How to care for plastic windows: DIY PVC window care

A call from the company with a proposal to check the condition of the plastic windows and take the necessary steps to care for them interested our family, because the windows in the apartment were installed about 8-10 years ago. And besides the usual annual washing of the windows from accumulated dirt and dust, nothing else was done to them during this time.

Probably, the naive belief that existed for a long time that plastic windows do not need special care came into play. Of course, modern windows are unpretentious, practical, reliable, have a lot of advantages and seem eternal. But still, they need to be monitored and properly cared for.

By ignoring completely simple rules of care, which most of us can follow, after a few years we end up with a lot of defects and breakdowns. Windows lose their presentable appearance, they begin to let in cold air and street noise, fittings become loose and fail, drainage holes become clogged with dirt, and rubber seals dry out.

Some breakdowns can be easily fixed. But sometimes the problems that arise (worn and abraded metal parts in the absence of lubrication, heavy movement of the handle, etc.) require serious financial costs and additional effort. Repairs are also complicated by the fact that it can be difficult or even impossible to find spare parts to replace worn parts. You have to completely change the mechanism and hinges, drill new holes, or even completely replace the window.

Like any technically complex structure, which PVC windows undoubtedly are, they require some maintenance. Remember what you focused on when choosing windows - a high-quality profile, fittings and double-glazed windows: all these elements equally require care. If you didn't know how to care for your windows or forgot about the tips that the craftsmen gave you after installing your windows, this article may be useful to you.

The design of a plastic window is simple. It consists of a frame, a double-glazed window (a sealed structure with air chambers between the glasses), movable sashes with rubber seals that prevent blowing and leaks, and fittings - an important component (consists of a complex set of mechanisms responsible for fixing the window sashes in one position or another , opening and locking, from hinges and handles).

Do-it-yourself plastic window care

Knowing how to care for plastic windows, you can prevent many problems with the quality and period of their operation. Therefore, it is necessary to take care of the constant cleaning of each element of the integral structure that requires maintenance.

Frame

Compared to its wooden predecessor, the plastic frame is much easier to clean. The main thing is to carry out all important procedures on time and systematically wipe the surface. In addition to dust and dirt, which are easy to get rid of, yellowing may appear over time, which will cause a lot of trouble for the owners.

Basic recommendations for caring for the frame:

For cleaning, use only a sponge with a mild abrasive and regular dish soap. This combination will allow you to quickly and efficiently deal with stains.
It is forbidden to take powders, which is often advertised by sellers, since the composition can scratch the surface. Do not use solvents, acidic or alkaline compounds, or acetone.
The surface should be treated with a special cleansing milk that can remove both fresh and old stains, as well as yellowness. The composition must be applied to the frame and rubbed in a circle until it becomes shiny. There is no need to rinse off, the milk creates a thin protective film.
Do not apply force or apply pressure while cleaning the frame. The material is fragile and can deteriorate or burst under strong pressure.
Convex dirt, cement residues, and polyurethane foam must not be removed using a sharp object or spatula. It is better to get a professional reagent to remove such contaminants.

Each general cleaning should be accompanied by wiping the frame; even in a short period of time, a lot of dust and dirt accumulate on it.

Double-glazed window

Caring for the glass unit of a modern window is no different from what was needed in the old Soviet design. The advantage of the current mechanism is that it should not be washed from the inside, since it is tightly closed and does not accumulate dust and dirt during operation.

It is worth considering that a double-glazed window needs careful handling, which is why it should be protected from impacts and scratches in order to maintain strength and functionality for decades.

How to wash glass correctly:

Remove dust and dirt from the outside of the opening using plenty of water. Wipe the glass with newspapers.
Pieces of foam and cement that appear after repairs should not be scraped off with sharp instruments. Just moisten them with water, they will soften and come off on their own. You can arm yourself with a rubber scraper.
It is forbidden to take dirty liquid for washing; it is important to change it more often during the procedure so that dirt particles do not scratch the material.
Grease stains can be easily removed with a solution of shampoo and dish soap. After treatment, it is necessary to rinse the coating with water and wipe it with a cloth equipped with soft bristles.
The material can be cleaned without water by using professional glass mixtures or wipes and monitor composition. At the same time, strictly adhere to the rules and precautions written on the packaging.

