Well-made windows can last for decades if they’re maintained well. These easy fixes will have your windows in tip top shape in time for the open-window weather that’s coming soon.
Buy silicone spray lubricant at the hardware store to get old windows moving again. Spray lubricant onto a rag and wipe along window tracks. This is safe for metal, plastic, or wood surfaces.
Via Real Simple
Lubricate a Difficult Window Latch
Open the latch and rub an old candle all over the mechanism. Open and close the latch a few times to fully lubricate. A skinny taper is perfect for getting around intricate hardware.
Dirty screens ruin your view and mess with air quality. Clean them up by pulling off dust with a lint brush or vacuum cleaner. If grime is extra caked-on, remove screens and gently clean with a rag or toothbrush and warm soapy water.
via BrightNest
Want window screens that keep your home cooler? Find Exterior Solar Screens at Blinds.com.
Trim existing hole so edges are straight and even. Cut a patch slightly larger than hole and apply with fast drying glue. Use low-tack painter’s tape to hold in place until dry.
via Martha Stewart
If you have a channel frame screen, the mesh is held in place with a plastic string called spline that sits fits a channel. Use a small screwdriver to pry spline out of all four sides of the frame. Cut replacement screening about 1 inch past the channel on all sides.
Remove old spline – via Martha Stewart
Use a spline roller (similar to a blunt pizza cutter) to press the screening into the channel, creating a trough for new spline. Cut spline to the length of the top edge of the frame. Starting in a corner, press spline into the channel using the roller to get a tight fit. Continue along other sides, keeping a tight fit. If a wrinkle appears, remove spline and start over. Remove excess screen with a utility knife. If you are working with wooden molding screens, follow directions here.
Create groove and insert new spline – via Martha Stewart
Are your screens beyond repair? Order replacement exterior insect screens at Blinds.com.
Upgrade Blinds with a Natural Touch
If your wood blinds are warped or cracked with age, it may be time to replace them. Faux wood blinds will hold up better in humid locales because they aren’t susceptible to moisture damage. Bring the organic warmth of North American basswood to your home with Wood and Faux Wood Blinds – on sale now at Blinds.com.
Keep Improving!
Ready to dive into a mini-remodeling project before summer arrives? Find more do-able home improvement fixes on our Pinterest Board, DIY for the Home. Pin with us @BlindsDotCom.
