One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make with their wood windows is underestimating the importance of regular maintenance. Just as with a car or truck, wood replacement windows in Fremont, CA require special attention to remain in good condition and last a long time. Most homeowners know this when they choose wood windows, but many neglect their responsibility and rob themselves of years of beautiful, functioning windows. 
If you’ve chosen wood windows in your home, you’ve chosen the most desirable material for residential windows in the nation. Even though wood windows are widely known to be among the most expensive option—and the most demanding—they still top the charts as the most “wanted” window.
Why is this? To answer this simply, wood is luxurious. It is beautiful, unique, nostalgic, and highly durable—when well cared for. Aesthetically, they’re tough to match.
Follow this short guide to caring for your wood windows from the experts here at R&M Quality Windows & Doors:
Washing
Keeping wood windows clean is essential to ensure they stay in good condition and last for years and years. Over time, debris like dirt, dust, and pollen can build up along the frames and hide trouble spots such as cracks and peeling paint or stain. Washing your wood windows includes dusting and scrubbing:
- Dust with a clean, dry cloth and don’t be afraid to scrub a bit.
- Apply a damp, soapy cloth. Again, scrub—you want to be sure to remove any debris, including small pieces that have clung on.
Spot Issues Early
Learn what to look for so you know when there’s a problem to address. For example, if you notice a crack or a bare spot (an area where stain or paint has been rubbed off or chipped away, somehow) this needs to be addressed right away. Leaving a spot to grow will cost more down the road. Occasionally (every few months or with each season change) check on the following:
- Weather stripping and seal
- Moisture between panes
- Draftiness
- Difficult operation
Each of these is an indicator there’s an issue. Caught early, these are easily addressed.
Restaining and Repainting
Over time, the stain or paint finish on your wood windows will wear down and the frames will need refinishing to avoid damage. Always sand down the frames before repainting or restaining. Use a fine grit sandpaper to smooth the surface. Also, before you repaint, it’s important to apply a primer to ensure maximum adhesion. Note: both the indoor and outdoor parts will require refinishing, though the outside will need this more often.
Caulking
The edges of the wood replacement windows in your Fremont, CA home require caulking to be protected from moisture and the damages that come along with it. Homeowners should inspect the exterior caulking a couple times each year, trim off any cracked or loose bits, and seal the gaps with high-quality exterior caulk. Note: using the wrong caulk (e.g. caulk intended for interior applications) will provide no protection against the weather.
Caring for your wood windows is vital to enjoying beautiful, functional windows for years to come. If you want to learn more about how best to maintain yours, or if you’re interested Fremont, CA replacement windows, give the team at R&M Quality Windows & Doors a call at (510) 796-0100. Our showroom is located at 5588 Central Ave. #A, Newark, CA 94560—come by and see our high-quality products!