There are also time-tested folk methods for caring for glass. A weak solution of vinegar and ammonia will quickly clean glass. These affordable, gentle means available to every housewife are distinguished by their effectiveness and maximum safety.

Sealant

There is a seal around the perimeter of the sash and the light opening, which requires regular maintenance. The function of this part of the structure is to ensure that the sash is tightly connected to the frame and does not allow frosty air, moisture, or noise to pass through.

In order not to compromise the strength and integrity of the entire mechanism:

wipe the seal with a soap-based solution;
Avoid contact with substances that contain alcohol on the surface of the material;
lubricate the rubber part with special mixtures 2 times a year in spring and autumn.

The following products are suitable for lubrication:

Fenosol is a unique product that increases the elasticity and durability of rubber, allowing it to serve for a long time and not burst at low temperatures.
WD-40 is a multifunctional lubricant for cars and doors, used in many areas. It creates a moisture-insulating film on the surface, which gives elasticity and strength to the rubber.
BE Edel Weiss is a preparation made from excellent quality raw materials, is well absorbed by the sealant material, imparts durability and flexibility to the part.

Without proper care, rubber material quickly wears out, becomes damaged, ceases to fulfill its main purpose and needs to be replaced.

Drainage holes

Small holes located in the frame profile are needed to drain condensate and water that enters the structure after exposure to adverse weather conditions. They can be seen at the bottom of the case in those places where the windows open under the sealing rubber at the joint. There is a water-repellent hole on the inside and outside.

Over time, a lot of dirt accumulates in them, which flows down the glass along with moisture. Therefore, clean the drainage holes 1-2 times a year. Blockages cause moisture retention, which has a detrimental effect on the condition of the plastic in the future.

To carry out cleaning, you do not need rags or detergents; one vacuum cleaner is enough. It is necessary to apply the household appliance to the water-repellent holes from the outside and inside, it will instantly pull out all the dust. For more extensive cleaning, you can use wire or plastic fluff, inserting them under the plug and removing all dirt.

Accessories

Metal-plastic and PVC structures are equipped with high-quality fittings, which require almost no attention. To increase the period of its operation and make work easier, it is important to follow the following rules:

Avoid getting water on the fittings when washing the windows so that the mechanism does not oxidize or become rusty.
Cleaning using petroleum jelly, resins, and acid solutions is strictly prohibited.
Metal brushes and rags with hard bristles are not suitable for disposal of dirt and dust, as they can damage the anti-corrosion coating and lead to rust.
3 years after installing the window, the driving mechanism needs additional lubrication. Special oil is suitable, as well as BE products Edel Weiss and WD-40. Apply the product to the slots and mechanisms that are visible when the window is opened.

Damage to the fittings resulting from contamination or staining is not covered under warranty. Cleaning or replacement of structural elements will be at the expense of the owner.

Window handles

Window handles are short-lived and often require repair and replacement. To increase the service life, the structures must be used correctly. They are made of plastic, so they are more likely to wear out and may not withstand sudden, strong movements when turning in the desired direction. You should not hang various objects on them, lean your elbows, or allow your child to tug on them, otherwise the structure will become loose and stop working normally. In this case, you will have to contact a specialist or tighten the screw yourself, if you have certain knowledge and experience.

Instructions for troubleshooting:

Raise the decorative strip under the window handle.
Scroll it so that it is horizontal.
Tighten the screws located underneath in rapid mode.
Put the bar in place.

If the handle is difficult to turn or jams, the problem may not be with the screws at all. The fittings periodically become clogged, and dirt particles interfere with the normal operation of the handle. To solve the problem, you must disassemble it, eliminate the accumulated dust and install it in place.

mosquito net

A mosquito net will help prevent insects from entering the room, as well as protect against poplar fluff and dust getting inside. If you take proper care of it, it will last for many years. To do this, consider a few important tips:

The net is needed in the summer. In winter, remove it, wash it, and put it away for safekeeping in a room with a warm temperature. This way it will be guaranteed to be protected from severe frosts and bird invasions.
Wash the nets at least 2 times a year with soap and a dish sponge or a vacuum cleaner and a damp cloth.
It is better to put aggressive products, acidic, alkaline products and hard brushes aside. They can ruin the material.
Dry only naturally; do not leave the wet mesh near radiators and other heating devices, otherwise the fibers will melt and collapse.

