Maintenance

Window Care Maintenance of your PVCu Windows and Doors.

One advantage of PVCu profiles is that they are virtually maintenance free, requiring the minimum of attention to maintain their performance and appearance.

Follow these guidelines to keep looking new:

1. Cleaning the Profile:

Routine cleaning is recommended, with a warm soapy water solution, every 6 months unless you are situated in an area of heavy pollution, which may require the profile being cleaned more frequently.

NOTE: Under no circumstances should any abrasive materials be used to clean the profile. There are however, some specialized cleaning agents available which are specifically designed for cleaning PVCu, such the 'Industry Cleaner' you may receive in our 'Maintenance and Service Pack'. These specialized cleaning products should be used and handled in compliance with the manufactures instructions and safety instructions. Other PVCu cleaning products also are available at the counter at RedKite.

2. Maintaining locks etc :

It is recommended to periodically apply a light machine oil or spray WD40 to any metallic moving parts and metal to metal contact surfaces, such as locks etc.

NOTE: This does not apply to friction stays (hinges), as this will seriously affect the operation and performance of the stays.

3. Checking Handles:

Check periodically to see if any screws securing operating handles have not become loosened due to usage. Tighten as necessary.

4. Maintaining Friction Stays:

If the stays are binding, it may be grit which will be embedded in the track causing the friction block to bind. Use a clean soft cloth to remove.

5. Checking Gaskets etc :

It is advisable to periodically check gaskets, wedges and weatherseals to ensure that they have not become dislodged or damaged. Doors should be checked more frequently for this because of frequent usage.

6. Cleaning the Glass:

In most cases any type of good glass cleaner is suitable. Make sure the glass and cloth is free from grit before wiping.

7. Lead Work:

As with any new lead work, when exposed to rain it will start an oxidization process which shows as white or mottled staining on the lead work. When this process is complete, the lead will be a darker grey in colour and will no longer stain. This process may take some time to complete. Remember, lead is soft and easily scratched or damaged. Care must be taken when cleaning the glass.

8. Adjusting Friction Stays:

To increase or decrease the friction in friction stays, the small screw in the friction block can be turned either clockwise to increase the friction or anti-clockwise to decrease it. As a guide, the friction should be such that the stay retains the casement in the open position, but excessive force is not required to close it.

9. Doors:

To ensure a draught free door, please remember to keep the door closed in the locked position, this will achieve a tight fit on to all the seals.
Also, be careful when choosing a door with an 'Aluminium low-threshold' in locations of frequent or high wind and rain. Be sure the type of low-threshold used is a good seal.

Remember...

that after buying your house, having new windows and doors or a conservatory installed is the next biggest investment you could make...

Look After Them !