How to keep aluminum windows and doors in good condition? Some practical tips

Regular cleaning: the basis of longevity

While aluminum is a corrosion-resistant material, windows and doors made of it need regular cleaning — in particular if they are exposed to the elements. Dust, dirt, rain deposits, or urban pollutants can build up on profiles and windowpanes, forming a layer that not only looks ugly, but can also cause scratches or undermine the protective coating.

How to effectively clean aluminum windows?

• Use a soft cloth and warm water with some gentle detergent. Avoid aggressive chemicals that can damage the profile coating.

• For more difficult stains, such as soot marks or greasy deposits, try special products designed for aluminum.

• Once you have washed the frames, wipe them with a dry cloth to prevent streaks. This simple step will help keep them aesthetically pleasing and shiny.

Seal care – bear these things in mind!

Seals form an integral part of every aluminum window and door. One of their functions is to maintain tightness and thermal and acoustic insulation, so be sure to regularly check and maintain them. Poorly maintained seals can lose their elasticity, and this will negatively affect their thermal insulation properties.

How to take care of seals?

• At least once a year, clean seals with a damp cloth and then treat them with a special rubber care product to improve their flexibility.

• Make sure to check them for any abrasion or damage. If you spot any changes, replace the seal to prevent heat loss and increased heating bills.

Lubricating fittings for easy opening and closing of windows and doors

Fittings are another component that require periodic maintenance. Lubricating hinges and locks will help you not only avoid problems with jamming doors or windows, but also extend the life of the entire system. What should you keep in mind?

• Lubricate hinges and mechanisms at least once a year. Use products intended for aluminum to prevent corrosion.

• Check the condition of fittings and make sure that no component is loose. If necessary, tighten screws or replace damaged parts.

• If your aluminum windows have a tilt function, take note of how efficient the tilt mechanism is – keeping it in good condition is equally important.

Check the tightness – a simple test method

After long years of use (or in the absence of proper cleaning and maintenance), windows can lose their insulating properties. If you feel a draft in the room, do a simple leak test to identify any leaks. While the test will not replace professional evaluation and expertise, it will serve as a good starting point.

How to do the test?

1. Put a piece of paper between the frame and the window sash and close the window.

2. Try to pull out the piece of paper – if it comes out smoothly, it means that the window is not fully tight.

3. In this situation, it is a good idea to get in touch with the service center to make an adjustment.

Protection from the weather

When it comes to aluminum windows and doors installed on terraces, balconies, or gardens, remember to protect them from intense UV rays and moisture. Although aluminum itself is a weather-resistant material, regular maintenance of aluminum windows and doors can help prevent the loss of aesthetic appeal and damage to the paint finish.

What should you keep in mind?

• If there is heavy rain or hail in your area, think about fitting protective canopies over terrace or balcony windows.

• During the summer, it is a wise idea to wash the frames a bit more often to remove deposits that can accelerate the wear of the coating.

• Every few months (or years), apply a special seal care product to keep door seals in good condition and provide adequate insulation, protecting the interior from moisture and wind.

Use professional services

You know now how to keep aluminum windows and doors in good condition, don’t you? While there are a number of maintenance tasks that you can perform on your own, regular maintenance done by a professional service center is the best way to ensure that your doors and windows are always in top condition. This type of service is offered by numerous companies in Poland, and a periodic check-up makes it possible to have a thorough look not only at the fittings or seals, but also at the condition of the entire frames. By taking care of aluminum windows and doors, you can expect to keep them functional and looking great for many decades to come.

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