The material from which the mosquito net is made is quite durable. It can withstand severe temperature changes, high humidity, and prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Windowsill

Every owner of a translucent structure wants to have a beautiful snow-white window sill that is not immune to the appearance of stubborn stains, yellowness, rust, and dirt. To ensure that it does not lose its attractiveness from the moment of installation, it is important to adhere to the basic rules for its maintenance:

Wipe off dust from the window sill during each general cleaning. It is better to remove contaminants in the form of stains immediately, before they have time to be absorbed.
Before cleaning, test the quality of the cleaning product. Initially, try the cleaning mixture on an inconspicuous area, so as not to damage a large area of the material with an incorrectly selected substance.
Bleaching the window sill if necessary. You need to prepare a composition of ammonia (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water) and apply it for 5-7 minutes and rinse.
Remove yellow spots. If yellowness appears on the windowsill, a solution of hydrogen peroxide and bleach will come in handy. This effective method will get rid of stains without effort and nerves.
An old, stained window sill can only be restored to its original appearance by painting with acrylic or alkyd enamel of the desired shade.

Timely cleaning will preserve the shine, brightness and freshness of the window sill for a long time.

Cleaning the Drain Holes

Drainage holes are designed to drain moisture to the street. They are located at the bottom of the frame under the sash. If the holes are clogged with dirt and dust, they will not be able to perform their function. In winter, water will freeze directly on the frame, forming ice, and as a result, the tightness of the sash will be compromised.

Drainage holes.

A brush or an old toothbrush can be used for cleaning; you can try rinsing the holes with plenty of water. If the blockage persists, you will need a wire or thin stick. They can clean hard and heavy deposits of dirt. Then rinse the drainage with water.

Caring for plastic windows in winter and summer

Depending on the time of year, the seal behaves differently: under the influence of high temperatures it expands, and in the cold it contracts. To extend the service life of the material, it is necessary to systematically adjust the sash pressure. The procedure minimizes the load on the fittings and increases the service life of the entire structure.

You can set up a PVC window based on the season with your own hands. To do this, it is better to take a flat screwdriver or a six-sided wrench. Instructions for preparing the structure:

Find areas that need reinforcement of the narthex and core.
In accordance with the marker applied to the locking element, turn the pin in the required direction.
Winter is a period when a tight fit to the frame is required. To do this, turn the marker inward. Setting it up for summer involves twisting it towards the outside.

This important procedure will take a maximum of 15 minutes, this way you can avoid many breakdowns in the future. You can learn more about switching your device to summer mode by watching the video:

What and how to wash double-glazed windows

Double-glazed windows of a plastic window with the appearance of dirt and, especially, scratches on them, significantly reduce light transmittance. Because of this, more energy is used to illuminate the room than it could be. Therefore, it is extremely important to keep the glass clean by regularly washing off dirt. Warm water with a small amount of liquid glass and dishwashing detergent is quite suitable for cleaning glass.

Tinted glass and glass with a special coating are washed in exactly the same way, since the decorative surface is hidden inside a sealed bag. There is no need to fear for her.

The exception is special decorative coatings with a reflective effect (not to be confused with heat-reflecting glass coatings or energy-saving double-glazed windows). The choice of cleaning agents for such glass should be approached with extreme caution. We recommend that you first check how the product affects the coating in a small area, and only after that, use the product to clean the entire window.

How not to wash double-glazed windows

Do not use powder or abrasive cleaning agents. Under no circumstances should glass stains be removed with sharp objects.

To spend less time cleaning window glass, pay attention to new types of self-cleaning double-glazed windows. Managers of Window Company Business-M will advise you in more detail about this product.

Windows fogging in winter: how to deal with the problem

The resulting large drops on the surface of the glass can cause moisture in the entire structure, causing mold to appear on the sides, which will gradually spread to the walls of the house. The main thing is not to ignore such problems and immediately begin to take appropriate measures.

You can influence this process by changing the temperature and humidity level in the room. Basic recommendations for preventing fogging of Euro windows:

Install gravity ventilation, which ensures the removal of vapors and carbon dioxide.
Maintain room humidity at 50 percent.
Ventilate the room: in summer, leave the windows open for the whole day, in winter only for 10 minutes 3-4 times a day.
Use supply valves to warm the structure or use profile ventilation inside.
Use a container to absorb moisture. It should be purchased at any hardware store.
Treat glass with products in the form of aerosols and liquids. Such mixtures are produced for cars; they can be used to wipe PVC windows to get rid of fogging.

