Impact Window Maintenance Guide for Florida Homeowners

Critical for coastal homes within 1-2 miles of the ocean. Salt spray deposits within hours of a storm. Rinse all glass and frames from top to bottom. Extra urgent after storms.

Clean glass with mild dish soap and water using a squeegee or microfiber cloth. Wipe down frames. Check weep holes at the bottom of the frame and clear with a toothpick if clogged.

Inspect all hinges, locks, and handles for corrosion. Lubricate with silicone spray (never WD-40). Check frame seals for cracking or gaps. Inspect glazing compound around glass edges.

Have a qualified window professional inspect frame seals, glazing compound, structural attachment points, and hardware. Identify any issues before they become expensive problems or void your warranty.

Lubricate tracks and hardware with silicone spray. Never use WD-40 — it attracts dirt and degrades rubber seals.

The small holes at the bottom of the frame drain rainwater. Clear with a toothpick or thin wire. Clogged weep holes cause water to pool and can damage the sill.

Check all exterior hardware quarterly. Replace corroded screws and handles with stainless steel hardware. Apply a light coat of silicone-based protectant to metal hardware annually.

Use white vinegar diluted 50/50 with water. Apply, let sit 5 minutes, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. For severe buildup, a commercial hard water remover safe for Low-E glass may be needed.

Rinse with fresh water within 48 hours of a storm or heavy salt exposure. Do not let salt dry on the surface — it can etch glass and corrode aluminum frames over time.

Skipping the fresh-water rinse near the coast.

Salt builds up quickly and speeds up corrosion on aluminum and hardware.

Spraying lubricant on everything.

Use silicone spray on moving parts only, and wipe off the excess so it does not collect dirt.

Blocking weep holes with caulk.

Those slots are supposed to drain water out. Sealing them can trap water in the frame.

Cleaning in direct sun.

Cleaner dries too fast and leaves streaks. Work in the shade or on an overcast day.

Pressure-washing windows.

High pressure can force water past seals and damage screens and finishes. Use a hose and a soft brush instead.

Ignoring a small leak.

Repeated moisture can rot trim and damage drywall long before it becomes obvious.

Waiting until a storm is forecast.

Contractors and parts get scarce right before a storm. Do your check in spring.

Repairing without documentation.

Keep photos and receipts. They matter for warranty and for insurance conversations.

How often do you need to clean impact windows?

For most South Florida homes, clean impact windows quarterly (every 3 months). Coastal homes within a mile of the ocean should rinse with fresh water monthly to remove salt spray deposits. After any storm or hurricane, rinse all windows immediately to prevent salt and debris from etching the glass or corroding the frames.

Can you use Windex on impact windows?

No. Many manufacturers advise against ammonia-based glass cleaners because they can dull finishes and degrade rubber seals around the frame over time. Use mild dish soap diluted in water with a squeegee or microfiber cloth. For hard water spots, white vinegar diluted 50/50 with water is safe and effective.

How long do impact windows last in Florida?

Well-maintained impact windows from major brands like PGT and ESW are commonly expected to last 20-30 years or more in Florida, though results vary with exposure and upkeep. The glass itself rarely fails; the most common issues are hardware wear and seal degradation, both of which can be repaired or replaced without replacing the entire window. Regular cleaning and annual hardware care help extend the life of the installation.

Do impact windows need to be resealed?

The exterior glazing compound and frame seals should be inspected annually and professionally inspected every 5 years. If you notice condensation between the glass panes (not on the surface), that indicates a failed insulating seal — this requires a warranty claim or glass replacement. Surface seals around the frame may need re-caulking after 10-15 years depending on exposure.

What voids impact window warranty?

Common warranty violations include: using ammonia or abrasive cleaners on the glass, using petroleum-based products on vinyl frames, applying films or tinting after installation (without manufacturer approval), neglecting the care steps in the manufacturer's care sheet (many warranties expect reasonable, regular maintenance), and unauthorized modifications to the frame or glass.

How do I clear the weep holes on impact windows?

Weep holes are small drain slots at the bottom of the exterior frame. Clear them gently with a soft brush, a plastic pick, or a toothpick, then pour a little water into the sill track to confirm it drains outside. Avoid sealing them with caulk, because they are designed to let water out.

When should I have my impact windows checked before hurricane season?

Spring, before the season starts on June 1, is a sensible time to do a full walk-through: clean the glass, clear the weep holes, test every lock and operator, and look for cracked sealant or gaps at the frame. Fixing small problems in spring is far easier than doing it with a storm approaching.

What are signs that an impact window is failing?

Watch for moisture or haze between the panes, water staining or dripping during rain, cracked or shrinking sealant, a window that no longer closes or locks firmly, visible corrosion on the frame or hardware, and drafts or whistling on a windy day. Any of these is worth documenting with photos and having a qualified professional look at.