How to look after your upvc windows

caring for your upvc

It is essential that you maintain the moving items on your Windows and Doors. Most people wouldn’t dream about not servicing a car, your windows are the same. It does not matter how high quality this type of product is without regular care the moving parts will begin to fail and you will have problems with your investment. We do point out that it is essential both from an aesthetic point of view and warranty/ guarantee point of view that you must follow the below instructions or in some cases your warranty may become invalid. If you require further information then please call the office and we can guide you further on how to look after your windows and doors.

 

1) DRAINAGE

After a heavy shower of rain, you may find some water lying in the bottom of your door and window frames. This is nothing to worry about as this will drain away through the drainage holes in the base of the frames.

2) LEAD WORK

As with any lead work, when exposed to rain it will start an oxidisation process which shows a white mottled staining on the lead work. When this process is complete, the lead will be dark grey in colour and will no longer stain. This process will take a few months to complete.

3) LOCKS                                                                                              

Twice a year, spray WD40 into all locks and on to any metal to metal contact surfaces around your doors and windows. This will help them operate smoothly.

4) CLEANING P.V.C.u FRAMES

Never use anything abrasive, this will scratch the surface which will trap dirt. Wash the frame with a mild solution of washing-up liquid. If any stubborn marks remain, lightly rub with Cif cream cleaner. DO NOT use Cif on every occasion, as this will remove the shine from the P.V.C.u. Carnforth Windows also offer a cleaning and maintenance program on both old and new Pvcu products, please enquire at the office

5) GLASS
Any type of glass cleaner is suitable, except where rytec clearshield has been used - refer to manufacturer’s instructions.

6) BUILDING WORK

As with any new building work, a period of DRYING OUT is necessary. Please ensure maximum air circulation and ventilation during this time to assist the process. To test if a floor is dry, lay a square of carpet on the floor overnight. If the floor is dry when the carpet is lifted, the process is complete. Never be tempted to use electric or gas fires to speed up the drying out, as this is dangerous.

7) DOORS                                                                                                     

To ensure a draught free door, please remember to keep the door in the locked position. This will achieve a tight fit on the draught seals.

8) DOOR HINGES                                                                                             

Clean and lightly oil hinge pins. If hinges are external (open- out door) lubricate

9) LOCK CYLINDERS       Do not oil already packed with grease

10) DOOR LOCKING MECHANISMS                                                 

With the door open, lubricate the deadbolts/ hookbolts/ rollers and latchlock with light machine oil

 

11) FRICTION HINGES                                                                    

To attain optimum performance, the scissor mechanism of the friction hinges will require periodic lubrication. The pivots, sliding shoe and track should be kept free of dirt and debris.

 

12) PIVOT JOINTS                                                                 

Oil all Pivot Joints. Wipe away any excess

13) ESPAGNOLETTE LOCKING MECHANISM                                          

Lubrication as required- Keep sliding mechanism free of dirt and lubricate each slot with light oil

14) KEEPS                                                                                                       

Lubricate with Petroleum Jelly as required

15) HANDLES                                                                                                 

Clean and lightly oil moving parts

Please Note:- Acrylic Sealant used inside the property should ideally be painted to stop any cracking or discolouration. The sealant can be replaced every 5-7 years to ensure a reduction in moisture and draught infiltration.

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