Not everyone is well-equipped or trained at keeping a house well-cleaned. It’s easy to keep up with tasks such as vacuuming the carpet or cleaning the toilet, but some things get left forgotten. The windows are one thing people often only wipe down when they get noticeably dirty.
However, keeping those windows looking nice is essential to maintaining your property value. UPVC windows are one such investment that requires your attention. They’re resistant to the weather but are vulnerable to mildew and the like.
Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your UPVC windows clean and in good condition.
What Are UPVC Windows?
UPVC stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride. It’s a low-maintenance plastic building material that doesn’t weigh much but resists a lot of outside sources of damage. For example, it has good UV resistance and is more waterproof than many other types of window materials.
Window frames made out of this material do not contain any phthalates or BPA, which makes them safe for the environment. In addition, they resist fluctuating temperatures, can last decades, are recyclable, and come in a bright white colour.
Additionally, you don’t need to tear out your old window frames to reap some of the benefits of UPVC. There is UPVC spraying available for your home exterior. It comes in a variety of colours, so you can have blue UPVC windows.
This spray can be applied to any parts of your home’s exterior, including the doors, windows, guttering, and cladding. The process is non-invasive and uses safe chemicals. It’s also much more cost-effective than replacing all of your current windows.
The only downsides to UPVC windows are that the frames may sag and sash, and high enough heat can still rupture the frames.
UPVC Windows vs. Aluminium
There are a lot of window types out there to consider if you’re changing out your current frames. Aluminium is one of the more popular options you’ll come across, for good reason.
Doors and frames made out of aluminium are very strong and resistant to outside forces. You won’t have to worry too much about people breaking in through them. They’re also low maintenance, come in a wide range of styles, and are affordable.
The problems with aluminium frames are the same with any lightweight metal material. They’re more prone to denting and corrosion. Additionally, they function poorly at insulating your home because the material acts as a thermal conductor.
In comparison, UPVC windows won’t pick up any rust or dings. They don’t fade over time and are even more low-maintenance than aluminium. More modern UPVC can last twice as long as the alternative.
What it comes down to is your own personal desire and the area you live in. If you deal with hot temperatures year-round, then you may desire the insulating properties of UPVC. It’s also a good option for homes by the ocean since they won’t corrode like aluminium.
Caring for UPVC
One of the main benefits of UPVC is its longevity. With the right kind of care and attention, it can last as long as 40 years. Failure to take proper care of your window frames can lessen that lifespan, though.
For example, UPVC windows may develop cracks or holes. If you don’t clean them, they may also develop hard-to-remove stains.
Soap or Cleaner
UPVC windows don’t always require a lot of complicated chemical cleaners to keep them clean. In most cases, some warm water and soap will prove enough.
However, there are some cleaners made specifically for deep-cleaning UPVC without stripping the outside material. They come in the form of spray bottles, paste, and cream formulations.
Fitting Wear and Tear
Homeowners need to take the time to inspect their window fittings at least once a year. Some screws may become loose, while other parts may need to get repaired or replaced.
Liquid PVC can be applied over any visible cracks to repair them.
Glass Surfaces
As with any other glass surface, you can clean your windows with a sponge or cloth. Commercially available glass cleaners should be suitable, and you’ll want to avoid any acidic cleaning agents.
You should also stay away from microfibre cloths. Even though these are widely celebrated as the next best cleaning cloth out there, those fibre parts can wear away at your window and the frame.
Window Seals
Neglecting your window seals can lead to drafts, energy waste, and discomfort. In addition to inspecting them once a year, you should also clean and grease them. Using the right product can maintain the suppleness necessary for your seals to work properly.
Avoid cleaners containing any chlorine or peroxides. These cause a bad reaction with your seals and will shorten their lifespan.
Tracks and Rails
Your window track is the part that holds the window in place. It helps it close smoothly and can also help keep out drafts. The problem is that they easily collect dust, dirt, dead bugs, and more.
Not only can it end up looking gross, but that collection of debris will negatively affect your window. As such, it’s important to clean your window track throughout the year as part of your overall home cleaning routine.
Stuck Doors
Assuming your windows open, you want them to do so without getting stuck or making a lot of noise. This will happen if you don’t take the time to wipe down the sides on the inside of your frame.
Mould and algae may develop if your windows aren’t properly sealed. You may also require a stronger cleaner than normal soap and water.
Invest in UPVC
UPVC windows are a great option if you’re transitioning away from aluminium or other materials. They work better in salt air environments and are much easier to clean and care for. Wholesale UPVC window suppliers can help you find the best kind for your business or home.
JLR Building Maintenance offers affordable home improvement solutions out of the Southport, UK area. We offer a wide stock of colours for our UPVC windows as well as spray treatments. Contact us to learn more and receive a free quote.