How often should I clean my windows?

We recommend cleaning windows every 2-6 months depending on your location. Urban areas may need more frequent cleaning due to pollution.

What is the best way to clean window frames?

Use mild soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners which can damage finishes and seals.

EXPERT GUIDANCE

Window Maintenance Guide

Keep your windows looking beautiful and performing perfectly for decades with our expert maintenance tips and professional care advice.

Book Maintenance Service

ESSENTIAL PRACTICES

Essential Maintenance Practices

Regular maintenance extends window lifespan and maintains optimal performance

Regular Cleaning

Clean frames and glass every 2-6 months using mild soapy water and microfiber cloths. Urban areas: 2-3 months, Suburban: 6 months, Coastal: 4-6 weeks.

Frequency Essential

Seasonal Care

Address different needs throughout the year. Spring: inspect winter damage, Summer: check heat seals, Autumn: clear debris, Winter: monitor condensation.

Seasonal Preventative

Hardware Maintenance

Lubricate hinges, locks, and moving parts annually with silicone spray. Clean tracks regularly and check for proper alignment to ensure smooth operation.

Mechanical Annual

MATERIAL CARE

Material-Specific Maintenance

Different window materials require specific care approaches for optimal performance

uPVC Care

Clean with mild soapy water twice yearly. Never use abrasive cleaners. Apply light oil to hinges annually. Check drainage holes and use specialized uPVC cleaner for stubborn stains.

Low Maintenance Twice Yearly

Timber Care

Inspect annually for rot or paint failure. Clean with damp cloth and mild detergent. Sand rough areas before repainting. Use microporous paints and pay attention to joints.

Natural Material Annual

Finish Care

Protect painted and coated surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals. Timber frames need repainting every 3-5 years. uPVC finishes should be cleaned gently to maintain appearance.

Aesthetic 3-5 Years

SEASONAL GUIDE

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

Different seasons present unique challenges for your windows

Spring Maintenance

Inspect for winter damage, clean tracks of debris, check and clear drainage holes, lubricate hinges and locks, look for moisture between panes, replace damaged weather seals.

Post-Winter

Summer Care

Check seals for heat damage, clean glass thoroughly, ensure proper ventilation operation, monitor for UV damage, clean frames more frequently in dusty conditions.

Heat Protection

Autumn Preparation

Clear leaves and debris from tracks, check weather seals integrity, prepare windows for colder weather, ensure proper closure for insulation, check lock functionality.

Weather Prep

Winter Protection

Monitor for condensation issues, check for drafts, ensure proper operation despite temperature changes, watch for freezing mechanisms, maintain indoor humidity levels.

Cold Weather

HARDWARE CARE

Hardware & Mechanism Care

Proper maintenance prevents costly repairs and ensures security

Hinges & Mechanisms

Clean tracks with small brush and vacuum. Apply silicone spray to hinges and tracks annually. Avoid WD-40 which attracts dust. Adjust screws if hinges are loose for smooth operation.

Mechanical

Locks & Handles

Check lock alignment and tighten screws regularly. Clean mechanisms with small brush. Apply graphite lubricant to key slots. Replace damaged handles promptly for security.

Security

Weather Seals

Check for cracks or tears regularly. Clean with mild soapy water. Apply silicone spray to maintain flexibility. Replace damaged seals promptly to maintain energy efficiency.

Efficiency

PROFESSIONAL CARE

When to Call Professionals

Some situations require expert attention for proper resolution

Condensation Issues

Professional assessment needed for persistent condensation between panes indicating failed double glazing seals. This requires specialized equipment and expertise.

Urgent

Mechanical Failures

Complex mechanism issues or hardware replacement requires expert attention. This includes broken hinges, malfunctioning locks, or tilt-and-turn system problems.

Complex

Structural Concerns

Frame damage, warping, or installation issues need professional repair. This includes water damage, rot in timber frames, or misaligned window installations.

