. This practice ultimately extends the life of your screens, ensuring they remain in good condition when reinstalled without the need for repairs or replacements.
• Improve air circulation:Proper ventilation during the winter is essential to prevent indoor air from becoming stagnant. Removing window screens can improve air circulation, reduce problems such as window condensation, and improve indoor comfort.

Tips for maintaining window screens

• Any large objects attached to the screen should be removed immediately. Large cobwebs, leaves or bird droppings should be removed as soon as possible. Some window screen materials may be susceptible to rust or mold if not controlled. It will also make annual cleaning easier.
• Choose the right cleaning supplies. Window screens can be made of metal, nylon, or fiberglass. Choosing the right cleaning agent and method will help protect your window screens and aid in cleaning.
• Repairs and replacements can cause some confusion. If your window screen has a small hole or tear, you can repair it with a screen repair kit. If the frame is intact but the window screen material is severely damaged, replace the window screen material.

Tips for cleaning window screens

• Vacuum the window screens. Remove the window screen and place it on a large towel. This will help protect your window screens from damage and scratches. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently vacuum debris from the sides of the window screen as well as the frame and edges.Take the time to vacuum your window frames. Over time, a large amount of debris can build up, making it difficult to remove and replace your window screens. Use soap and water to remove anything left behind after vacuuming.
• Wipe window screens. Use that bucket of warm soapy water and sponge. Even after vacuuming, there is still a lot of dirt on the screen. Replace the soap and water as needed; it gets dirty much faster than you think. I find that dish soap works great for cleaning window screens.
• Rinse window screens. Once everything is clean, rinse the screen gently. This works best if you can lean them vertically against something. Make sure to rinse all debris and residue from your window screens to prevent buildup. Keep water pressure low and avoid heavy spraying to prevent damage to window screens.
• Dry window screens. When you dry your screen, be sure to inspect it thoroughly for any missing pieces or damage. Pat and dry the screens with a towel, or let them air dry if you have a sunny spot. Once everything is dry, store the screen away from the elements until spring.

Summary

By incorporating these additional points into your winter window maintenance routine, you'll not only protect your screens but also help improve the overall efficiency and longevity of your windows.