Aluminium Windows Maintenance Complete Guide

Aluminium windows combine utility and design for both homes and offices, making them long-lasting and easy to maintain. While they are low-maintenance and long-lasting, they still require adequate care to maintain their function and elegant appearance. Aluminium windows provide benefits such as durability, weather resistance, and eco-friendliness, as well as various style options to suit any décor. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspections keep them in top condition for years. This guide explores the key advantages of aluminium windows along with simple maintenance practices to keep them functioning and looking their best.

Quick Tip to Maintain Your Aluminium Windows

1. Regular Cleaning 

Aim to clean the interior and exterior of your aluminium windows at least twice yearly. Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a mild detergent to gently wipe down the window frames and glass. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, which can lead to scratches. Pay special attention to tracks and sills where dirt and debris can accumulate.

2. Inspect Weather Stripping and Seals  

Ensure your windows have proper weather sealing by inspecting the weather stripping around the sashes and frames. Look for signs of cracking, brittleness, and missing sections. Replace damaged or missing weatherstripping to maintain the window's weatherproofing and energy efficiency. Make sure drainage holes along the sill are clear of debris.

3. Check for Condensation Issues

Signs of excessive condensation between windowpanes may indicate a broken seal that requires window reglazing or replacement. Have a professional assess the issue rather than attempting to reglaze the window yourself. Routine replacement of window unit seals/gaskets can also help prevent seal failure and condensation buildup. 

4. Lubricate Moving Parts

To keep your aluminium windows in tip-top shape, apply a touch of spray lubricant to hinges, locks, and opening mechanisms twice a year. Afterwards, wipe off any extra lubricant. Regularly check for loose or worn hardware and tighten or replace it as necessary to ensure smooth operation. This simple routine maintenance will go a long way in preserving the functionality and longevity of your windows.

5. Protect Exterior Window Finishes 

Aluminium windows typically have a baked enamel, powder-coated or anodised exterior finish. Protect finishes from premature fading and wear by washing exterior aluminium surfaces at least annually. Apply an aluminium polish/cleaner for added protection and sheen. Touch up paint any scratches immediately.  

6. Check for Signs of Water Damage

Inspect window frames, sills, and surrounding wall areas for signs of moisture infiltration like peeling paint, swollen wood, mould/mildew growth or water staining. Identify and repair the source of leaks before further damage occurs. Keep plants, mulch, and soil several inches away from windows to allow proper drainage and airflow.

7. Recaulk Window Perimeter 

Examine the caulk seals around the window frames and replace them if signs of cracking, shrinking or gaps appear. Use a high-quality, exterior-grade caulk designed for windows. Follow all preparation and application directions carefully. 

Professionally Reglaze Windows When Needed

Suppose you notice cloudiness between your windowpanes caused by broken seals. In that case, it's best to enlist the expertise of a seasoned window professional for reglazing instead of tackling the complex DIY reglazing process. Hiring a professional ensures a thorough and effective solution, avoiding potential complications that may arise from attempting it yourself. Trusting the task to a skilled professional guarantees a clearer and more successful outcome for your windows.

When to Call a Professional 

While some basic aluminium window maintenance tasks can be DIY, others like reglazing, major repairs or replacements should be left to the skilled pros. Hire a professional window expert like AIS Windows if you have doubts or feel uncomfortable completing the work safely.

Benefits of installing Aluminium Windows

1. Little to No Maintenance

Aluminium windows stay completely free of rust and discolouration. Therefore, taking care of them is convenient, affordable, and quick. And the best part is that you only need to clean them once every six months. All you need is some soap, water, soft cloth, and grease to maintain aluminium windows. Once you have collected these four items, start cleaning your windows from the top and work your way down.

2. High Energy Efficiency

Aluminium windows are known for their superior fit and high energy efficiency. When used with the right glass pane, they are great at insulating your homes for enhanced thermal comfort. During the summer, they don’t allow the cool conditioned air to slip out, whereas during the winter they don’t let the warmer air leak out, thus keeping your internal temperatures optimal.

3. Supreme Durability

Aluminium windows require only a one-time monetary investment, after which they last for years on end. The unmatched longevity and durability of these windows exist because they are free from corrosion. They are also made to go through certain surface treatments that further enhance their performance and aesthetics. Whether you live in humid temperatures, or extremely arid conditions, the weather-resistant nature of aluminium windows will keep bringing you a solid return on your investment.

4. Great Aesthetics

When it comes to residential real estate, aluminium windows are a hallmark of contemporary architecture. It can be seamlessly customised into any colour and size to blend well with your décor. Another advantage of installing aluminium windows is that you can choose different colours for the frame. For example, if you have a substantial amount of wooden furniture and wood panelling as part of your décor, you can get aluminium windows in a timber tinge.

5. Environment-Friendly

Aluminium is 100% recyclable and reusable and hence, is a highly sustainable choice. Not only will this reduce your carbon footprint, but you can also replace your old aluminium windows and recycle them into new objects.

Conclusion

Aluminium windows are built to last, and with the right care, they’ll deliver even greater value over time. Stay consistent with simple maintenance, and don’t hesitate to call an expert for more complex issues. This balanced approach guarantees years of comfort, safety, and peace of mind. Contact AIS Windows: our professionals will assist you in resolving any Aluminium Windows Maintenance concerns.