Photo by João
Egress windows are an important part of any home.
Not only do they provide natural light and ventilation, but they also serve as emergency exits in case of a fire or other emergency.
But like all windows, basement egress windows require regular maintenance to keep them safe and functional over time.
We understand your egress windows' importance to you and want to help ensure they last for years.
As such, here are a few tips on ways to keep them in optimal condition!
1. Inspect regularly
As we know, we must inspect all our windows regularly to keep our homes comfortable and safe.
That's why regular egress window maintenance must be done to ensure they are properly secured and working.
Check the sills, frames, hardware, and cracks around the frame for any signs of rot or corrosion that could let cold air into the home. You may also want to look for drafts in order to maintain an even temperature throughout the space.
Also, inspections should be done at least twice a year to ensure egress windows are properly secured and working as intended.
2. Keep them clean
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Your egress windows are an integral part of your home's functionality; therefore, keeping them clean is important.
Dirt and debris can cause irreversible damage if left unchecked, so regular cleaning is key. The best way to keep egress windows functionality in pristine condition is by wiping them down with a soft rag dampened with warm water and mild detergent.
Make sure not to go too abrasive with cleaner or materials such as brushes that may scratch or damage the frames of the window sill.
3. Check Window Seals
Ensuring that your basement egress window seals are in good condition is essential for keeping debris, moisture, insects, and more out of your home!
A few simple steps will help you stay on top such as inspecting them regularly to check for signs of cracking or wear and tear due to age.
And if any cracks or issues are discovered, it's best to address the problem immediately by contacting Adam Basement to replace the seals.
Inspecting and replacing your seals regularly can give you peace of mind when it comes to ensuring a comfortable environment in your home.
4. Make repairs when needed
Photo by Ksenia Chernaya
Taking care of egress windows by making repairs when needed is essential to egress window maintenance.
To address any cracks or holes in the frame, it's best to utilize sealant or caulk right away to protect against future water and weather damage. Additionally, it is essential to check regularly for loose hardware pieces like screws and hinges, which may require tightening or replacing.
Taking care of these minor window repairs quickly is a surefire way to guarantee they will remain safe and functional for years!
So, make sure to have these repairs handled by our team immediately to avoid any major issues down the road.
5. Protect against weather
Protecting egress windows for the basement against different weather conditions is an important step for homeowners to ensure that their windows are able to last through harsher seasons.
Depending on your geographic location you may need to apply for additional protection depending on your geographic location.
Let's say in winter, it's important to apply a weatherproofing sealant along all edges of egress window frames, as freezing temperatures and ice accumulation can cause cracking or warping.
Provided they’re applied correctly, these sealants can help increase the lifetime of egress windows and give you peace of mind that your home is protected during wintertime.
6. Keep them open
Photo by Athena
Egress windows are genuinely an excellent investment to help improve the condition of your basement.
Built for safety, these windows also increase ventilation in the space. If closed off or obstructed by furniture or other items, this limits fresh air circulation through the basement and can result in higher condensation levels on glass surfaces during colder months!
To maximize the potential of egress windows, it is vital to keep them open at least 6 inches (15 cm), so you can experience full benefits.
Doing so will ensure that fresh air can continue circulating throughout the space, and we recommend ensuring egress windows stay open all year round!
Wrapping It Up
Maintaining your egress windows is essential for ensuring their proper function in the event of an emergency exit situation.
Regularly cleaning the exterior frames helps keep dirt and debris from building up on them, which will inhibit their ability to open and close well over time.
Also, check for signs of damage, such as broken seals, cracked glass, loose frames, or rusting hardware, so necessary repairs can be made quickly before any further problems occur with the window’s functionality.
In addition, remember to check the security features like locks and screens so that uninvited guests cannot enter through these vulnerable points of entry into your home.
By following these tips for regular maintenance, you can ensure that your egress windows remain both safe and functional over time!
Are there no egress windows in your basement yet? Adam Basement has you covered!
Whether it's a brand-new installation or an existing window that needs some repairs, our team of qualified professionals can handle all of your needs.
Not sure where to start?
Contact us today and receive a free assessment at absolutely no cost!