Windows, Screens, & Patio Doors
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Contact a glass company for re-glazing of any windows that break. Glass is difficult to install without special tools.
Cleaning
Clean vinyl surfaces with clear warm water. Do not use powdered cleaner. After each cleaning, apply a silicone lubricant. Clean glass as needed with vinegar and water, commercial glass cleaner, or another product recommended by the window manufacturer.
Condensation
Condensation on interior surfaces of the window and frame is the result of high humidity within the home and low outside temperatures. Your family’s lifestyle controls the humidity level within your home. If your home includes a humidifier, closely observe the manufacturer’s directions for its use.
Door Locks
Acquaint yourself with the operation of patio door hardware for maximum security.
Door Tracks
Keep patio door tracks clean for smooth operation and to prevent damage to the door frame. Silicone lubricants work well for these tracks.
Sticking Windows
Most sliding windows (both vertical and horizontal) are designed for a 10-pound pull. If sticking occurs or excessive pressure is required to open or close a window, apply a silicone lubricant. This is available at hardware stores. Avoid petroleum-based products.
Storing Screens
Many homeowners remove and store screens for the winter to allow more light into the home. To make re-installation more convenient, label each screen as you remove it. Use caution: screens perforate easily, and the frames bend if they are not handled with care.
Weep Holes
In heavy rains, water may collect in the bottom channel of window frames. Weep holes are provided to allow excess water to escape to the outside. Keep the bottom window channels and weep holes free of dirt and debris for proper operation.
Alturas Homes Limited Warranty Guidelines
We will confirm that all windows and screens are in acceptable condition during the orientation. Alturas Homes will repair or replace broken, scratched, or damaged screens noted on the orientation list. After closing, broken, scratched or damaged screens are the homeowner’s responsibility. Windows should operate with reasonable ease and locks should perform as designed.
Condensation
Condensation on interior surfaces of the window and frame is the result of high humidity within the home and low outside temperatures. You influence the humidity level within your home; Alturas Homes provides no corrective measure for this condition. Condensation that accumulates between the panes of glass in dual-glazed windows indicates a broken seal. Alturas Homes will replace the window if this occurs during the warranty period.
Infiltration
Some air and dust will infiltrate around windows, especially before the installation of landscaping in the general area. Alturas Homes warranty excludes this occurrence.
Scratches
Alturas Homes confirms that all window glass is in acceptable condition at the orientation. Minor scratches can result from delivery, handling, and other construction activities. Alturas Homes will replace windows that have scratches readily visible from 11 feet. Alturas Homes does not replace windows that have scratches visible only under certain lighting conditions.
Tinting
If you add tinting to dual-glaze windows, all warranties are voided. Damage can result from
condensation or excessive heat build-up between the panes of glass. Refer to the manufacturer’s literature for additional information.