Windows and doors care and maintenance

Proper care, regular cleaning, greasing, and occasional hardware adjustments may be required to ensure the longevity, functionality, and safety of your doors and windows. These maintenance steps help keep them operating smoothly while preserving their energy efficiency and appearance. Below, you’ll find detailed guidelines for maintaining and caring for your windows at every stage.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your windows and doors in optimal condition. At a minimum, all hardware components should be maintained annually. However, in coastal areas, high-pollution zones, or close to busy roads hardware maintenance interval is six-monthly.

• Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or a non-abrasive brush for cleaning.
  Remove dirt, grime, and salt deposits regularly using a mild detergent and warm water. Avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive tools. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• Lubrication: Grease all moving parts and locking points with high-quality, resin-free, and acid-free lubricants annually, or more frequently in harsh environments.
• Inspection: Check all hardware components for damage, wear, and proper fit. Ensure smooth operation by opening and closing the windows and inspect gaskets for elasticity and proper sealing. If you notice difficulty in operation, your windows scrape the frame or fail to close properly, it is likely an indication that your windows or doors need adjustment. Refer to the Owner’s Manual for instructions if you are an owner-builder, or contact your builder or a professional for assistance.
• Correct Operation (Tilt-and-Turn windows and doors only): Tilt-and-turn windows and doors must be operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure their longevity and proper functioning. Incorrect operation may cause damage and impair their safety. Click for instructions: How to Operate Tilt-and-Turn Windows and Doors

• Use a soft cloth or a non-abrasive brush for cleaning.
• Avoid aggressive or flammable cleaning agents that could damage the surfaces or gaskets.
• Keep cleaning fluids away from the lock or cylinder to prevent damage to internal mechanisms.
• After cleaning, grease the moving parts and apply a thin protective film to the hardware for added protection.

Lubricate the following components:

1. Scissors and point of entry on the top guide blocks
2. Pin guiding slot on the bogie and guide block point of entry
3. Frame components and locking cams
4. Bullet catch on the center lock

Refer to illustration of lubricating points below:

[1] Grease[A] Grease the guide track along its entire length

Key cylinders should be lubricated at least once a year or when there are signs of roughness when inserting or retracting the key. Remove any dirt, grime and salt deposits on and around the end of the cylinder barrel, and apply a small amount of lubricant to the key blade and insert the key into the lock barrel to maintain a smooth action. 

If you plan to paint or varnish the window frames, take extra precautions to avoid contact with the hardware. Cover the hardware components to protect them from damage or contamination.

Repairs to windows must be performed by qualified professionals to ensure safety and proper functioning. This includes:

• Adjusting hardware.
• Replacing damaged components.
• Installing or removing windows.

Only approved spare parts, such as stainless steel screws, must be used for any repairs.

Improper repairs can compromise the safety and efficiency of your windows. Always have repair work performed by a specialist company to ensure the highest standards of safety and functionality. Never attempt makeshift repairs or use unapproved components.

By following these care and maintenance guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your windows, maintain their efficiency, and ensure your home remains secure, comfortable, and energy-efficient.