Taking proper care of your uPVC windows and doors is an easy enough task, it’s just about knowing how to go about it exactly. Whether you have uPVC windows or uPVC doors (or both), external upvc doors or front upvc doors – they do need taking care of once in a while, despite companies claiming that they’re maintenance-free. Maintenance-free just means they will never need coated or painted in order to stay in fine shape. So, why do uPVC windows and doors need cleaning? Well, like most surfaces, they will pick up dirt and dust in the air, especially during hotter seasons. uPVC doors that are opened regularly will likely get dirty from being touched so constantly and letting dirt and dust in the air come through. This is particularly the case for internal doors if you’re at home a lot.
Frame Cleaning.

Keeping your windows and doors clean means more than just the glass. Here are some helpful tips for cleaning your window and door frames effectively without damaging them.

    Vacum dirt from sill and track areas before washing. Clean window and door frames with a mixture of mild dishwashing soap and water. Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous area first.
    Abrasive or caustic cleaners or solvents are never recommended because they might cause permanent damage to the frame finish.
    Mild, nonabrasive soaps are usually safest for most dirt and stain removal.
    Always rinse completely with clear water and wipe dry.
    Check to make certain that drainage or “weep” holes are always clear of dirt or obstructions—both inside and outside the window or door in the bottom of the frame.
    Note: If the window is “stacked,” there may be weep holes between units.

Glass care today is more important than ever. Insulating, low-e or heat reflective glass requires proper maintenance to ensure their complete effectiveness.

Never use any petroleum-based cleaners, or caustic chemicals on your glass.
    Never use a razor blade, putty knife or abrasive pad to clean the glass.

Do not use a high-pressure spray nozzle when rinsing your windows after washing. All of these practices may damage the glass surface, the insulating glass seal, or component parts.

Clean glass with a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Rinse completely with clear water, then wipe dry with a soft cloth to avoid water spots.
    Avoid washing glass in direct sunlight.
    Abrasive or caustic cleaners are never recommended because they might cause permanent damage to the finish or the glass.

Clean screens by first removing, then washing on a flat, clean surface with mild soap and water and a soft brush. Rinse, wipe dry and re-install

Vinyl frames or vinyl cladding may be affected by solar radiation or chemicals that can cause color change.

Frame Color Change
Chemicals can cause PVC discoloration. All fuels, solvents, bleaches or corrosive chemicals must be avoided.
    In dry climates with high levels of solar energy a color change can be expected with PVC, like most any finish.
    color change has no effect on the strength or structural integrity of the PVC.
    Overtime and with exposure to normal humidity, this yellowing most often returns to a white color.

To ensure that your windows and doors open, close, lock and unlock easily for years to come, follow these helpful maintenance tips to keep your windows and door operating smoothly.

    Moving parts in hardware components and tracks and rollers should be lubricated periodically in accordance with the manufacturers maintenance instructions. In salt-air environments this can mean at least monthly.
    Check weather stripping around operable window and door panels and be sure it seals evenly.
    On sliding doors and windows, make certain track area is kept clean. Vacum as needed to clear dirt or any debris.
    Adjust sliding door rollers for proper height clearances. Most door rollers can be adjusted with a screwdriver through access holes in either the end or side of the sliding panel at the bottom.
    Rolling screen doors maybe adjusted to run smoothly. Use a screwdriver—often in all four corners—to make adjustment.
    After making door roller adjustments, it may be necessary to make adjustments in the lock strike placement. Most strikes may be adjusted by loosening screw fasteners, moving strike plate and tightening. Check for proper lock operation.

Window condensation can be a natural occurrence. It can be a warning that excessive moisture is present and may cause structural deterioration and the possibility of mold growth.

    Condensation on the inside of a window is a result of a higher air moisture content contacting lower temperatures on the glass. The higher the interior humidity and the lower the outside window temperature, the more condensation can occur.
    Excessive interior humidity can lead to structural damage and health concerns if high moisture levels are sustained inside wall cavities.  Mold and mildew can result.
    Check all sash for smooth adequate operation. Add integrated window ventilators and air exchange devices if necessary.
    Regularly use exhaust fans especially when showering.
    Install and use a dehumidifier. Use ceiling fans to circulate air.
    Open windows and doors whenever practical or possible to allow interior moisture to escape

Windows and doors often have a simple drainage system or "weep" system designed right into the product. These water drainage pathways must be kept clear and clean for the window or door to operate correctly.

    It is normal for water to accumulate in the sill or track area with wind driven rain. The water is intended to drain to the outside as water builds up or outside pressure subsides.
    Keep sill or track areas clean of dirt or debris
    .
    Make sure that outside and inside “weep” holes and sill area are kept clear of any dirt, cement , sand, or building materials.
    Use a small, soft bottle brush to clear openings.
    Windows can be vulnerable to water leakage at the corners if not properly maintained. If a crack appears, it should be sealed with a top grade of sealant in accordance with  manufacturer’s instructions