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Window Information

What you need to maintain

Unless correctly maintained, there is a resonable chance thatanything in a product thatcango wrong will go wrong. It is therefore necessary to check all aspects of a window. The most important elements to maintain are the coating system and the hardware. However, it is advisable to check the whole window (interior and exterior) including the glazing unitand weatherseals, for any signs of deterioration. If there are any causes for concern, follw these guidelines. If the problem persists, contact the window manufacturer.

The type and level of maintenance required will depend on the windows location and exposure to the weather. A window in a south facing position in a coastal area will deterirate far quicker than one that is facing north and sheltered from the wind and rain.

It is important to remember that regualr, minimal maintenance will make re-decorating the window a far easier job.

1.	Mould and Algae
	All windows can suffer from mould and algae caused by airborne spores, which settle on the surface ( which is why exterior plastic products go grey over time).

	To remove mould and algae, wash with a solution of one part bleach to two parts water, and leave for 20 minutes to work. Then rinse, if the blemish is stubborn, scrub with a stiff nylon bristle (not metallic) brush.

2.	Cleaning and Washing
	Wash with hot water and liquid detergent every 6 months. Rinse with clean water. During this process it is advisable to inspect all components of the window for defects and take action if necessary.

3.	Exuding Natural Resin
	Wait until dried to a white crystaline resin before you attempt to remove it. If the resin is particualrly stubborn, you may need to carefully use a scraper and remove surface deposits. Do not use a metal scraper as this will damage both the coating and the underlying timber substrate. Use a hot air stripper to soften the exuded natural resin and to draw as much as possible from the underlying timber, Do not overheat as this may damage the coating system. Remove with a lint-free cloth dampened by methylated spirits to clean any remaining resin residue from the timber surface. Apply a suitable base stain or primer to bare timber areas. Then bring forward these areas with one coat of finish, before applying afurther coat of finish overall.

4.	Damage
	If any part of the windows coating system is damaged to the point of showing bare-timber, contact the manufacturer to find out which is the appropriate coating material to use and their practical instructions on how to maintain it.

Hardware

It is necessary to maintain all hardware regularly in order to ensure it works and lasts.

1.	General
	Wipe away all dirt and debris, especially on moving parts. Check all screws are tight.

2.	Handles
	Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Do not lubricate.

3.	Window Door Locking Systems
	Apply petroleum jelly to all locking bolts, guide slots (on frame) and striker plates.

4.	Hinges
	Add the minimum amount necessaty of light machines oil to pivots. Wipe away excess. Follow the maufacturers instructions for pivot windows.

5.	Ventilator and Canopy
	Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Clean away blockage. Do not lubricate.

Glazing Units

Check for defects. Pay particualr attention to looking for cracked glass, misting of the unit and shrinking of the glazing material. For cracking and misting, contact the window manufacturer (or glazier if the window was not supplied factory glazed. If the glazing material has shrunk and the glazing system has not failed, ensuring the window is completely dry, it may be possibleto cap the original glazing material with silicon or polysulphide sealant. It may be more difficult to overcoat silicone sealants, especially if using water-based paint or stains. Although much slower cure, polysulpghide sealants can be overcoated much more succesfully. If the glazing system has failed, then the glazing unit should be completely replaced.

Weatherseals

Check that the weatherseals have not moved or been pulled out. If they have simply push back into place. If torn, replace with new weatherseals of similar size and type. Paint or stainon weatherseal will cause it to become rigid, reducing its effectivness. If the weatherseals have been over-coated, scrape off the coating with a plastic scraper. Ensure that they return to their original shape and compress when the window is closed. If they do not return to their original shape, replace with new weatherseals of similar size and type. Any stubborn water-borne wood stains or paints may be removed by wiping down with a cloth dampened by methylated spirits.

How often you need to do it

Repairs should be carried out as and when necessary in order to make the job easier when it comes to the planned maintenance and re-decoration. Bycarrying out these checks before the problem gets worse, and re-decorating in accordance with the manufactures instructions, a quality timber window will last for a lifetime.

Hardware

Whenever necessary and at least once a year

Other Components

Whenever necessary and at least every five years.