Cleaning and maintaining a residential window

Maintenance Guide

Keep Your Windows Performing Like New

Our European windows and doors are designed for minimal maintenance, but a little regular care goes a long way to protecting your investment.

Our European windows and doors are designed for minimal maintenance. Clean frames every 3 to 6 months with mild soapy water; lubricate hardware annually with PTFE or silicone spray (never WD-40); and inspect gaskets, drainage slots and seals once a year. Call WindowPlus for fogged sealed units, draughts, or stiff handles that lubrication doesn't solve.

Cleaning: Every 3 to 6 Months

Frames (uPVC & Aluminium)

Wipe down with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents or bleach, these can damage the surface finish. A soft brush helps clean drainage channels and gasket grooves.

Glass

Use a standard glass cleaner or diluted white vinegar on a lint-free cloth. Clean in the shade to prevent streaking. Never use steel wool or abrasive pads on Low-E coated glass, you'll scratch the coating permanently.

Avoid: Acetone, white spirit, WD-40 on frames, pressure washers directed at seals, abrasive scourers.

Hardware: Lubricate Annually

A light application of a PTFE-based or silicone lubricant (not WD-40) on all moving hardware keeps handles, espagnolette rods, hinges and locking bolts operating smoothly for years. Apply with a thin nozzle to reach roller guides and pivot points.

Hinges

Apply a tiny drop of silicone oil to each hinge pin. Open and close several times to work it in.

Locking bolts

Apply PTFE spray to the locking rods and bolts. Test the handle mechanism to distribute evenly.

Seals (gaskets)

Wipe with a damp cloth and apply a light coat of silicone grease, prevents hardening and cracking in UV.

Annual Inspection Checklist

  • Check drainage slots at the base of frames are clear of debris, blocked drains can cause water ingress.
  • Inspect all rubber gaskets around the glass and frame perimeter, look for cracks, hardening or gaps.
  • Check any external silicone sealant around the frame-to-wall joint, reseal if cracked or separated.
  • Test all handles, locks and tilt mechanisms, they should operate without excessive force.
  • Look for any fogging or moisture between the glass panes, this indicates a failed sealed unit that needs replacement.

When to Call Us

Some issues need a professional. Contact us if you notice:

  • Moisture or condensation forming between the glass panes (failed unit seal)
  • Draught or air leakage around a closed window or door
  • Stiff or grinding handle/locking mechanism despite lubrication
  • Frame distortion or difficulty closing a previously smooth-operating sash
  • Cracked or damaged glass, do not leave this unattended
Contact our service team

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean uPVC and aluminium window frames?
Every 3-6 months in normal conditions. Wipe down with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth or sponge, rinse thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents and bleach. A soft brush helps clean drainage channels and gasket grooves.

What lubricant should I use on window hardware?
A PTFE-based or silicone lubricant (not WD-40). Apply annually to hinges, espagnolette rods, locking bolts and roller guides with a thin nozzle. Open and close several times to distribute.

How do I clean Low-E coated glass without damaging it?
Use a standard glass cleaner or diluted white vinegar on a lint-free cloth. Never use steel wool, abrasive pads or scourers on Low-E glass - they will permanently scratch the coating.

What should I check on my windows once a year?
Drainage slots clear of debris; gaskets intact (no cracks or hardening); external silicone sealant around the frame still flexible; all handles, locks and tilt mechanisms operating smoothly; no fogging or moisture between glass panes (which indicates a failed sealed unit).

When should I call WindowPlus for a repair?
When you notice moisture or fogging between glass panes (failed unit seal), persistent draught or air leakage around a closed window or door, stiff or grinding hardware that lubrication doesn't fix, or frame distortion preventing smooth operation.
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