Egress Window Maintenance: Essential Tips for Proper Care and Functionality

Maintaining and properly caring for your egress windows is an important part of ensuring that they remain functional and effective in the event of an emergency. Egress windows serve as a means of escape in the event of a fire or other emergency, and it's crucial to keep them in good working condition. Here are a few egress window maintenance tips to keep them in top condition.

General Cleaning and Inspection

Remove Dirt and Debris

First, it's important to regularly clean your egress windows to remove any dirt, debris, or other buildup that could interfere with their operation. Use a soft cloth or sponge and a mild soap solution to gently wipe down the window and frame, paying particular attention to the hinges and moving parts. Be sure to dry the window thoroughly to prevent water spots or streaks.

Inspect

Next, you should inspect your egress windows regularly to make sure that they are functioning properly. Open and close the window several times to make sure that it moves smoothly and easily, and check the hinges and other moving parts for any signs of wear or damage. Therefore, if you notice any problems, such as a stuck window or loose hinges, it's important to address them promptly to prevent further damage or malfunction. Regular inspection is a key aspect of egress window maintenence.

Lubrication

It’s important to lubricate the moving parts of your egress windows to keep them operating smoothly. Use a silicone-based lubricant or a product specifically designed for windows to lubricate the hinges and other moving parts. Lubrication will help to prevent the window from sticking or becoming difficult to open and close. If you still have difficulties operating the window, consider having a professional check and adjust it.

Weatherproofing

Caulking 

Egress windows are designed to provide a means of escape in the event of an emergency, but they can also provide a means of entry for outside air and moisture if they are not properly sealed. This can lead to drafts, condensation, and other problems that can affect the comfort and energy efficiency of your home.

To properly seal and weatherproof your egress windows, start by inspecting the window and the surrounding area for any gaps, cracks, or other openings that could allow air or moisture to enter the home. Pay particular attention to the areas around the window frame, the corners, and the edges of the window, as these are common areas where gaps and cracks can occur.

Use high-quality caulk to seal any cracks up. Caulk is a flexible, waterproof material that can be used to fill gaps and seal openings around windows, doors, and other areas of the home. Choose a caulk that is specifically designed for windows and doors.

Weatherstripping

You should also keep an eye on the weatherstripping and seals around your egress windows to ensure that they are in good condition. Over time, weatherstripping and seals can become brittle, cracked, or compressed, which can lead to drafts, moisture, and other problems. Check the weatherstripping and seals regularly, and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage. It comes in a variety of different materials, including rubber, foam, and metal, and it can be easily installed using adhesive backing or nails. Choose a weatherstripping material that is compatible with your window type and the conditions in your area.

Accessibility

Interior

Another important step is to make sure that the window is easy to open and close from the inside. In an emergency situation, time may be of the essence, and you must be able to open the window quickly and easily to provide a means of escape. If the window is stuck, difficult to operate, or requires a special tool to open, it may not be useful in an emergency. 

Exterior

In addition to regular cleaning and inspection, there are a few other steps you can take to ensure that your egress windows are functioning properly and serving their intended purpose. One important step is to make sure that the window well around your egress window is clear and accessible. The window well is the area surrounding the window that provides space for a person to climb out of the window and reach the ground. A cluttered, obstructed, or overgrown window well can make it difficult or impossible to use the egress window in an emergency.

To keep the window well clear and accessible, remove any debris, trash, or other objects that could block the window or the surrounding area. Trim any plants or vegetation that could obstruct the window or make the area difficult to navigate. Be sure to also keep the window well free of snow and ice in the winter, as these can make the area slippery and unsafe.

Ready for Action! 

By taking these steps to maintain and care for your egress windows, you can help to ensure that they are ready and able to serve their intended purpose in the event of an emergency. Proper care and maintenance will also help to extend the life of your egress windows and prevent the need for costly repairs or replacements.

If you're looking to add an egress window to your home, check out our shop. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to reach out to us.