Question: Every time I open Windows Explorer it is not maximized so I have to double click on the window header.

Is there some way to have it open maximized by default?

Answer: 
Eusing's **[Auto Window Manager](http://www.eusing.com/WindowManager/WindowManager.htm)** will do that (and a lot more useful things) for you.

> 
> **Automatically maximize** or minimize or normal **all new windows you
>  specify**.
> 
> 
> Automatically minimize all new windows
>  you specify to system tray.
> 
> 
> Automatically keep all new windows you
>  specify always on top.
> 
> 
> Adds several menu items to standard
>  window system menu.
> 
> 
> Minimize the current window to system
>  tray.
> 
> 
> Apply transparency effect from 0%
>  (fully transparent) to 100% (solid)
>  rate to any program in Windows
>  2000/XP/2003/Vista.
> 
> 
> Show window property of application,
>  such as window handle, class name,
>  process id etc.
> 
> 
> Auto Refresh Internet explorer at
>  custom intervals.
> 
> 
> 

*AWM is freeware.*
A VBscript that will do the tip #3 of @joe automatically (Windows 8+)

```
Dim WshShell
Set WshShell = createObject("Wscript.Shell")
WshShell.Run "explorer.exe"
Wscript.Sleep 2000
WshShell.AppActivate "File explorer"
WshShell.Sleep 2000
WshShell.SendKeys "+%{F4}"
Set WshShell = Nothing

```

Set `WshShell.AppActivate` to "This PC" if it is set be opened there.