How to maintain your aluminium windows for longevity
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Published on 10 October 2024
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Aluminium windows have become a popular choice in homes and commercial buildings across the UK due to their durability, sleek appearance, and energy efficiency. However, like any other part of your home, they require regular care and attention to stay in top condition. Proper aluminium window maintenance is key to ensuring their longevity, maintaining their aesthetic appeal, and keeping them functioning smoothly for years.
Benefits of Aluminium Windows
Before diving into the specifics of aluminium window maintenance, it’s worth revisiting the benefits that make these windows such a popular option:
Durability: One of the main reasons homeowners and businesses choose aluminium windows is their incredible durability. Unlike wood, aluminium doesn’t warp, rot, or swell when exposed to moisture, making it ideal for the often wet and unpredictable UK climate.
Low-Maintenance: While all windows need some level of upkeep, aluminium windows are relatively low-maintenance compared to other materials. With just a bit of regular cleaning and care, they can look great for decades.
Energy Efficiency: Modern aluminium windows often come with advanced glazing options, which provide excellent insulation, helping to reduce energy costs. They’re also recyclable, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Stylish Design: Aluminium windows offer slim, sleek frames that maximise the amount of natural light entering your home. They can be powder-coated in various colours to match your home’s exterior, offering both functionality and aesthetics.
By keeping your aluminium windows in good condition, you not only protect your investment but also enhance the comfort and value of your home.
How Often Should You Maintain Aluminium Windows?
Although aluminium windows are known for their durability, regular maintenance is still essential to prevent minor issues from becoming larger problems. How often you need to perform aluminium window maintenance depends on several factors:
Location: Homes near the coast, where salty air can accelerate corrosion, may require more frequent upkeep. Similarly, properties in urban areas prone to pollution may need more regular cleaning.
Weather Exposure: Windows exposed to heavy rainfall, strong winds, or intense sunlight will benefit from more frequent checks.
Environment: If your windows are near trees, dirt and debris can accumulate more quickly, meaning they’ll need cleaning more often.
Recommended Maintenance Schedule:
Monthly Cleaning: At least once a month, wipe down the frames and glass to remove dust and dirt.
Quarterly Inspections: Every three months, inspect the seals, lubricate the moving parts, and check for any signs of corrosion or damage.
Annual Deep Clean: Once a year, consider doing a more thorough cleaning, including polishing the frames and addressing any minor damage or wear.
Basic Cleaning Procedures
Regular cleaning is one of the simplest yet most effective steps in aluminium window maintenance. Dust, grime, and pollutants can accumulate on the frames and glass, affecting both the appearance and functionality of your windows. By following these basic cleaning procedures, you can keep your aluminium windows looking as good as new.
Materials You’ll Need:
A soft cloth or sponge
Mild detergent or soapy water
A bucket of warm water
A non-abrasive brush
A microfiber cloth for drying
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
Prepare the Area: Before you begin, clear the window sill of any items that might get in the way. Lay down a towel or cloth to catch any water runoff.
Remove Loose Dirt and Dust: Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove any loose dirt, dust, or cobwebs from the window frame and tracks. This will prevent scratching the surface during cleaning.
Clean the Frame: Dip a soft cloth or sponge in soapy water made from a mild detergent. Gently scrub the aluminium window frame, paying special attention to corners and crevices where dirt may accumulate. Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools that could scratch the surface.
Clean the Glass: For the glass panes, use a standard glass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water for a streak-free shine. Wipe in circular motions to avoid leaving streaks behind.
Rinse and Dry: After scrubbing the frames and glass, use clean water to rinse off any soap residue. Dry the aluminium windows with a microfibre cloth to avoid water spots.
Clean the Window Tracks: Don’t forget the window tracks! Dirt and debris can build up here, making it difficult to open and close the window smoothly. Use a brush or a small vacuum nozzle to clear out any obstructions.
By incorporating this basic cleaning routine into your regular aluminium window maintenance, you can ensure your windows remain in excellent condition.
