How to Properly Maintain Plastic Windows: 7 Tips

Tip 1: Do Not Use Aggressive Chemicals to Clean the Frame

Unlike wooden frames, plastic profiles do not need sanding or repainting – it is sufficient to occasionally (at least once every six months) clean them of dust and dirt. The best way is to do it with a regular cloth or sponge without a harsh, scratching surface. For cleaning agents, choose those that do not contain alcohol, chlorine, acetone, alkali, acids or abrasive particles: all of these can harm the plastic.

The ideal option is a special cleaning product for plastic windows or degreasing agent or soap solution.

Tip 2: Pay Attention to Seals

Proper and regular care is also necessary for high-quality seals to preserve their water-repellent and elastic properties for longer. It is useful to clean the seals of accumulated dust and dirt at least twice a year: at the beginning of summer and before the arrival of cold weather.

For this purpose, a soft sponge or cloth moistened in regular soap solution can be used. After washing, the seals are dried and treated with silicone lubricant (you can also use a product for automotive seals). It is important not to allow alcohol-containing products to come into contact with rubber seals.

Tip 3: Prevent Clogging in Drainage Holes

If the drainage holes become clogged, excess moisture will remain within the frame and negatively affect the quality of PVC structures. To see the water drainage channels, open the sash and look at the holes in the lower part of the frame. Regularly clean them of clogs and dirt.

Tip 4: Regularly Lubricate Hardware with Oil

The functionality of plastic windows largely depends on the quality of hardware operation. All its moving parts should be treated with oil (regular machine oil is suitable) one to two times a year. Be sure that the lubricant does not contain acids or resins – they harm the anti-corrosion coating of the products.

It is not recommended to wash locks and hinges: it is enough to wipe off dust with a cloth and apply lubricant. Do not allow excessive load on the window sash, so it is not advisable to dry clothes or place foreign objects on them. If the handle mounting is noticeably weakened, lift the strip underneath it, turn it into a horizontal position and tighten the screws underneath.

Tip 5: Sand Minor Cracks on the Plastic Surface

Even when all usage rules are followed, no one is immune to minor irregularities, chips or scratches appearing on plastic windows. Depending on the damage, appropriate tools and equipment for sanding and polishing PVC structures are selected. It is better to leave this task to professionals.

However, for colored plastic, sanding is not recommended. Its retouching is done using a special paint-containing pencil.

Tip 6: Ventilate the Room More Often

Even with the best PVC structure manufacturer, it is difficult to avoid «crying» windows if the humidity in your home is too high and stuffy. The simplest rule – ventilate the room more often (a micro-ventilation system is sufficient) so that moisture accumulated on hermetic glass evaporates faster.

Also, do not clutter the windowsill with houseplants, aquariums and humidifiers – all of these increase humidity in the room. Installing a supply-exhaust ventilation system will also be a good solution.

Tip 7: Maintain the Mosquito Net

The insect-proof mesh is a pleasant bonus that is often included with the purchase of plastic windows. It is mainly used in warm months, so it is recommended to remove and store it in a warm room during the winter. The mesh should be cleaned of dirt at least once a year: vacuum it, sweep with a soft brush and wipe with a soap solution.

If you want to keep your windows beautiful, ensure that installers remove the protective film immediately after completing work. This may seem ridiculous, but many new window owners leave the protective film untouched after installation, not out of forgetfulness, but sincerely believing that it can be done later and «let’s keep it for now».

This is a big mistake: over time, some components of the film migrate into the profile and can change its color so that even the strongest solvent will not help.

Choose Professional Cleaning Products

Many profile manufacturers have special cleaning products and window care kits in their product range. Using them helps avoid risks associated with low-quality materials.