The Best Tips for Proper Steel Window Maintenance: What You Should Remember

One excellent aspect about steel windows that you probably already know is that they don’t require extensive maintenance. They can last for decades without you having to contend with major parts replacement or restoration, and they aren’t prone to the usual problems that plague other window materials such as bowing, cracks, and so on. What’s more, if you choose your steel windows from a good manufacturer and ensure that they are properly coated and galvanised, you can’t go wrong. But it does pay to prolong your steel windows’ lifespan, and you can do this with the right maintenance. Here, then, are the best tips for proper steel window maintenance: what you should remember.

• Keep them clean

This is a relatively simple concept, but it’s easier said than done. It’s vital to ensure cleanliness, and you have to remember that cleaning the glass is not quite the same as cleaning the lacquered or brass fittings or the paint or bronze finish. The durability of your steel windows (and their cleanliness) will also depend on where you are located and whether or not the area has a fair amount of pollution or grime.

But for general cleaning, use a small amount of non-alkaline, gentle detergent mixed with warm water. Wipe down dirty or soiled spots and then rinse them with water and dry it off with a soft clean cloth. Don’t use abrasive products because this can damage the glass’ surface.

If your steel windows have dull chrome or dark bronze window fittings, you can clean these by wiping the area with soapy water. Do this twice a year. If you have lacquered or brass fittings, polish them with a high-quality wax polish once in a fortnight. The lacquer may fade eventually, but it won’t affect your windows’ function and usability. Here’s one more tip: if your windows’ functionality is affected in any way, it’s best not to try dealing with it yourself. You can always turn to experts in steel window restoration and Crittall replacement companies like Metwin.

• Oil the moving components

One other maintenance method you can do is keep the moving components lubricated. Oil components such as peg stays and bolt locks, hinges, and handles. You can do this twice a year in most cases, but if you are in an area with a lot of salt in the air, do it more frequently. Ensure that the peg stays, which allows you to keep your window open at a set distance, are always located on their stay pin every time you open the window so it doesn’t suddenly move. The hinges’ paint may begin peeling or flaking over time, but this doesn’t affect the function of your window as long you keep it well-oiled.

• Check and maintain putties, mastics, and silicone

If you have windows with sealants made of silicone or tape, assess these for splits that form lengthwise in between the frame/glass or compound. This may mean you have to replace the window sealant. Mastic and silicone can also discolour eventually, but this won’t affect your windows’ performance.

• Clear out the drainage holes and vents

You should also inspect the slots and drainage holes regularly, especially when you’ve experienced a lot of inclement weather, to ensure that they are not clogged. Check that any ventilation area isn’t blocked or covered as this can result in mould or condensation or window frame damage.