Whilst UPVC is exceedingly durable and therefore requires very little maintenance, in order to keep your UPVC windows looking their best (and indeed functioning well), we’ve pulled together some simple cleaning and maintenance tips. At SEH BAC, we know it can be tricky when it comes to replacing your double glazing windows. To help you start planning your next home improvement project, make sure you read our recent blog on the true cost of double glazing.
Have you got a tip you’d care to share? Please let us know in the comments!
How to clean UPVC surrounds:
When researching this article we were amazed at the number of tips out there for cleaning UPVC. For the most part it is safe to use any light household cleaners on UPVC, and a little washing up liquid diluted in warm water will remove most of the dirt from the UPVC surrounds.
However if you have heavier soiling and need to use something a little stronger we would recommend the use of a cream bathroom style cleaner such as Cif, or a specialist PVC cleaning fluid. Whatever you’re using it’s best to double check the suitability of the product prior to going ahead (most cleaning agents will tell you which materials their product can be used on). If in doubt, test the cleaner on a small inconspicuous area first.
Whichever type of cleaning agent you use, make sure that your rinse the UPVC surrounds thoroughly to ensure that no residue is left.
Likewise consider which type of cleaning cloths you are using – ideally use a soft cloth or a sponge. If you have to remove very stubborn dirt, then you could try a non-scratch washing up sponge. But under no circumstances use a very abrasive cloth – e.g. a steel cleaning pad as you run the risk of scratching the UPVC.
How to clean your windows:
We could talk top window glass cleaning tips forever and a day (but you might get bored, and we wouldn’t want that).
Personally, I use warm water with a little washing up liquid to get rid of surface dirt, then dry the window. To get rid of streaks polish with crumpled newspaper.
Alternatively there are many specialist glass and window cleaners on the market that also do an excellent job.
How to clean window sills:
Again, most light cleaning agents are perfectly safe to use on wooden window sills, provided that they do not react with the lacquer or paint which they have been treated with – again check the manufacturers recommendations – if your cleaning product says do not use on painted or varnished surfaces, then find a suitable alternative.
Basic Maintenance:
Around once a year check the moving parts of the window fittings and (if required) apply silicone grease or vaseline to the moving parts so the window continues to move smoothly.
Likewise check that none of the screws in the fittings are loose – tighten them if necessary.
Please note, most windows are supplied with a guarantee, and in order for it to remain valid you may find that any repairs need to be made by the company who originally fitted the windows. Therefore, if when checking your windows you spot something which you suspect might be a little more serious then it’s best to contact your window supplier directly, rather than trying to fix the problem yourself, as you may render your guarantee invalid. If your windows are still under guarantee then you’ll probably find that the original supplier will come out and resolve any problems for you.
