How to Maintain UPVC Windows to Avoid Costly Craftsman Fees

Un-plasticised Polyvinyl Chloride, generally known as UPVC, is a low-maintenance building material used mostly for window frames and sills when installing double glazing in new structures or to replace existing single glass windows. 

It is an alternative to painted wood. The window frames’ incredible durability, adaptability, and low maintenance are due to their production utilising vinyl polymer, which is bonded to chlorine atoms, making them more durable than plastic and compatible with steel.

Homeowners won’t have a lot of ongoing expenses as a result. Here is the First Home Improvements guide on how to maintain UPVC windows and how to adjust UPVC windows.

Do UPVC windows need maintenance?

Your home’s overall appeal is significantly impacted by clean windows. With UPVC windows, very little maintenance is required because you don’t need to worry about repainting or weatherproofing if you choose this material. 

However, you will, from time to time need to maintain the functioning components and keep them clean.

When was the last time you washed your windows? Is there a significant amount of filth present, or are there only a few superficial stains that may be cleaned with soap and water? 

Be aware of the items you shouldn’t apply to UPVC directly, such as:

• Glass cleaner on any parts of the UPVC.
• Bleach, white spirits, Methylated spirits, or WD40.
• Cream cleaners, scouring pads, or sponges that may scratch the surface.
• Caustic or ammonia-based cleaning products.
• Steel wool or scouring pads.

Cleaning the window parts

Getting to ‘how to maintain your UPVC windows?’ note that after they’ve been installed you shouldn’t have to worry about buying expensive window frame cleaner as any marks or stains should come off easily with warm soapy water. 

Simply fill a bowl with warm water and some washing-up liquid and use a soft white cloth to wipe down the window frames. 

Cleaning the frame

To remove any accumulation that may be lodged inside the window frame, completely open the window and run an old paintbrush or duster over the inside of the frame. 

Once finished, vacuum the area well. Depending on how often the window is used, regular cleaning should be done.

Cleaning the channel

It’s crucial to check that your window’s mechanism still works correctly; otherwise, they can get stiff or seize up, making it impossible to open or shut them. 

Use a silicone-based spray lubricant to properly lubricate any moving parts with a light covering on moving parts.

Cleaning the glass

Avoid using glass cleaners that are based in ammonia or alcohol. Although they can appear to clean more thoroughly, they might actually leave streaks or even a thin coating that draws in dust and moisture. 

Apply a soapy solution with a soft, lint-free cloth. 

Once clean, remove dirt and soap with a microfiber cloth or a clean sheet of paper towel. To reduce streaking, rub in several directions.

Caring for the mechanical parts of your UPVC window

Carry out routine maintenance on the mechanical parts of your windows at least twice a year. In areas of high exposure, you may want to do this more frequently. 

Maintaining your UPVC window mechanisms is important yet simple. Regularly apply light oil to the metal and moving parts, paying special attention to the pivot points. 

The UPVC window turning screw may be adjusted to enhance or decrease friction. To increase friction, rotate in a clockwise manner. 

Be careful not to tighten too much.

How to adjust UPVC windows that have dropped?

Step 1

Fully open the window. This will enable you to reach the tiny screws with ease so that you may adjust the window’s height.

Step 2

When the window is opened, 4 tiny screws fastening a metal strip to the interior window frame are visible. Each of these screws should be loosened by one full turn on each side.

Step 3

You can adjust the window panel’s height once the eight screws have been loosened. The window may be moved a tiny bit up or down.

Step 4

After the window has been adjusted, tighten all 8 previously loosened screws by rotating them fully clockwise. 

After that, shut the window a few times to make sure it opens and closes properly.

Whilst the above is a guide to fixing a dropped window, this is covered under your 12 year warranty if supplied and fitted by First Home Improvements, therefore simply call our customer services department and we will arrange an engineer to visit and fix the issue.

7 General tips for ensuring your UPVC windows last a lifetime.

Here are the First Home Improvements pointers on keeping your windows and doors at their very best for a long service life for your home. 

All these tasks are quick and simple but make a real difference in how to maintain your UPVC windows.

Make it a habit to keep your windows moisture and dust-free

By regularly cleaning the windows’ tracks and the edges of the seal between the glass and the UPVC frame, moisture, and dust that accumulate there are kept out. This may promote corrosion and mould growth, which ultimately harms your windows.

Lubrication keeps your window’s hinges and locks moving freely

Hinges and other moving parts can be kept functioning effectively and protected from rust by targeted and intermittent lubricant usage.

Examine your seals at regular intervals

Your windows’ ability to properly seal will keep them operating. Because of this, it is advisable to monitor the seal and inform your manufacturer or installer of any issues that arise.

Keep condensation down

Condensation is frequently reduced after installing UPVC windows, but you’ll still need to make an effort to prevent it as new windows may not eliminate it all if your house contains excessive moisture. Your window panes may get damaged if you let moisture accumulate on them.

Tackle problems early

Although it is simple to disregard stiff hinges, blown seals, and rattling locks, our experience has shown that damaged UPVC won’t get better on its own and will become worse. As UPVC professionals First Home Improvements urges building owners to get in touch for guidance and speedy repairs, adjustments, or replacement when they run into difficulties with their UPVC windows.

Sometimes replacement is necessary

It is a sad reality that in some cases a complete replacement of UPVC windows is necessary. This may be when the maintenance and adjustments needed are beyond the DIY abilities of the average homeowner. It also may end up being cheaper to replace as this may avoid long-term professional fees. For more information on getting UPVC windows for yourself, please visit the First Home Improvements UPVC service page.