[24/02/2020]

Keeping your windows and doors properly cleaned and maintained is key to their longevity, useability and the overall aesthetic. We have formed a guide to help you clean and maintain your windows and doors to keep them in good shape all year round!

Aluminium Windows and Doors

External aluminium surfaces should be washed with clean water and a mild detergent. A soft sponge or similar should be used to make sure you don’t scratch your windows or doors. Avoid using items like abrasive chemical cleaners or steel wool as these may result in damage to the glass or aluminium surfaces. Drainage slots and sill recesses should also be checked and cleared out to ensure they don’t become blocked with residual dirt or grime.

Timber Windows and Doors

Timber windows and doors are best cleaned with a soft clean cloth. Again, avoid scraping devices or abrasive cleaners. A mild detergent with a cloth wipe-down will see the best results. Remember to rinse off any residue with clean water, and don’t use any solvents. Keep the bottom tracks clean by wiping them with a cloth. You can use a dry silica-based lubricant if required, to lightly grease top tracks and oil hinges. Make sure to open the sashes and ensure the sash hardware is operating smoothly. It’s also a great time to dust your windows, doors, frames and any surrounding objects.

Hardware

Hardware elements such as hangers, pivots and brackets can be given a light spray of corrosion preventative (such as CRC Marine 66, Innox or WD40) followed by a light wipe with a dry cloth to remove any excess. Any exposed or visible hardware surfaces should be wiped down with warm soapy water and a soft rag, then rinsed clean before applying a preventative. Application of a thin film of light machine oil or one of the corrosion preventative sprays mentioned above will help to maintain the original lustre of the metal finish. Be careful not to get these compounds on timber (if you have it) as they may cause staining. Locking mechanisms and bolts can also be sprayed with lubricant to ensure fully operational cylinders.

Glass

Clean water and a small amount of mild detergent is the most effective method of cleaning glass. After washing, any detergent residue should be thoroughly rinsed away with clean water. When it comes to glass, make sure not to use any form of blade, scraper or abrasive cleaner. If there is any stubborn dirt or residue it can be lightly sponged off to avoid scratching of the glass. It’s a great idea to clean your windows on an overcast day to ensure the sun doesn’t dry the cleanser and leave streaks in your glass.

Insect and Safety Screens

Flyscreens can be cleaned by vacuuming or washing thoroughly using a soft brush. You can add a small amount of mild detergent to a bucket of warm water. Screens can also be carefully removed and hosed down thoroughly. A soft nylon brush and a bucket of water can work wonders. Make sure that when you’re done you completely hose the screen down well and allow the screen to dry before placing it back into the window or door.

If you have a chance take a look at this window sill cleaning hack shared on Facebook by AGWA recently – what a great way to get into those hard-to-reach areas!

Cleaning Hack

For more in depth information, you can find our window and door maintenance guide on our website.