As the weather begins to turn, and the days become longer, you’re most likely starting to plan some upgrades and maintenance in and around your house. One of the areas that we often recommend people to start is their windows.
Your windows are vital as they provide your home with natural light, protect your home against unpredictable weather, and offer you a breath of fresh air when you need it most.
Having uPVC windows and doors can help make your home feel more insulated, improving thermal efficiency, making your home more energy efficient while adding that modern aesthetic and minimal extra cost. Fortunately, our experts in windows and doors West Lothian and surrounding areas have years of experience answering questions about the maintenance and upkeep of uPVC windows and doors.
Whether you’re planning to do some upgrades over the summer months, deciding to replace some of the windows and doors around your house, or even just looking to spruce up your living quarters, we’re answering six important questions about uPVC windows you should know before taking on a new project.
Can you paint uPVC windows
This is probably one of the most important questions our customers want to know, and the short answer is – yes. You can paint your uPVC windows, including exterior trimmings, interior doors, composite front doors, even a wooden door.
Before painting uPVC windows, make sure that you do thorough research about how to do it, including asking for advice about the specific paint or spray paint you might need. Our experts can advise on which suppliers are the most reliable, and can assist with specific painting instructions.
It’s worth mentioning that some uPVC windows and doors may be installed with a plastic resin coating on top of the surface. This extra layer is usually added during the manufacturing process to help protect the frame and make the uPVC appear shiny.
This coating can last up to 12 months, so we recommend that you wait at least several months before painting as these surfaces are not to be painted on. However, you may be fortunate enough to spray paint your uPVC windows and doors, however, we suggest making use of a professional for this type of project.
How to clean uPVC window frames
Knowing some of the basic cleaning tips and tricks can help your uPVC windows and door frames last longer. By taking care of your frames, cleaning inside the crevices, and making sure dust build-up is removed over time, you can be assured that your windows will last you years to come.
Cleaning uPVC windows:
For the windows, try and use a non-toxic or non-chemical-based cleaning solution. Start by cleaning up any visible mould with a homemade alternative cleaning solution.
For the mould cleaner, mix one part bleach and two parts water, either in a spray bottle or bucket of water. Apply the mixture to the areas with mould and leave for 10 – 15 minutes before washing down.
Next, mix 2 x cups of water with a third cup of white vinegar and a tablespoon of washing liquid. You can use this solution to clean both the frames and the glass window panes. For the glass panes, make sure that you wipe down any marks once the water has dried.
You can use a soft cloth on the frames and windows, or newspaper to wipe down any marks that remained on the glass panes. Be sure to clean around any security features, such as multi point locks, and leave enough time for matierals to dry.
Cleaning uPVC doors:
Every several weeks you should be cleaning your front door, bifold doors and sliding doors. Start by opening the door and securing it in place with a door weight or stopper. Next, vacuum around the door, including on top and underneath, and around the door frame.
Next, mix a cup of white vinegar with at least four cups of warm water. You can mix this in a spray bottle or a water bucket. Apply the vinegar and water mixture onto the door, door frame, and handle.
After 10 to 15 minutes you can wipe down the door and frame with a soft cloth or a paper towel. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or cleaning products in small spaces without proper ventilation.
Materials and products to avoid:
For both uPVC windows and doors, avoid using:
- Iron wool
- Scouring pads
- White spirits chemicals
- WD-40
How to adjust uPVC windows
For whatever reason you might need to adjust your uPVC windows, it’s recommended that you contact a professional to assist you with the process. Our experts are more than willing to assist or walk you through the process.
By using professional services, you can be assured that your window adjustments are done properly and that any mistakes can be avoided. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your uPVC windows which will help keep your family protected for years to come.
Make sure to reach out to our team of skilled professionals for all your adjustment or alteration needs. We’ll be more than willing to assist you with any queries and provide you with excellent service.
How long do uPVC windows last
A very important question to ask, as you want to ensure that your uPVC windows can last you at least several years before needing to be replaced. Generally, uPVC windows should last roughly 20 years and may vary between 10 to 35 years.
Factors that may influence the lifespan of your windows include the quality of materials, the level of installation, and general maintenance and upkeep of modern uPVC windows. The 20-year mark is a minimum average, and many customers have seen their windows lasting a lot longer as they ensure the proper care and maintenance is provided.
We believe our selection of uPVC windows and doors is among the best on the market. Our uPVC windows have been made to last and can provide you with years of service and protection.
How much are uPVC windows
Cost plays an important role in deciding which modern uPVC windows or uPVC sash windows you would like to have installed. The total cost of a project will largely depend on several things, including:
Style: Each window style or range of styles can have different prices, usually because of the different materials that have been used.
Materials: Higher-end materials will likely mean that you will be paying slightly more, however, you will have the best quality uPVC windows and doors.
Glazing: Better protection comes at a price, double-glazed windows are on average slightly more affordable compared to triple-glazed uPVC sash windows.
Size: Size does matter, and when it comes to windows it’s important to keep in mind that the bigger a window, the bigger the price is likely to be.
Service: Having a team of professionals complete the job will save you a lot of time and money in the long run as you will spend less time, effort and money on upkeep and maintenance.
Sure, you can always opt for the more affordable and economical option, although this might present you with some challenges in the near future, as you will need to spend additional resources and time on having to replace, fix and maintain lower-quality uPVC windows and doors.
How to remove yellow stains from uPVC windows
Yellowing of uPVC windows and door frames can become an occurrence, depending on the type of materials used or whether the product has been painted or treated. Reasons for why your uPVC windows and doors might have yellow spots are:
- Continuous exposure to UV light
- Insufficient light exposure
- Changes in temperature
- An increase in humidity
- Using detergents with abrasive additives
- Poor quality materials
- Contamination to plaster or mountain foam
These are among the handful of things that can cause your uPVC windows to turn yellow, however, there are some ways to remove any stains. You can use a non-toxic solution or a cleaning solution that does not contain any abrasive additives.
Try and use products that contain baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, or washing powder. These solutions are most likely to help remove yellow stains and will give your windows the shine they deserve.
Got any more questions? Feel free to reach out to FWD Glazing for all your uPVC windows and door needs. Our team of expert professionals will be available to assist you with any questions you might have. For further information about the selection of uPVC windows, bifold doors, french doors, composite front doors and sliding doors, have a look at our latest catalogue or download a copy for yourself.