Clean window tracks and weep holes

Short answer

Each spring, vacuum window tracks, wipe them clean, and clear weep holes at the outside bottom of the sill with a toothpick or wire.

Priority: Low
Difficulty: DIY
Time: 30 min
How often: Once a year
Season: Spring

Why It Matters

Blocked weep holes trap water in the sill, leading to rot, mold, and damaged sashes. Dirt in tracks makes windows hard to operate.

Tools

Vacuum with narrow attachment
Toothpick or stiff wire
Damp cloth

How to Do It

Open the window fully and vacuum debris from the tracks, working from top to bottom.
Wipe the tracks with a damp cloth to remove remaining dirt and grime.
Close the window and locate the small weep slots along the outside bottom edge of the sill.
Clear each weep slot with a toothpick or wire, pushing out any packed dirt or debris.

Clean window screens Once a year
Clean windows inside and out Once a year
Re-caulk exterior window frames Once a year
Replace window weatherstripping Once a year

Part Of

Exterior Windows

Last updated 23 September 2026

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