At Wayne Craft, we believe your sunroom or screen room should be a source of comfort and pride all year long. Whether it’s a four-season room, three‑season room, or outdoor patio system, proper maintenance helps preserve beauty, comfort, and value. In this guide, we break down how to care for various screen section types and sunroom features, so you can enjoy your space longer.
Know Your Screen Room Types
Each screen section design requires a slightly different care approach. Understanding which type you have helps ensure proper cleaning, maintenance, and long-term durability.
If you’re not sure how a screen room differs from a sunroom, you can learn more in our blog post here!
Here are the most common screen rooms:
Screens with Double Chair Rails (36” + Top Rail at Door Height)
Added structure and symmetry for larger screen sections.
Provides extra stability and aesthetic balance, perfect when aligning with screen doors or tall entryways.
Screens with Railing Built into Sections
Two functions in one: railing + screen enclosure.
Ideal when safety codes require a railing, especially on elevated decks, without disrupting the view or design.
Screens with Railing Mounted on the Outside
Used in specialty installs when interior clearance is limited.
While not used in most Wayne Craft builds, this option exists for niche layouts where space is tight.
Screens with a Single 36” Chair Rail
A clean, minimal setup with standard strength.
Popular for its simplicity and clear sightlines, this design suits most patios and porches.
Screens with an Aluminum Kickplate + 36” Chair Rail
Great for durability and foot traffic protection.
This option adds extra protection at the base, ideal for homes with pets, kids, or high-traffic outdoor areas.
Cleaning Your Screens & Glass
Screens
- Remove screens section by section, clean one side of the house at a time, and return each in sequence to avoid misplacement.
- Rinse with a hose, then scrub gently with mild soapy water and a soft brush. Let them dry completely before reinstalling.
- Inspect frames, rails, and kickplates for rust or damage while cleaning.
Glass Panels (sunrooms & four‑season rooms)
- Clean at least twice per year. or more often in pollen-heavy or construction zones.
- Use a mild dish soap with warm water and a soft cloth or extension brush. Avoid ammonia, bleach, or abrasive cleaners.
- Use a squeegee and microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish; avoid direct sunlight when cleaning to reduce residue lines.
Frame, Trim & Structural Inspection
- Gently hose and brush down aluminum or vinyl frames with warm, soapy water. Avoid power washers.
- Inspect seals and weatherstripping annually, and replace any cracked or worn components to prevent drafts, leaks, or moisture damage.
- Lubricate hinges, locks, and tracks annually with silicone-based lubricant to keep windows and doors operating smoothly.
Floor, Furniture & Decor Care
- Sweep or vacuum weekly to remove debris, dirt, or pollen that accumulates from outdoor access. Mop monthly using flooring-appropriate cleaners.
- Protect furniture from sun-based fading using UV-resistant cushions or rotate furniture placement seasonally.
- Dust and wipe walls, trim, and décor every few months to prevent buildup. Use mild soap and a damp cloth.
Ventilation, Humidity & Mold Prevention
- Maintain airflow with fans or open windows when weather permits to avoid condensation build-up.
- Use a dehumidifier if indoor humidity climbs above 50%; monitor regularly with a hygrometer for mold risk.
- Check corners, sills, and roof junctions for mold or mildew, and treat with gentle cleaners or mold inhibitors.
Seasonal & Annual Tasks
| Task | Spring/Fall | Year-Round Checks |
|---|---|---|
| Gutters & Drainage | Clear gutters to avoid pooling | Monitor for leaks around roof areas |
| Surface Inspection | Check glass, frames, seals | Address any minor cracks or caulking needs |
| Hardware Maintenance | Lubricate hinges, clean tracks | Tighten loose screws or bolts |
| Periodic Cleaning | Deep-clean glass & screens | Sweep floors, wipe walls & trim |
Proactive maintenance helps prevent major issues and keeps your space feeling fresh.
Why Choose Wayne Craft?
As a leading sunroom construction company in Michigan, Wayne Craft specializes in durable three‑season rooms, insulated patio covers, and custom screen systems. With decades of experience in installing patios, awnings, metal railings, and more, we ensure every component, from chair rails to piers, is installed and maintained properly. For homeowners searching for a sunroom company near me, Wayne Craft delivers quality you can trust across Southeast Michigan.
Whether your space is a four‑season room, screen room, or patio cover, a little care goes a long way. Knowing your screen section type, cleaning regularly, and inspecting the structure and hardware will help you enjoy your sunroom or screen room for years to come.
Interested in custom options or professional installation? Reach out to Wayne Craft, trusted among awning companies in Michigan and beyond.