Timely decision-making when plastic windows fog up will extend their service life and protect against the development of fungus on the walls of the house.

Cleaning drainage channels

Special channels are milled into the profile to remove accumulated moisture. You can see them outside the frame - on the outside, street side of the window and inside the frame.

Along with moisture, particles of dust and dirt get into the holes. If dirt is not removed from the drainage holes of the plastic profile in time, this can lead to damage to the window and its failure.

We strongly recommend that you inspect your windows for dirt in the drainage channel and remove any blockages that appear.

Additional care products for plastic windows

All window products must have the following characteristics:

Purchase compositions for cleaning glass units in liquid form without solvents, and purchase a sponge exclusively from melamine to remove dirt using an abrasive method.
Treat the seals with waterproof glycerin-based silicone lubricants to protect them from drying out.
To lubricate the fittings, use machine oil to minimize friction, as well as agents that prevent the development of corrosion.

You can purchase an already formed kit from the developers, arranged based on the characteristics and features of the models. Only under this condition will the structure last a long time and delight you with warmth and comfort.

Why do you need to lubricate seals?

The rubber bands on the windows not only serve to keep the glass unit tighter, but also protect the room from drafts and the structure itself from moisture, dust, and other debris. In the production of windows, special rubber is used, which is of high quality and durability, but any material requires proper care.

Seals can lose quality due to external influences. For example, they are exposed to ultraviolet radiation, high and low temperatures with frequent changes. Dryness in hot weather is harmful to rubber, and moisture in cold weather has a negative effect. In order to protect the material, lubricant is used. A destructive effect also has a physical effect on the material. This includes pressing the frame against the sash. The rubber rests only if the window is fully open, which does not happen very often. Most often, the seal is in a tightly compressed state.

Even if the factory did not forget to treat the seals, it is necessary to know how to lubricate the rubber seals on plastic windows , since the lubricant must be renewed periodically .

Important advice from professionals on caring for plastic windows

In order for the window to be beautiful for a long period and not require replacement or repair, it must be cleaned of dirt in a timely manner. In this case, take into account the advice of professionals:

Remove the protective film after installation. It is better to remove polyethylene immediately from new windows, since it is only necessary during transportation and installation. In the future, the coloring pigments of the film may change the shade of the plastic, and the connecting agent will become so ingrained that no solvent can solve the problem.
Avoid harsh household chemicals. For cleaning, a soap solution and a soft fiber cloth are sufficient. The content of alcohol, acid, alkali, abrasive, chlorine, and acetone in the products is unacceptable.
Use professional care products offered by the developers. When purchasing windows, it is more convenient to immediately purchase additional cleaning mixtures designed for this model, taking into account all its features.
Sand minor damage. Even careful care of PVC windows does not exclude the occurrence of scuffs and cracks. Such defects must be eliminated at home in a timely manner by selecting the appropriate compounds and tools. For colored plastic, purchase pencils containing varnish and retouch. A feeling of uncertainty about the quality of the procedure with your own hands is a sign that it is better to entrust the restoration of the surface to a master.
It is important not to forget about systematic ventilation. Under the influence of excess humidity, the structure will begin to deteriorate and become loose. It is necessary to ventilate the room, improve the ventilation system, and not fill the window sill with flowers or an aquarium, which will humidify the air.

Following practical care tips will allow you to enjoy comfort and the absence of street noise and frosty air for many years.

Traditional methods used for sealants

There are other substances that can be used to lubricate rubber seals in plastic windows , for example, glycerin. It is also used quite often by professional craftsmen. However, this substance is not able to sufficiently protect against moisture and over time it is washed off from the seal either when washing windows or by rain.

Pure glycerin

Advice: you can use glycerin in its pure form, but you can’t use creams containing it or other substances, since hand cream, in addition to glycerin, contains other substances that will be harmful to rubber.

Conclusion: when deciding how to lubricate the seals of plastic windows, you will proceed from the price, but it is worth remembering that the substances offered by window manufacturers are superior in quality to cheap analogues. You should not save on small things, since replacing rubber bands in a PVC window is impossible, and you will have to spend a lot of money and time to replace the seals.