Care Guide

Maintenance & Care Guide

Learn how to properly maintain your new windows and doors to ensure long-lasting performance and appearance. Includes tips on cleaning, hardware, and seasonal inspections.

Why Maintenance Matters

Proper care keeps your windows and doors operating smoothly, protects finishes, and supports warranty coverage. Use the seasonal checklist and product-specific guidance below.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

Spring

  • Clean glass and frames with manufacturer-approved cleaners (no abrasives)
  • Clear weep holes and confirm drainage paths are open
  • Inspect weatherstripping; replace if cracked or compressed
  • Lubricate operators, hinges, and locks using approved lubricants
  • Inspect exterior sealant joints and capping/trim; note gaps or cracks

Fall

  • Repeat spring maintenance checklist as needed
  • Verify smooth operation and lock engagement; adjust strikes if required
  • Check thresholds/sills for debris; confirm door sweep contact
  • Review interior humidity/ventilation settings ahead of winter
Windows

Windows - Care Instructions

Glass Cleaning

Use soft cloth or squeegee; avoid razor blades and abrasive pads

Frames/Sash (uPVC)

Mild soap solution; avoid solvents that can damage finishes

Screens

Remove carefully; rinse with low-pressure water; air-dry; reinstall

Casement/Awning

Lubricate cranks, hinges, and multipoint locks; verify compression seal contact

Slider/Hung

Vacuum tracks; clean rollers/balances; ensure weep outlets are clear

Drainage (Weep Holes)

Locate exterior weep slots; use a soft brush or compressed air to clear debris; confirm water drains freely

Seals & Weatherstripping

Inspect for wear, tears, or loss of resilience; replace per manufacturer guidance

Condensation Guidance

Interior surface moisture can occur seasonally; manage with humidity control and ventilation. Differentiate from sealed unit failure (persistent fogging between panes)

Doors

Doors - Care Instructions

Finish Care (Steel/Fiberglass)

Clean with non-abrasive, manufacturer-approved products. Avoid harsh solvents; perform touch-ups per finish instructions. UV exposure: Overhangs help protect finishes

Hinges and Latches

Lubricate sparingly with approved lubricants

Multipoint Lock Systems

Lightly lubricate the mechanism at intervals; check engagement and weatherstripping contact. Operate and test all locking points; adjust keeps/strikes as needed

Threshold/Sill & Weatherstripping

Keep tracks/thresholds clean; verify door bottoms/sweeps make uniform contact. Inspect perimeter weatherstripping for wear; replace when necessary

Glass Inserts

Clean per glass/finish guidance; avoid ammonia on sensitive coatings or between-glass blinds

Quick Fixes

Troubleshooting (Quick Fixes)

Window Hard to Operate

Clean tracks/hinge areas; verify shimming; lubricate

Drafts

Inspect weatherstripping and latch engagement; check sealant joints

Patio Door Dragging

Clean track; adjust rollers; verify frame squareness

Condensation vs Seal Failure

Surface moisture varies with humidity; fogging between panes suggests a sealed unit issue - request service

What Not to Use

• No high-pressure washing on sealed joints or capping

• No abrasive pads or strong solvents on frames or finishes

Color Options

Warranty Coverage

Follow manufacturer maintenance to keep coverage valid. Keep dated maintenance notes/photos if requested for claims.

View Warranty Details
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I lubricate hardware?

Typically annually; verify manufacturer guidance for your specific products.

Where are the weep holes?

Usually along the bottom of frames; see product diagrams or contact us for assistance locating them.

What cleaners are safe for uPVC and finishes?

Follow manufacturer-approved lists. Generally, mild soap and water work well. Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh solvents.

Need Help with Maintenance?

Contact us for service requests, maintenance questions, or to schedule a professional inspection.