When choosing to install timber windows in your new home, replacing existing windows or refurbishing current timber windows in your home make sure you get into a good habit from the start of cleaning your windows.
1. General Clean
If you have a pressure cleaner, every couple of weeks give your windows a good spray, this will help decrease the amount of build up on the outside of your windows. Cleaning your windows as regularly as you can will help in the long run with the health of your windows. For added cleaning habits that you should implement every few months, To remove general environmental grime and lift dirt, use a pH-neutral detergent diluted in warm water and a soft brush to gently wash all exposed timber surfaces. Once cleaned, thoroughly rinse the frame with fresh water to remove any remaining detergent and grime.
2. Paint Your Windows
Even with a great cleaning schedule, over time paint will inevitably start to flake. Over time painted surfaces that are exposed to the elements will experience flaking and discolouration. A fresh coat of paint every few years will keep your windows and doors looking as good as new and as resilient as ever.
3. Maintaining Stained Windows
When it comes to looking after and maintaining your strained windows, general cleaning is a great idea, stained windows and doors are easily maintaintained by wiping down the exposed surfaces with a standard mix of ph-neutral detergent and warm water. Apply the solution sparingly and wipe the frames down immediately after. This will help extend the life of stained finish. To add extra insurance to your stained windows, it is really important you add a diligent approach to an annual or bi annual re stain, just like pain, your windows are exposed to the elements everyday and to ensure you get the best quality for the longest time it is important you look after the stain quality on your windows.
4. Hardware Maintenance
To clean all stainless steel finishes we suggest using a warm soapy water or a mild detergent and a soft cloth. We recommended rinsing with clean water and dry/wipe with a clean to help avoid water marks.
If tea staining (brown discolouration of the surface) does occur, this is not a defect – it will occur naturally in coastal and industrial environments.Regular cleaning will reduce this issue. Tea staining can be removed with Ajax, warm water and baking powder – use a toothbrush to clean it with. Application of CRC Marine 66 or Inox for Marine will reduce this occurrence.The operational life of all window and door hardware is increased if a light machine oil is applied to moving parts, hinges, slides, etc.
5. Removing Mould and Mildew
Mildew, grime and build up is a common cause of discolouration with timber framed windows and doors, this is caused by being exposed to the elements everyday. In order to maintain the appearance and general lifespan of your timber framed windows and doors, it is important to remove mildew, mould and build up when it appears. As bleach-based products can strip stains, varnishes and oils, using a mixture of one part vinegar to four parts oil will provide a natural alternative to effectively removing mould and mildew without discolouring the finish of your frames. When it is time to refinish your frames, adding an effective mildewcide to your chosen stain, oil or varnish may assist in preventing further mildew in the future.
HOT TIP; With the correct paint, painting technique, finish and sealing you will protect your timber windows and doors for a longer period of time.
