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Steel windows are durable and last a long time, but not in all weather conditions. If you live near the ocean, these windows might not be the best choice, as the saltwater breeze can corrode the metal. Steel windows are also more expensive than other types of windows. However, with that high price point comes a sleek, distinctive design that many homeowners find appealing, especially for modern decor. You can also restore steel windows to get a longer lifespan from them, so they can last longer than vinyl, aluminum, and even wood.

When your double-hung window upper sash keeps falling down, it means you could be letting out warm air in the winter or cool air from the AC in the summer. That means your HVAC system works harder to warm or cool the house, costing you extra on electric bills.

If the lower sash continues to fall down, it means when you’ve popped open the window for fresh air, it could slam shut. In addition to being inconvenient, this could be dangerous if you have small kids, children, or pets that like to hang out by the window.

It’s easy to tell if you have low-E windows. Light a match or grab a pen light and hold it up to your windows. You should see multiple reflections in the window—four for double-pane windows. If one of the reflections is a slightly different color than the other three, you have low-E windows. If you don’t have low-E windows, all the reflections will be the same color.

You should avoid using abrasive materials and harsh chemicals when cleaning windows. Abrasive tools like scrubbing pads, rough cloths, or steel wool can permanently scratch and damage the glass. Harsh chemical cleaners containing alcohol or ammonia can damage window treatments, frame materials, and special features like tinting. It is also best to use distilled or filtered water instead of hard water, which can leave spots or streaks. For best results, use a clean microfiber cloth to wash the glass and old black and white newspapers to dry it without leaving streaks.