Extending the lifespan of windows

Manufacturers claim a 40-50-year service life for their windows, but in reality, many require replacement after 15-20 years. This isn’t due to product quality, but to lack of maintenance and improper use. Windows are mechanisms that operate daily, exposed to sun, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Without proper care, they wear out 2-3 times faster. Proper care extends their service life and saves thousands of euros on replacement.

Factors that Reduce the Service Life of Windows

Climate stress in Spain is particularly harsh on windows.

Ultraviolet radiation destroys plastic and rubber. In southern Spain, the sun shines 320-340 days a year, with an intensity 1.5-2 times higher than in Central Europe. PVC profiles without UV stabilizers turn yellow and become brittle in 7-10 years instead of 30-40 years. Rubber seals dry out and crack in 5 years instead of 10-15.

Temperature fluctuations reach 50-60 degrees Celsius between winter and summer in central regions. Materials expand and contract, sashes shift, and microcracks appear in profile welds. On the coast, the difference between day and night temperatures is compounded—up to 20 degrees Celsius in summer.

Salty air on the coast accelerates the corrosion of metal components by 2-3 times. Without special protection, hardware rusts in 3-5 years instead of 15-20. Aluminum profiles without anodizing or powder coating develop a white film and lose strength.

High humidity in northern Spain creates conditions favorable for mold and mildew. Wooden windows without regular treatment begin to rot after 5-7 years. PVC does not rot, but mold develops on rubber seals and in the joints, damaging the material.

Mechanical wear is inevitable, but it can be slowed down.

Hardware can withstand 10,000-20,000 opening and closing cycles depending on the quality class. With 5 openings per day, this lifespan is 5-10 years. Without lubrication, the lifespan is reduced by half. With regular maintenance, hardware lasts 20-25 years.

Seals contract and expand with each opening, plus they are affected by temperature changes. The rubber loses elasticity, hardens, and cracks. The average lifespan of seals is 7-12 years, but on a south-facing window exposed to direct sunlight, it’s only 5-7 years.

Insulating glass units lose their seal due to temperature and pressure fluctuations. Microcracks in the sealant allow moisture to enter. The desiccant (the granules between the panes) becomes saturated with moisture and stops working. The glass unit fogs up from the inside—this is the end of its service life.

Operating errors destroy windows faster than time.

Lack of maintenance is the main cause of premature wear. Without lubrication, hardware jams; without adjustment, sashes sag and deform the profile; without cleaning, dirt acts as an abrasive.

Aggressive cleaning with solvents, abrasive powders, and hard brushes scratches the profile and glass, damages seals, and washes away protective coatings.

Improper handling—slamming sashes, hitting them, hanging heavy objects on open sashes—looses hinges, breaks locking mechanisms, and deforms the profile.

Ignoring minor problems turns them into serious ones. A slight draft due to seal wear over a year turns into sash deformation from constant stress. Squeaking without lubrication leads to metal wear and jamming of the mechanism.

Regular Maintenance

Seasonal maintenance twice a year is the key to a long window life.

Spring Maintenance (March-April):

• Wash frames and glass to remove winter dirt
• Clean drainage holes to remove dirt
• Check and treat seals with silicone spray
• Lubricate all moving parts of the hardware
• Switch the window clamp to summer mode
• Check the condition of the mosquito nets

Fall Maintenance (September-October):

• Wash to remove summer dust and insects
• Check for leaks with a candle test
• Lubricate mechanisms before the wet season
• Switch the window clamp to winter mode
• Adjust sashes if necessary
• Check the mounting seam from the outside

Maintenance time: 20-30 minutes per window. Cost of consumables: €20-30 per year for the entire house. Service life extension: +15-20 years.

Monthly inspection takes 5 minutes but prevents serious problems.

What to check:

• Ease of opening and closing of the sashes
• No creaking, rattling, or sticking
• Condition of the seals – no cracks or peeling
• Cleanliness of the drainage holes
• No condensation on the glass
• Tightness of the sash fit around the perimeter

If any problems are detected, fix them immediately. Don’t wait until a minor malfunction turns into an expensive repair.

Professional maintenance every 3-5 years complements self-care.

