We take pride in the windows we manufacture and fit, and we want you to enjoy them and the trouble free usage they will provide for many years to come. With that in mind, we have put together some top tips for simple maintenance to ensure you get the very best out of your new windows.

We have broken it down into 4 key areas: Cleaning, lubrication, drainage and weather seals.

Cleaning

UPVC Frame

Avoid all solvent based or abrasive cleaners

• Wash frames with a soap and water solution every four months to remove any grime and atmospheric deposits.
• If required, clean with a non-abrasive proprietary cleaner to remove any stubborn blemishes.
• Take care not to disturb sealants.

Conservatory & Porch Roof

Avoid all solvent based or abrasive cleaners

• Polycarbonate roofing panels fitted to these structures must be cleaned in a similar manner to UPVC frames.
• Clear gutters of leaves and debris as required avoiding overflow of rain water and ensuring unobstructed drainage.
• Wash roof panels with soap and water solution every four months to remove grime and atmospheric deposits.
• Do not use any solvent or silicone based cleaners on solar control or self-cleaning glass roofs.
• It is important to clean out all boxed gutters on a regular basis, especially in the autumn time when there is heavy leaf fall.

Do not walk on conservatory roofs without appropriate supports or scaffolding.

Glass

• Float glass, used in most double glazed units, is easily scratched and it is therefore recommended that hand jewellery is removed prior to cleaning.
• Any proprietary household cleaner may be used with a soft cloth and it is recommended that heavy external grime be initially removed with a solution of soap and water.
• Laminated glass, or glass containing Georgian Bars is cleaned in exactly the same manner.

It is imperative that glass surfaces are cleaned on a regular basis to stop water staining. Water carrying atmospheric contamination will leave permanent marks on the glass surfaces if left un-cleaned for long periods.

Leaded Glass

• Take care when cleaning leaded lights as excessive pressure might dislodge the lead from the glass surface.
• The use of warm soapy water and a soft cloth, moderately applied will prove an adequate cleaning method.

Note: External lead will oxidise, this is a natural phenomenon and cannot be avoided.

Lubrication

For lubrication of hardware etc. use light machine oil (e.g. 3-in-1/Spray grease/Silicone spray) lubricant for moving parts and petroleum jelly.

 Locking Mechanism

• With the door open, lubricate the dead bolts, hook bolts, rollers and latch lock with light machine oil.

Hinges

• Clean and lightly oil hinge pins. If hinges are external (open-out door) lubricate every six months.

Handles

• Clean and lightly oil external moving parts.

Lock Cylinder

• Only lubricate (fine oil) if key entry is difficult.

Letter Box

• Wipe over with a damp cloth and lubricate on the pivot points where necessary.

 

Drainage

• Your double glazed products are designed with an in-built drainage system, comprising slots within the thresholds that allow any water ingress to flow to the outside. To ensure an efficient system these slots must remain unblocked.
• Periodically, remove dirt, clear drain holes and check drainage operation by flushing through with water.

 

Weather Seals

• During cleaning and general maintenance ensure that the weather seals fitted to your products do not become dislodged from their grooves. Should this occur, slide back into position immediately to avoid damage when the product is closed.
• If the weather seals are broken or damaged and draughts are felt around the product, ensure prompt replacement by contacting us as soon as possible.

 

If you have any issues, or queries about how to deal with any particular issue with your new windows, or are indeed looking for someone to replace your old windows or doors, we would be more than happy to help. Contact us via our online form, call us on 0121 426 2680, or pop in and visit us in our Weoley Castle showroom just 5 miles out of Birmingham city centre.