Care and maintenance of doors and windows
Practical Guide
Modern windows and doors are a long-term investment. However, to maintain full functionality, aesthetic appearance, and ensure heating savings over the years, they require a bit of attention. Regular care and simple seasonal maintenance are key to their longevity.
The good news is that it’s neither difficult nor time-consuming. Just remember a few simple steps to keep your windows and doors operating smoothly and quietly, protecting your home from cold and noise just as effectively as on the day of installation.
Key Elements of Window Maintenance
Proper care of joinery can be divided into two stages: regular cleaning (washing) and annual technical maintenance.
1. Regular Care (Cleaning)
It’s not just about aesthetics. Clean frames and seals are the first step in spotting potential issues.
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Glass cleaning: Use standard glass cleaners and a soft cloth (e.g., microfiber) to avoid scratches.
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Frame cleaning: This is a key element. The cleaning method depends on the material of your windows:
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PVC and aluminum windows: These are the easiest to maintain. Water with a mild detergent (e.g., dish soap) is enough. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, and hard brushes that may dull or scratch the surface.
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Wooden windows: Require more care. Use only dedicated products for lacquered wood. From time to time, check the condition of the varnish coating—small scratches or cracks should be secured as soon as possible to prevent moisture from penetrating the wood.
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Clearing drainage channels: At the bottom of the window frame (on the outside), there are small openings (so-called drainage channels). Their function is to drain rainwater. Make sure they are clean and unobstructed—just remove dust or leaves.
Technical Maintenance (Once a Year)
This is the most important stage, ensuring tightness and smooth operation. It is best carried out in autumn (preparing windows for winter) or in spring.
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Seal maintenance: Seals are the guardians of warmth in your home. To prevent them from hardening, cracking, and losing flexibility, they should be regularly maintained. After cleaning the frames, wipe the seals dry and apply a special seal care product (e.g., silicone grease or technical petroleum jelly).
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Hardware lubrication: If your window or door is hard to close or you hear friction, it’s a sign that the hardware needs lubrication. All moving parts (hinges, locking points) should be oiled at least once a year. Use a special machine oil or white grease spray. This ensures smooth handle operation and reduces wear on the mechanisms.
How to Care for Exterior Doors?
Entrance doors are exposed to much heavier use and harsher conditions. The care principles are similar to those for windows, but it’s worth paying attention to two additional elements:
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Lock cylinder and lock maintenance: Never lubricate the lock cylinder (keyhole) with regular oil! It attracts dust and dirt, which can cause the lock to jam. Use only specialized dry lubricants (e.g., graphite) intended for locks.
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Threshold inspection: Regularly clean the threshold of sand and dirt, which can scratch the surface and damage the bottom seal.
When to Call a Professional?
Most maintenance tasks can be done on your own. However, there are situations where it’s better to call a professional service:
Regular care of windows and doors is a simple task that translates into real savings and long-term comfort. If you have any doubts about maintenance or your joinery requires professional adjustment, our experts will be happy to help.