Care and Maintenance for your Windows

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Windows are exposed to a variety of environmental influences such as dust, soot, pollen, UV radiation, rain, heat and cold, but high-quality products are durable and relatively easy to look after. To benefit from the longest possible service life, it is important to regularly care for your new windows and doors right from the start so that the desired appearance and functionality are retained for decades. Long-lasting windows protect the environment and your wallet at the same time.

What to use for cleaning

With aluminium clad frames the best results are achieved with a neutral cleaning agent and a sponge or cloth, while for timber frames there are also special, gentle cleaning and care products that are tailored to the natural material. Paarhammer has a special care kit available from their paint supplier ADLER for maintenance and to increase the repainting cycle.

To clean the glass, simply wipe over the surface with a few drops of methylated spirits on a damp cloth, then polish the surface dry with a lint free cloth. Propriety glass cleaners are not recommended as some of them can cause damage to the coating on high performance glass and the interlay of laminated glass. Ensure that all cleaning cloths are free of any abrasive substances. Avoid causing extreme temperature changes as this may lead to thermal fracture of the glass (i.e. do not direct hot or cold water onto glass).

At least twice a year, all hardware should be cleaned to remove dust and dirt. Hinges, gears and strikers should be given a light spray of a corrosion preventative (such as CRC Marine 66, Innox or WD40) followed by a light wipe with a dry cloth to remove excess. Be careful not to get these compounds on the timberwork itself as they may cause staining. Exposed surfaces should first be wiped down with warm soapy water and a soft rag, and then rinsed clean before applying preventative spray.

Seals need to be wiped regularly with a damp cloth only, chemicals should not be used.

When to clean

  • Always clean your windows when dirt is visible on the frames. Otherwise, the deposits combined with rainwater can leave permanent marks.
  • Check the drainage openings in the window frame as these allow rainwater to drain away, and carefully remove any stuck material, grime and dirt.

Never use

  • aggressive, abrasive cleaning agents such as scouring powder or roughening sponges, cloths or brushes as these may damage your windows.
  • solvents or thinners, or cleaners with solvents – these can make the surface vulnerable. The damage to timber or aluminium frames often only becomes apparent after some time.

If in doubt, just use warm water and a soft cloth.

It may be advisable to have your windows and doors periodically checked and readjusted by a professional if required. Windows should be included in the maintenance schedule of your home as with a little bit of effort, windows and doors remain functioning, and looking as good as new even after years of service.