The technician performs:

• Complete disassembly and cleaning of mechanisms
• Inspection of sash and frame geometry
• Adjustment of all components to factory standards
• Inspection of double-glazed windows for leaks
• Replacement of worn components
• Renewal of protective coatings

Cost: €40-60 per window. Especially recommended for large panoramic windows, sliding systems, and windows in harsh conditions (direct sunlight, salty air).

Timely replacement of consumables

Seals are the first element to require replacement.

The service life of standard seals:

• On the north side – 10-12 years
• On the east and west side – 8-10 years
• On the south side – 5-7 years
• On the coast – 2-3 years less than the stated lifespan

Signs of wear:

• Hardened rubber that has lost its elasticity
• Cracks on the surface
• Peeling from the profile
• Flattened areas that do not return to their shape
• Drafts from a closed window

Replacing seals costs €50-80 per window including labor, or €20-40 to do it yourself. This extends the life of the entire window by 10-15 years, preventing sash deformation from uneven pressure.

Hardware lasts 15-25 years with proper care, but some components wear out faster.

What to replace when worn:

• Handles - every 10-15 years or if broken (15-30 euros)
• Hinges - if loose or deformed (40-80 euros per set)
• Locking pins - if worn (included in the hardware repair cost of 80-150 euros)
• Scissor mechanisms - if jammed (60-120 euros)

Replacing a worn element prevents failure of the entire system. A broken hinge puts stress on the second hinge, which also breaks. The sash then becomes deformed, requiring a complete replacement for 400-600 euros.

Double-glazed windows, when properly maintained, last 25-30 years.

Signs that replacement is needed:

• Fogging inside the glass unit (depressurization)
• Cracks in the glass
• Loss of energy efficiency (windows have become colder)
• Outdated configuration (single-pane unit instead of double-pane)

Replacing a glass unit costs €60-150 per square meter, plus €40-60 labor. This is 3-4 times cheaper than replacing the entire window and gives new life to the profile and fittings.

Mosquito nets are consumable items with a short service life.

The screen lasts 5-7 years, then deteriorates from UV radiation. The frame lasts 10-15 years with proper care.

Replacing the screen costs €10-20 and can be done in 30 minutes. A new complete screen costs €30-60.

Protection from aggressive factors

Sun protection is critical for south-facing windows.

PVC profiles with UV stabilizers are mandatory in Spain. When ordering new windows, inquire about the UV protection included in the plastic. High-quality profiles for southern regions contain TiO₂ (titanium dioxide) and other stabilizers.

Exterior blinds or roller shutters protect not only from heat but also from UV radiation. Closed blinds during the day extend the life of seals by 30-40%, preventing profile fading.

Regular treatment of seals with a silicone spray with a UV filter creates a protective film. Twice a year, treatment extends the life of the rubber by 1.5 times.

A UV-filtering film on glass protects not only the interior but also the interior seals from fading. The cost, €15-30 per m², pays for itself in the preservation of the finish and windows.

Protection from moisture and salt is important for coastal areas.

Regular washing with fresh water removes salt from surfaces. On the coast, wash windows once a month, especially after storms and strong sea winds. Salt left on hardware can corrode even stainless steel.

Hardware with an anti-corrosion coating of class C4-C5 according to EN 1670 is mandatory for coastal areas. When replacing hardware, choose only marine-grade hardware. The 20-30% surcharge pays off with a 2-3 times longer service life.

A hydrophobic coating on glass makes cleaning easier and prevents limescale deposits from sea spray. It’s applied once a year, costs €5-10 per window, and saves time on cleaning.

Treating aluminum profiles with protective wax once or twice a year prevents oxidation and preserves their appearance. Special wax for aluminum costs 15-20 euros and lasts for several years.

Protection against mechanical damage extends the life of windows.

Opening limiters prevent the sash from striking the slopes in drafts and wind. They cost €5-€15 per window and are easy to install. They protect hinges, sash corners, and slopes.

Protective caps on window sill and slope corners prevent chipping when struck by furniture or toys. This is especially important for families with children.

Sash locks in the open position protect the hinges from overload in strong winds. A sash suddenly thrown open by the wind can tear out the hinges. The lock prevents the sash from opening beyond a preset angle.

Protective film on the windows of lower floors prevents breakage from impacts with balls and stones. Vandal-resistant film costs €30-€50 per m², but can save a double-glazed unit costing €100-€200 from replacement.

