Care & Maintenance...

If properly cared for timber framed doors & windows will last a life time. With regular cleaning and occasional maintenance doors
and windows will look as good as new after 30 years of being installed.

General Cleaning

All glass on any door or window needs to be cleaned on a regular basis to keep it clear. This should be done using mild soapy water and neverwith abrasive chemicals which will damage the frames. Rinse aid can also be used which will help prevent any streak marks being left when dried.During the general cleaning of the glass the timber and /or aluminium should also be cleaned by simply wiping with a cloth to remove any dirt or debris from grooves and recesses. Failure to this may inhabit ventilation and /or water may collect on certain parts of the frames which could eventually lead to rot over a period of time.
 
Timber Exteriors

Externally the timber frames should be checked for cracks regularly, in particular on products which are south or west facing as these are exposed to the most sun and UV light. If cracks do ever appear and it is left untreated water may be able to get into the frame which could lead to rot pf a period of time. To repair a crack simply reapply some paint or stain touch up over the affected area in dry conditions.

Timber Interiors

Internally timber frames need very little maintenance. from time to time it may be necessary to wipe away any grease and dust by simply wiping with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. If cracks ever appear in the timber then touch up paint or stain should be applied as soon as possible.

Aluminium

Aluminium faces on products that are either clad in aluminium or are all aluminium require little maintenance. When the glass is cleaned the frames should also be cleaned with nothing more than mild soapy water. The aluminum can be polished with certain car waxes-only ones that contain no  no abrasives. This works in the same way as it would on a car - creating a a more dirt repellent and brighter frame. If any damage is caused to the frames, small scratches can be covered using a polishe. However if a scratch is deep enough to cut into the aluminum then the frame itself will create a protective layer by oxidation and will become very difficult to remove. qaLthough this scratch may deter from the appearance of the frame it will not affect the overall lifespan of the door or window. Stubborn marks on polyester powder coated (PPC) aluminium can be removed using a paraffin based cleaner or a liquid cream cleaner. Stubborn marks on anodised aluminium can be removed
using an ink rubber.

Gaskets & Seals

Gaskets and seals are the element between opening and fixed components which creates a flush, tight seal so that neither draft nor water can seep through. They need very little maintenance other than occasional clean with a cloth and mild soapy water. If the frames are to be painted then it is best to remove the gaskets to avoid getting them damaged. When replacing them use mild soapy water to ease them back into position.

Ironmongery

The ironmongery on doors & windows should last a lifetime providing that it is all kept clear of dirt and debris and is well lubricated. The fixings should be appropriately lubricated twice a year and at any other point where the frames have been cleaned and the lubrication may have been washed away.

Keys & Lock

To ensure that locks do not stick at all it is best to oil them regularly by apply lubricating oil to the key and inserting it into the lock a few times.This should be done 2-4 times a year.

Folding Sliding Doors & Lift & Slide Doors

The main difference between these types of doors and other doors & windows is the bottom running track. It is important that these tracks are kept clear of any debris and obstacles that may damage them.failure to do this may impair the function of the doors. The tracks are designed so that dust and small dirt particles do not impede there function however it is advised that they are still cleaned by using a vacuum.

Condensation

If condensation occurs on the inside of a door or window then the internal humidity is too high. To remedy this simply leave a door or window open for 10-15 minutes to allow dry, fresh air inside. Occasionally, in the right conditions condensation can form on the outside of the glass. This is completely normal and is a sign that the doors & windows are insulating to a very high standard. If condensation occurs within the glazing unit itself, then the sealed
unit is most likely faulty and should be replaced immediately.