Windows are a hugely important part of any home, allowing natural light to flood in and providing a connection to the outside world. Keeping them clean not only makes your home look nicer but also ensures they’ll keep on working effectively for longer. So, if your home has uPVC windows, let Bingley Windows and Glass guide you through the best ways to keep them in tip-top condition:
Why Does Deep Cleaning Matter?
Before we talk about how to clean your windows, it’s essential to understand why deep cleaning your uPVC windows is so important. Over time, dirt, dust, and grime accumulate on the surface, making your windows look dull and reducing their efficiency. It can even lead to more severe issues in the long run such as foggy or hazy glass, and even malfunctioning hinges or tracks. And we don’t want that – so let’s get started!
Cleaning the Glass Inside and Out
The glass is obviously the bit you notice first, so let’s start with how to give your internal and external glazing a good old cleaning.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- Glass cleaner: You can use a shop bought glass cleaner or even make your own by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Microfiber cloths: These are gentle on glass surfaces and help prevent streaks.
- Sponge or squeegee: For scrubbing and drying.
- Bucket: To hold your cleaning solution.
Steps:
- Remove any dust and loose debris: Before applying any cleaner, use a dry cloth or a soft brush to remove dust, cobwebs, and loose dirt from the glass surface and window frame. This prevents scratching during the cleaning process.
- Prepare your cleaning solution: If using a commercial glass cleaner, follow the instructions on the bottle. If making your own, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bucket – no other instructions necessary!
- Apply the cleaner: Dip your sponge or cloth into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the glass in a circular motion, starting from the top and working your way down. Be thorough but avoid using excessive pressure to prevent scratching.
- Wipe away the cleaner: Use a squeegee or a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe away the cleaning solution and any remaining dirt. Start from the top and pull the squeegee or cloth downwards in a straight line to avoid streaks.
- Repeat if necessary: If your windows are exceptionally dirty or have streaks, repeat the cleaning process.
- Clean the window frame: Don’t forget to wipe down the uPVC window frame with a separate cloth soaked in the cleaning solution.
- Polish for extra shine: For a sparkling finish, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to polish the glass.
- Check for any missed spots: Stand back and inspect the glass for any missed spots or streaks and touch up as needed.
Cleaning the Hinges and Tracks on Sliding Doors
While cleaning the glass will make the most difference to how your windows look, taking care of the hinges and tracks is equally important to ensure they work smoothly.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- Screwdriver: To remove the hinge covers.
- Old toothbrush: For scrubbing hard-to-reach places.
- Dry cloth or paper towels: For wiping away dirt and excess lubricant.
- Lubricant: Silicone-based lubricants are ideal for uPVC windows.
Steps:
- Remove the hinge covers: Use a screwdriver to gently pry off the hinge covers on your uPVC windows. Be careful not to damage them, as you’ll need to put them back on again later.
- Wipe away loose dirt: Use a dry cloth or paper towels to remove loose dirt and dust from the hinges and tracks. Pay attention to the corners and crevices where dirt tends to build up.
- Scrub with an old toothbrush: Dip an old toothbrush in soapy water (use a mild detergent) and scrub the hinges and tracks. This will help remove stubborn dirt and grime.
- Rinse and dry: Use a damp cloth to rinse away the soap and then dry the hinges and tracks with a clean, dry cloth.
- Lubricate the hinges: Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the hinges to ensure smooth movement. Move the window back and forth a few times to spread the lubricant around evenly.
- Re-attach the hinge covers: Carefully snap the hinge covers back into place.
- Test it: Open and close the window to ensure that it moves smoothly.
Regularly cleaning the hinges and tracks not only keeps them in good condition but also prevents them from sticking or becoming difficult to open and close.
Maintaining Your uPVC Windows
It’s essential to give your uPVC windows a really deep clean every now and then, but regular maintenance will help keep them in excellent condition between cleans – and it only takes a few minutes every few months:
Regularly remove dust and debris: Wipe down the window frames and sills regularly to prevent the build-up of dust and dirt.
Inspect for damage: Have a quick check for any new damage to the uPVC frames or glass – and if you spot something, get it sorted straight away before it becomes a bigger problem.
Re-apply lubricant: Factors like how often you use your windows and doors and even the weather can make the lubricant dry up and stop working. You should ideally reapply lubricant to hinges and tracks every 6-12 months to help keep things moving smoothly.
Conclusion
And there you have it. Everything you need to know to keep your uPVC windows looking great and working well – and all it takes is a few simple tools and a little bit of effort! If you’d like any more advice about how to care for your uPVC windows or you think it might be time for an upgrade, contact Bingley Windows and Glass. We cover all areas including Keighley, Silsden, Bingley, Ilkley and Skipton and we’ll be glad to help you find the perfect energy efficient, low maintenance uPVC windows for your home.Just click here to get in touch.