Proper Operation

Proper opening and closing may seem obvious, but many people do it incorrectly.

Closing a tilt-and-turn window:

1. If the sash is in the tilt position, first return the handle to the horizontal position.
2. Press the top of the sash against the frame with your hand.
3. Turn the handle down to the closed position.
4. Don’t slam the sash—close it gently.

Incorrect closing sequence activates the locking mechanism, jamming it. People begin to tug the handle with force, breaking the locks.

Don’t leave sashes wide open in strong winds. Wind loads loosen the hinges, which can cause the sash to hit the jamb and crack the glass. Use the tilt position or opening stops.

Do not hang on open sashes, and keep children away. The hinges are designed to support the weight of the sash, not additional loads. Loose hinges cause the sash to sag.

Correct use of the modes** prolongs the life of the mechanisms.

The tilt-and-turn position for ventilation places less stress on the hinges than a fully open sash. Use the tilt-and-turn function for regular ventilation—this saves the life of the hinges.

Micro-ventilation (if available) is the optimal mode for constant air exchange. The sash is open 3-5 mm, the load is minimal, and the mechanisms are almost completely idle.

Do not switch modes abruptly or with force. The handle should turn smoothly. If force is required, the mechanism is at fault and requires lubrication or adjustment.

Microclimate control** protects windows from condensation and mold.

Maintain a humidity level of 45-60%—ideal for windows and health. Above 65%, condensation appears, and mold develops on the slopes and seals. Below 40%, wooden elements and seals dry out.

Ventilate regularly—2-3 times a day for 10-15 minutes. This removes excess moisture and prevents condensation on the glass.

Don’t block radiators under windows with decorative screens or thick curtains. Warm air should rise to the windows, warming the glass and preventing condensation.

Use exhaust hoods in the kitchen and bathroom. High humidity in these rooms accelerates seal wear and promotes hardware corrosion.

Care Features for Different Materials

PVC windows are the most low-maintenance, but they require attention.

Wash the profiles with mild, non-abrasive cleaners. Specialized cleaners for PVC are better than general-purpose cleaners—they contain components that restore shine and protect against UV rays.

White profiles yellow over time. Use a plastic bleach once or twice a year. This is just cosmetic, but it’s nice when your windows look like new after 15 years.

Do not wipe laminated profiles (wood-effect or colored) with solvents—this will damage the decorative film. Use only soapy water or special cleaners.

Check the welds at the corners of the profile once a year. Microcracks indicate poor welding or the beginning of deterioration. If detected, consult a specialist.

Aluminum windows require coating protection.

Anodized profiles should be cleaned with neutral cleaners. Acids and alkalis will damage the anodized layer. Use special aluminum cleaners or simply soapy water.

Powder coating is more durable, but is also sensitive to abrasives. Scratches in the paint are the beginning of corrosion. Touch up any chips with special aluminum paint.

Treat the profiles with protective aluminum wax once or twice a year. This creates a barrier against moisture and salts and preserves the shine of the coating.

Check the condition of the thermal break (the plastic insert inside the profile). If it’s cracked or detached, the window’s thermal insulation is compromised. The profile needs to be repaired or replaced.

Wooden windows require maximum care, but they’re worth it.

Check the paintwork every 6 months. Cracks, peeling, or dullness are a sign that it’s time to renew the coating.

Renew the coating before serious damage occurs:

• In southern Spain - every 4-5 years
• In central Spain - every 6-7 years
• In the north - every 5-6 years

Renewal process:

• Light sanding with fine sandpaper (240-320 grit)
• Removing dust with a damp cloth
• Applying primer (if the paint has peeled down to the wood)
• 2-3 coats of varnish or exterior paint
• Allow 24 hours to dry between coats

Cost of renewing the coating: €150-€250 per window including labor, or €50-€80 for materials alone.

Inspect wood for wood-boring insects. Small holes and wood dust are signs of infestation. Insecticide treatment should be immediate.

Monitor wood moisture. Excessive moisture leads to rot, while drying out leads to cracking. Wooden windows require a stable microclimate.

Modernizing Outdated Windows

Replacing double-glazed windows with more modern ones improves performance without replacing the entire window.

