0%APR

Monthly Experience Prize Draw! - How to play

Christmas Closure: We close at 3pm on Thursday 21st December and re-open Tuesday 2nd January at 8am.

Three counties - low maintenance frames Three Counties Primary Logo

Caring for uPVC Windows and Doors

(5 min read)

Quick FAQs

Can I use a glass cleaner on my uPVC windows?

Yes, you can use a glass cleaner on the glass portion of your uPVC windows, but warm soapy water is recommended. Avoid getting any glass cleaner on the frames as it can cause discolouring to the plastic.

Can I paint my uPVC windows and doors?

No, painting your uPVC windows and doors can cause damage and void any warranties. uPVC windows are designed to be low maintenance and do not need to be painted.

uPVC windows and doors are a popular choice for homeowners due to their durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance requirements. However, to keep them looking and functioning at their best, it’s important to take proper care of them. In this article, we’ll go over some dos and don’ts for caring for uPVC windows and doors.

Caring for uPVC windows and doors: The Dos

Do clean uPVC windows and doors regularly

Regular cleaning is essential to keep your uPVC windows and doors looking their best. Use a soft cloth and warm soapy water to wipe down the frames and glass. Use a white cloth, as a coloured cloth may leak dye and stain the plastic.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads as they can scratch the surface. Glass cleaner should also be avoided, if possible, as it can discolour the uPVC.

Particularly dirty uPVC doors or window frames may benefit from being cleaned using a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts warm water. Uncoloured multipurpose cream cleaners will also work well on most types of dirt. Most types of washing-up liquid are also effective on coloured or grey window frames and doors.

Take extra care if using cleaning agents on doors and window frames to avoid getting the cleaner on the silicone seals. It could cause them to peel away.

Do lubricate moving parts on uPVC windows and doors

uPVC windows and doors have moving parts, such as hinges and locks. These must be lubricated periodically (we suggest two or three times a year) to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant and apply it to the moving parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be careful not to use excessive lubrication.

Do maintain the weatherstripping on uPVC windows and doors

The weatherstripping around your windows and doors helps to keep out drafts and moisture. Inspect it regularly and replace any damaged or worn weatherstripping as needed.

Do keep sliding door and window tracks clean

Sliding doors and windows have tracks that can collect dirt and debris over time, and impede the movement of the door or window. Clean them regularly with a soft brush or cloth to loosen any build-up, then vacuum all loose debris. Depending on the usage and wear of the doors and windows, four to five times a year is likely to be often enough to keep the tracks free of debris.

Do check uPVC windows and doors for leaks

Check your windows and doors for air or water leaks periodically. If you notice any leaks, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent damage to your home. You can ask a professional for advice

Do clean windows with lead in them thoroughly after installation

Products containing lead can stain if they are not cleaned regularly, especially in the early stages of being installed. As with any window, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth.

Do take care when operating door and window locks and handles

Using excessive force when trying to operate your door or window’s locks or handles is likely to cause damage. If you are struggling to open a door or window, check around the frame and in the lock for any obstructions, such as a build-up of residue or dirt. If you’re still having problems, it’s time to call in a professional to take a look.

Caring for uPVC windows and doors: The Don’ts

Don’t use harsh chemicals to clean uPVC windows and doors

Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents to clean your uPVC windows and doors as they can damage the surface. Stick to warm soapy water and a soft cloth.

Don’t use a pressure washer to clean windows and doors

Pressure washing can force water into the seals around your windows and doors, causing damage. Avoid pressure washing your uPVC windows and doors.

Don’t paint uPVC windows and doors

uPVC windows and doors are designed to be low maintenance and do not need to be painted. Painting them can cause damage and void any warranties.

Don’t slam windows and doors

Slamming your windows and doors can damage the frame and cause misalignment. Always close them gently and ensure that they are properly locked.

Don’t neglect uPVC windows and doors

While uPVC windows and doors are low maintenance, they still require some care and attention to keep them functioning properly. Neglecting them can lead to costly repairs further down the line.

Conclusion: It’s easy to care for your uPVC windows and doors

To conclude, it’s not an onerous task to take care of your windows and doors. With a little time and effort, and by following the simple advice above, you’ll be able to enjoy your uPVC windows and doors for many years to come.

If your windows or doors have seen better days and cleaning them is unlikely to bring them back to life, it might be time to look into replacing them. Get in touch today to discuss how we could help.

Need advice on replacing your windows or doors?

If your windows or doors have seen better days and cleaning them is unlikely to bring them back to life, it might be time to look into replacing them. Get in touch today to discuss how we could help.

Talk to an Expert

Join Our Newsletter

Sign up to our newsletters and receive useful hints and tips, plus much more, including competitions and special offers.

Paul Wallis
Paul Wallis
2023-10-28
We recently decided to replace our front door, and could not be happier with the result! Thanks so much to Kate, for her time and understanding. Cannot say enough good things about the installation, and Cameron was tidy and efficient. It's been a pleasure to work with Three Counties recently, doors and windows. Many thanks!
Danielle Horsley
Danielle Horsley
2023-10-14
Lovely looking door
Agatha W
Agatha W
2023-09-08
Three Counties have been superb, their customer service is great and their workman were polite, cleaned up after themselves and the workmanship is excellent!! I am very pleased with their work and would happily recommend them.
Tom Winter
Tom Winter
2023-08-15
Excellent service!! We had 21 windows and 3 doors installed and very happy with it all. The process from start to finish was stress free and Ron and Lee who installed the windows and doors were great. Would definitely recommend!
Phil Redhead
Phil Redhead
2023-08-12
Just had my tatty old windows replaced by Three Counties, and it’s been a highly professional job from start to finish. Communication from the administration team was prompt and courteous at all times, and installation ended up being much quicker than advertised projections. Installation was without issue and the lads who did the work were amenable to my requirements and did an excellent job. Very happy with the entire process. Three Counties were recommended to me by friends and I can certainly now recommend them to others.
Mark Boyce
Mark Boyce
2023-07-21
Bought two new windows and a new front door from Three Counties, was very impressed with the attitude of all staff, who were friendly and informative. Price was good, and installation completed without a hitch - very happy with the final product, and would definitely use again.
Paul Picknett
Paul Picknett
2023-06-13
We have just had all our windows (18) replaced, french doors (20 and side panels (2) by Three Counties. We could not be more pleased with their workmanship and the finished product. They left the property incredibly clean after each day, and this despite the messy nature of ripping out old windows and frames. We were kept informed at each stage and a minor snagging issue was resolved promptly and efficiently after installation. A first class service. We would not hesitate to recommend Three Counties.
Anna Trevelyan
Anna Trevelyan
2023-06-01
Three Counties have now installed several windows and doors on our house and they're always my go-to company. I used another before I discovered them and they let me down, but I absolutely cannot fault Three Counties. From the moment you contact them they're courteous and professional, and they keep in touch with timescales and installation times. Friendly installers too, who go above and beyond. You'd think all this great service would cost more but they beat other companies on price. Highly recommended and trusted, I'd never go anywhere else now.