How should you properly clean the glass and frames of PVC windows? How often should lubrication be done, and how should the seals be maintained?
We’ve often discussed the advantages of modern PVC windows. Their biggest benefit compared to wood or aluminum is their excellent price-to-quality ratio. Today, you can install PVC windows at affordable prices, and with the choice of higher-quality fittings, they can last for decades.
Although they require minimal maintenance, a little attention will ensure they function perfectly for many years and continue to look new.
Frame Cleaning
Clean PVC window frames using a damp cloth soaked in warm water or a mild detergent solution. Specialized PVC window cleaning products are available in well-stocked supermarkets and drugstores, but a mild dishwashing detergent solution will also suffice. The milder, the better.
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For windows that are not heavily soiled, a cloth soaked in water will be enough, but on busy city streets, a detergent will help remove dirt from the outside more easily. Using a cleaning agent reduces the need for mechanical scrubbing, which lowers the risk of damaging the delicate PVC surface.
Use only high-quality cleaning cloths. If using old cotton rags or cheaper products, ensure they are white, as colored rags can leave noticeable stains, especially on white PVC surfaces.
Glass Cleaning
Glass is best cleaned with a product specifically designed for it. However, if the glass is very dirty, as is often the case on busy streets, you can first wipe it with a cloth soaked in warm water. After removing the coarse dirt, use a second cloth and a glass cleaner to give it a final shine.
When spraying the glass cleaner, avoid getting it on the PVC. Depending on the cleaner, it may cause the PVC surface to lose its bright white color.
Lubrication
Clean as needed, but lubricate once a year. For frequently used windows, twice a year might be better. Modern windows have small holes on the fittings (metal components visible when the window is open) indicating where to lubricate.
Apply a few drops of machine oil or spray lubricant. The metal straw often sold with spray lubricants is useful here. After applying the lubricant, operate the mechanism several times to work it in.
Caring for Rubber Seals
Once a year, especially before winter, coat the rubber seals with a silicone-based product. This care prevents the rubber from losing elasticity and cracking prematurely. While lubricating with the window open, check for dirt in the grooves.
Dirt often accumulates on lower floors, especially if there are tree branches above the windows. These can be easily removed with a household vacuum cleaner. Also, ensure the holes at the bottom of the window frame for water drainage are not clogged.
Photo: Freepik, Oknoplast