Structural

Window & Door Maintenance FAQs

For optimal window maintenance, we suggest the following cleaning schedule based on your environment:

Urban locations: Clean every 2-3 months to combat pollution buildup
Suburban areas: Clean every 6 months for standard maintenance
Coastal properties: Clean every 4-6 weeks to prevent salt corrosion

Proper frame cleaning depends on your window material:

Universal Method:

Use mild soapy water (few drops of washing-up liquid in warm water)
Clean with a soft, lint-free cloth

uPVC Frames:

Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals
Never use scouring pads or stiff brushes

Timber Frames:

Use damp cloth with mild detergent
Avoid oversaturating the wood
Dry thoroughly after cleaning

Keep your window hardware operating smoothly with these maintenance steps:

Regular Maintenance:

Clean tracks using a small brush and vacuum
Check and tighten loose screws
Verify proper lock alignment

Annual Lubrication:

Apply silicone spray to hinges and moving parts
Avoid WD-40 as it attracts dust and debris
Use graphite lubricant for keyed locks

Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation and extends hardware lifespan

Aluminium requires specific care to maintain its sleek appearance and functionality:

Cleaning Routine:

Clean every 3-6 months with mild soapy water
Use non-abrasive cloths to prevent scratching
Rinse thoroughly with clean water
Dry with soft cloth to prevent water spots

Special Care for Coastal Areas:

Clean monthly to remove salt deposits
Use aluminium-specific cleaners for stubborn salt stains
Apply protective wax coating quarterly

Hardware Maintenance:

Lubricate tracks and hinges every 6 months
Check weather seals annually for deterioration
Inspect for galvanic corrosion where aluminium meets other metals

Avoid:

Chlorine-based cleaners
Abrasive pads or steel wool
Acidic or alkaline cleaning solutions
High-pressure washers on seals and mechanisms

Composite doors are low-maintenance but benefit from regular care:

Regular Cleaning:

Wipe down monthly with mild soapy water
Use soft cloth or sponge - avoid abrasives
Clean glass panels with streak-free cleaner
Pay attention to edges and corners

Seasonal Maintenance:

Check weather stripping every 6 months
Inspect threshold and seals for wear
Verify door alignment with seasonal temperature changes
Clean drainage holes to prevent water buildup

Hardware Care:

Lubricate hinges and locks every 12 months
Check multipoint locking system operation
Tighten handle screws as needed
Test door closure and latch engagement

Important Notes:

Composite materials don't require painting or varnishing
Avoid silicone-based products on the surface
Never use pressure washers directly on the door
Address scratches promptly with touch-up kits from manufacturer

Fire door maintenance is critical for safety and regulatory compliance:

Weekly Visual Checks:

Ensure door closes fully without obstruction
Verify automatic closure mechanism operation
Check for visible damage or warping
Confirm seals are intact and pliable

Monthly Maintenance:

Test self-closing device operation
Inspect hinges for wear or looseness
Check intumescent strips for damage
Verify gap between door and frame is consistent (3-4mm)

Quarterly Professional Inspection:

Certified inspection of fire rating integrity
Check door closer adjustment and force
Verify hinge functionality and security
Test smoke seals and intumescent materials

Cleaning Requirements:

Clean with mild detergent and soft cloth
Avoid chemicals that could damage intumescent seals
Keep tracks and mechanisms free of debris
Never paint over seals or safety mechanisms

Critical Safety Points:

Never prop fire doors open
Report any damage immediately to facilities management
Keep detailed maintenance records for compliance
Only use certified replacement parts
Schedule annual professional certification

Contact professional window and door specialists for these situations:

Glass Damage: Broken or cracked panes
Seal Failure: Condensation between double glazing
Structural Issues: Frame damage or warping
Water Problems: Significant leakage during rain
Fire Door Compliance: Certification and safety checks

Mechanical Failure: Complex mechanism issues
Security Concerns: Faulty locks or handles
Operational Problems: Sticking despite cleaning
Installation Issues: Poor fitting or alignment
Specialist Materials: Aluminium or composite repairs

Professional assessment ensures proper diagnosis and prevents further damage, especially for safety-critical items like fire doors

Still Haven't Found Your Answer?

If your question wasn't covered in our Q&A, or if you require urgent maintenance or support, don't wait.

Contact Our Support Team Now

Our Accreditations

Regular Schedule

Follow our maintenance schedule to keep windows performing optimally and extend their lifespan significantly.

Proper Techniques

Use correct cleaning methods and products to avoid damage and maintain window integrity and appearance.

Professional Support

Expert assistance available for complex issues, ensuring your windows receive the care they need.

PROFESSIONAL