Proper use and care of plastic windows: useful tips

Plastic windows are easier to care for than wooden structures. They do not need to be varnished, painted or insulated for the winter. It is enough to periodically wipe the window frame with a damp cloth to remove dust. As for the care of the mechanisms, there are some peculiarities. It is also necessary to keep the rubber seals in good condition. If you treat the mechanisms correctly and care for them, your plastic window may last for decades.

Care for the mechanisms of the plastic window

The construction of the window includes the mechanisms that open the sash, locks, handle. Their serviceability determines the tightness of the window, the tightness of the sash and the comfort of using the product. Consider a few peculiarities of maintenance of plastic window parts:

• If the window handle is loose, it is transferred to the horizontal position and tighten the screws. After that, it may at first a little squeaky. To avoid this, the parts are pre-lubricated with machine oil or a special agent for metal parts of windows.
• Inside the window on the bottom of the frame are grooves to remove moisture from the condensate. You need to make sure they are not clogged with dust. Channels cleaned with a soft wire or vacuum cleaner.
• All moving parts of mechanisms of a window are lubricated at least 3 times a year.

Care of sealing rubbers

The elasticity of rubber seals determines the tightness of the window and insulation against draughts. If a whitish film is forming on their surface, it means they are covered with dust and have begun to dry out. This leads to hardening of the rubber. It loses its elasticity. Then the sash will not fit tightly to the frame.

To keep the rubber seal soft for a long time, it is regularly cleaned from dust and treated with special care products for rubber. This cleaning of the seals is usually enough for two times a year.

Caring for PVC window profiles

Polyvinyl chloride, of which plastic window frames are made, deteriorates from the effects of acids and solvents such as acetone. Alkaline substances and abrasives are also not suitable for cleaning PVC windows. You can use a weak soapy solution, remove it with a damp cloth and wipe it dry. Also use special products for the care of plastic windows.

How to avoid condensation

Sometimes moisture forms on the inside surface of windows and runs down to the window sill. This happens for several reasons. The windows may not be installed correctly.

If the window sill is too wide, it interferes with the circulation of warm air from the heating radiators. The glass is not heated and remains much colder than the air in the room. Because of this, condensation forms. You can replace the window sill with a narrower one. Also monitor the quality of air exchange. It is necessary to ventilate the room regularly, you can install a quality ventilation system.

Taking care of plastic windows regularly, it is possible to keep them airtight. The movement of mechanisms will remain smooth, and plastic frames white.