If you have single-glazed windows (4-16-4), replace them with double-glazed windows (4-16-4-16-4) with a low-e coating. Thermal insulation will be doubled, and energy consumption will decrease by 30-40%.

If you live in the south, install solar-protective double-glazed windows. They reduce indoor heating by 60% and pay for themselves in 5-7 years through savings on air conditioning.

The cost of replacing double-glazed windows is €80-120 per square meter, including labor. This extends the life of windows by 15-20 years and improves their performance to modern standards.

Replacing hardware with higher-quality hardware increases reliability.

If your old hardware is difficult to operate, makes noise, or jams periodically, replace it with modern hardware. New hardware with a soft-close mechanism, multi-point locking, and smooth operation will last another 20 years.

Cost: €150-250 per window, including installation. The window functions like new, and new features are added, such as micro-ventilation and burglar protection.

Installing air inlets solves ventilation and condensation issues.

The inlets are installed in the frame or sash, providing a constant supply of fresh air without opening the windows. This prevents condensation and mold from forming, and extends the life of the seals.

Cost: €80-120 per window including installation. Automatically adjustable (hygro-regulated) valves open further as humidity increases—ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.

Replacing seals with higher-quality ones extends maintenance intervals.

Standard seals last 7-10 years. Premium EPDM rubber lasts 15-20 years. The 30-40% surcharge for replacement is offset by the avoidance of repeated replacements.

When replacement is inevitable

There are situations when repairs and upgrades are impractical—it is cheaper to replace the windows.

Profile deformation—the sash or frame has warped due to temperature, poor-quality material, or improper installation. The sash does not close even after all adjustments, and profile bends are visible.

Repair is only possible by replacing the sash (€400-600) or the entire window (€500-900 per m²). If your windows are more than 15-20 years old, it’s easier to replace them with new, modern ones.

Profile damage includes cracks in the plastic, delamination of the lamination, and through-and-through damage. Low-quality PVC profiles become brittle after 15-20 years and crack under load.

Repair is impossible. Complete window replacement is the only option.

Multiple problems — drafts from several places, worn hardware, fogged glass units, faded profiles. Repair costs will exceed 60-70% of the cost of new windows.

Replacement is cost-effective. New windows offer a 5-10-year warranty and modern features.

Outdated design — single-pane glass units, hardware without burglar protection, lack of micro-ventilation, low energy efficiency.

If the windows are 20-25 years old, replacing them with modern ones will pay for itself in energy savings in 8-10 years, plus it will increase comfort and property value.

Aesthetic deterioration — yellowed profiles, scratches, chips, peeling paint on wooden windows. The windows are technically functional, but they look unpresentable.

If the house is being sold or undergoing major renovations, replacing the windows increases the property value by 2-4%. The investment pays off.

Economics of Extending Service Life

The cost of a new window: a standard 1.2 x 1.4 m PVC window costs €400-600 including installation. An aluminum window costs €600-900. A wooden window costs €800-1200.

A house with standard 8-10 windows costs €4,000-8,000 to replace all the windows.

Maintenance costs to extend the service life:

Annual material costs:

• Hardware lubricant (for 2-3 years) — €10-15
• Seal maintenance products — €8-12
• Cleaning products — €10-15 Total: €30-40 per year

Replacing consumables every 7-10 years:

• Sealants for all windows — €300-500
• Handles (2-3) — €50-80 Total: €350-580 every 7-10 years = €40-80 per year

Professional maintenance every 5 years:

• €400-600 for all windows = €80-120 per year

Total costs: €150-240 per year to extend the service life of windows from 25-30 Up to 40-50 years.

Savings: €4,000-€8,000 (replacement cost) minus €2,300-€3,600** (15 additional years of maintenance) = €1,700-€4,400 net savings**.

Plus, no hassle with dismantling, installation, construction debris, or damage to window slopes and trim.

Conclusions

Windows last 40-50 years not by themselves, but with proper care. Regular maintenance, timely replacement of consumables, and protection from aggressive factors transform windows from a liability into an asset.

Twice a year, 30 minutes per window is a minimal investment of time to save thousands of euros. Ignoring maintenance leads to premature replacement and ultimately higher costs.

Monitor the condition of your windows, respond to the first signs of problems, and don’t skimp on quality consumables—and your windows will last for half a century without major investment.