If your home has older vinyl windows, you may be tempted to try to extend their life by fixing a few seemingly minor issues you have found. However, while you are attempting your partial restoration of the windows, make sure you avoid the following mistakes that could wind up making matters worse.

1.  Attempting to Remove Condensation by Drilling Holes

One major problem with older, multi-pane vinyl windows is the buildup of condensation between the layers of glass. This condensation happens when the caulking or glazing around the panes and windows deteriorates, trapping moisture inside the space. Then, when the sun hits the moisture and heats it up, the windows fog over.

After searching the internet to find a solution, you may have come across an idea to drill a small hole in the glass to allow the moisture to escape. However, doing so could prove to be disastrous.

While the concept behind this method is sound, the implementation of the plan is not. More often than not, if you try to drill holes in the glass, you will crack or shatter the panes. And, even if you do succeed in drilling the holes, the glass will be weaker and more prone to breakage in the future.

Since the condensation problem will not go away, consider replacing the windows. Newer vinyl windows have stronger seals that help keep moisture and cold air from penetrating the glass, which minimizes the problem with fogging

2.  Using Bleach to Whiten the Glazing Around the Frames

Another problem with older vinyl windows is that the glazing around the window panes become rough and porous through the years, which causes them to trap dirt. This dirt stains the white glazing, making the windows appear dingy. Also, with exposure to constant moisture, mildew can start to grow on the surface.

If your windows look like this, you may be tempted to whiten them up with some bleach water. However, using bleach is a bad idea since the harsh cleaner speeds up the deterioration of the glazing.

Instead, use a vinegar and water mixture with a one-to-four ratio to help remove some of the dirt. However, this will not completely whiten the glazing. If the dirt truly bothers you, replacing them with newer windows with stain-resistant glazing may be an option.

Even if you avoid the above mistakes, your old windows may still show their age and allow the exchange of air that can drive up your energy bill costs. Especially if they are old and worn out, consider contacting a vinyl window supplier to discuss your options for replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient vinyl windows.

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