How to look after your new windows & doors
Following these guidelines will assist in keeping your installed units looking good and working effectively for many years to come.
Never use anything abrasive, this will scratch the surface which will trap the dirt. Wash the frames with a mild solution of washing-up liquid. If any stubborn marks remain, lightly rub with cream cleaner. DO NOT use on every occasion, as this will remove the shine from the UPVC.
To keep your hardwood in tip-top condition will probably only require a wash down with clean warm water and left to dry naturally. However, annually another coat of microporous sealant will need to be applied to maintain protection from the elements. Make sure the surface is clean, dry and dust free before application and only use microporous sealants as they allow the wood to breathe.
Any type of glass cleaner is suitable.
Twice a year, spray WD40 or similar silicone based products into all moving parts where metal contact occurs around your doors and windows. This will help keep them operating smoothly. If you need to tighten or loosen the friction hinges fitted to your windows simply open the window, insert a small screwdriver into the head of the adjusting screw on the hinge and turn slowly until you have achieved the desired effect. Should all parts fail due to lack of maintenance, a service charge may apply.
The mechanisms that operate front and back doors are almost identical so these instructions apply to both. Whilst the door will hold closed on the latch alone, it is not intended to be either draught proof or secure. To achieve draught proofing, the handle should be lifted to almost vertical and then allowed to return to horizontal. This engages the mechanism into steel plates on the frame.
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 or evaporate through drainage holes in the base.
Door and window finishes vary, some have a polished factory finish with a protective colourless coating of lacquer. The life of the protective coating is dependent upon the atmospheric conditions in your region or damage caused by jewellery etc. breakdown can occur at any time and is not indicative of defective manufacture. ON NO ACCOUNT must any type of abrasive cleaner be used.
As with any new lead work, when exposed to rain, it will start an oxidisation process which shows as white or 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.
To ensure effective drainage, leaves and debris should be cleared from guttering on houses and conservatories.