How to Prevent Corrosion and Oxidation
Although aluminium windows are naturally resistant to rust, they are still susceptible to corrosion and oxidation over time, especially if they are exposed to salty air or high humidity levels. Preventing and managing oxidation is essential for maintaining the longevity and appearance of your windows.
What is Oxidation?
Oxidation occurs when aluminium reacts with oxygen, leading to the formation of a dull, whitish layer on the surface of the window frame. While this oxidation layer actually helps protect the aluminium from further damage, it can affect the look of your windows if not addressed.
Preventing Corrosion:
Regular Cleaning: The first and most important step to prevent corrosion is keeping your aluminium windows clean. Dirt, moisture, and pollutants can speed up the corrosion process, so ensure you wipe down the frames regularly.
Apply Protective Coatings: You can use protective wax or a silicone-based sealant to coat the aluminium window frames, which will act as a barrier against moisture and pollution. These products are widely available and easy to apply.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: When cleaning, avoid using strong acids or alkaline-based cleaners, as these can damage the protective oxide layer of the aluminium. Stick to mild soap and water, or specialised aluminium cleaners.
Install Window Awnings: If your aluminium windows are exposed to constant rain or intense sunlight, consider installing awnings or shades to reduce direct exposure. This can help protect the frames from water damage and excessive heat.
Treating Oxidation:
If you notice signs of oxidation (a chalky residue on the surface), don’t worry. Here’s how to treat it:
Clean the Surface: First, use a mild soap and water mixture to clean the affected area.
Use a Specialised Cleaner: Purchase a cleaner specifically designed to remove oxidation from aluminium. Follow the product instructions carefully.
Polish the Frame: Once the oxidation is removed, polish the aluminium using a soft cloth and an appropriate polish to restore its shine.
With regular aluminium window maintenance, you can prevent oxidation from becoming a significant issue and keep your windows looking sleek and new.
Lubricating Moving Parts
Another essential aspect of aluminium window maintenance is lubricating the moving parts of your windows, such as hinges, locks, and sliders. Over time, these components can become stiff or difficult to operate, leading to wear and tear. Proper lubrication ensures that your windows open and close smoothly, reducing friction and prolonging their lifespan.
Why Lubrication is Important:
Prevent Wear and Tear: Friction between moving parts can cause them to wear down over time. Lubrication reduces this friction, ensuring a longer lifespan for your window mechanisms.
Ensure Smooth Operation: Proper lubrication allows your windows to open and close with ease, making them more functional and convenient to use.
Prevent Rusting: Even though aluminium windows themselves do not rust, the metal components such as hinges and screws might be prone to rusting. Lubricants provide a protective coating that helps prevent rust.
How to Lubricate Aluminium Windows:
Choose the Right Lubricant: Use a silicone-based lubricant or a multipurpose oil like WD-40. Avoid grease-based lubricants, as these can attract dust and grime, causing more harm than good.
Clean the Moving Parts: Before applying any lubricant, clean the moving parts with a dry cloth to remove dirt and debris. You can use a small brush or toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas.
Apply the Lubricant: Spray or apply a small amount of lubricant to the window hinges, locks, and sliders. Open and close the window several times to ensure the lubricant spreads evenly across the parts.
Wipe Off Excess: After lubricating, use a cloth to wipe off any excess lubricant, especially from areas where it might attract dirt.
By regularly lubricating the moving parts of your aluminium windows, you can ensure smooth operation and avoid costly repairs in the future.
Choose MG Windows today!
Looking to enhance your home with stylish and durable aluminium windows? Look no further than MG Windows! Our extensive range of aluminium windows combines modern design with exceptional energy efficiency, perfect for any property. Explore our gallery to see the stunning options available and get inspired for your next home improvement project. Our expert team is ready to assist you with any questions and help you find the ideal solution for your needs. Don’t wait—contact MG Windows today to discover how our aluminium windows can transform your home!
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