How to Clean uPVC Windows and Doors
Our guide tells you How to Clean uPVC Windows and Doors and what chemicals you should NEVER use on your uPVC.
maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of our windows, frames, and doors is an essential task. One material that has gained immense popularity in recent years is uPVC (unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride), which offers a range of benefits, including durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance.
However, even with its advantages, uPVC surfaces can become discolored, stained, or accumulate mold over time, requiring a thorough cleaning regimen to keep them looking their best. uPVC, or unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, is a versatile and widely-used material in the construction and home improvement industry. It has become a popular choice for windows, frames, and doors due to its numerous advantages, such as:
uPVC is highly resistant to weathering, UV rays, and corrosion, making it a long-lasting and low-maintenance option.
uPVC frames are excellent insulators, helping to improve the overall energy efficiency of a home and reduce heating and cooling costs.
How to Clean Inside uPVC Windows and Doors Frames
Cleaning the interior of your uPVC windows and Doors frames is an essential step in maintaining their appearance and functionality. Here’s how to do it:
Gather the Necessary Tools: Assemble a soft-bristled brush, a microfiber cloth, and a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution.
Prepare the Frames: Start by removing any loose dirt or debris using the soft-bristled brush. Gently brush away any accumulated dust or grime.
Apply the Cleaning Solution: Lightly spray or dab the cleaning solution onto the interior of the window frames, being careful not to let it drip onto the glass.
Wipe and Dry: Use the microfiber cloth to gently wipe the frames, ensuring you reach all the nooks and crannies. Buff the frames dry with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots.
Check for Stubborn Stains: For any persistent stains or discoloration, you can use a small amount of white vinegar or a specialized uPVC cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Clean uPVC Window Frames
Cleaning the exterior of your uPVC window frames is equally important to maintain their pristine appearance. Here’s how to approach it:
Gather the Necessary Tools: Assemble a soft-bristled brush, a microfiber cloth, a bucket of warm water, and a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution.
Prepare the Frames: Start by removing any loose dirt or debris using the soft-bristled brush. Gently brush away any accumulated dust or grime.
Mix the Cleaning Solution: In the bucket of warm water, add a small amount of the mild cleaning solution and stir to create a gentle cleaning mixture.
Apply the Cleaning Solution: Dip the microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and wipe the exterior of the window frames, ensuring you reach all the surfaces.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the frames with clean water to remove any residual cleaning solution, then use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the frames until they are streak-free and shiny.
For any stubborn stains or discoloration, you can use a small amount of white vinegar or a specialized uPVC cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Thinking About uPVC Triple-Glazed Windows?
What Not to Use on Your uPVC Window Frame
- DON'T use a glass cleaner on the frames
- DON'T use bleach, methylated spirits, white spirits or WD40
- DON'T use cream cleaners, scouring powder or other abrasive cleaners
- DON'T use caustic or ammonia-based cleaning agents
- DON'T use steel wool or scouring pads
- And remember that cellulose thinners melt plastic.
How to Clean uPVC Window Sills
Cleaning the window sills is an often-overlooked but essential step in maintaining the overall appearance of your uPVC windows. Here’s how to approach it:
Gather the Necessary Tools: Assemble a soft-bristled brush, a microfiber cloth, a bucket of warm water, and a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution.
Prepare the Sills: Start by removing any loose dirt, debris, or dust using the soft-bristled brush.
Mix the Cleaning Solution: In the bucket of warm water, add a small amount of the mild cleaning solution and stir to create a gentle cleaning mixture.
Apply the Cleaning Solution: Dip the microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and wipe the window sills, ensuring you reach all the surfaces, including the corners and edges.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the sills with clean water to remove any residual cleaning solution, then use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the sills until they are streak-free and shiny.
For any stubborn stains or discoloration, you can use a small amount of white vinegar or a specialized uPVC cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Clean uPVC Doors
- Vacuum inside the frame and hinges
- Brush off dirt
- Use a warm soapy solution
- Rinse with clean water
Choose the right window type for your home
How to Clean Mould off uPVC Window Frames
Mold and mildew can be a common problem on uPVC window frames, especially in damp or humid environments. Here’s how to effectively remove it:
Apply the Mold and Mildew Remover: Spray or dab the mold and mildew remover directly onto the affected areas of the window frames, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Scrub and Rinse: Use the soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the frames, working the cleaning solution into the affected areas. Rinse the frames thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual cleaner.
Dry the Frames: Use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the frames until they are streak-free and dry.
It’s important to address mold and mildew issues promptly, as they can not only detract from the appearance of your uPVC windows but also pose potential health risks. If the problem persists or the mold is widespread, consider consulting a professional cleaning service for a more thorough treatment.
How Can I Get My uPVC White Again?
Cheaper and older white uPVC frames have a history of turning yellow over time. If the problem is with quality, then there isn’t much you can do to get the whiteness back.
As previously noted, uPVC will be covered with tiny scratches that cause the frame to seem dull and discolored if it has been subjected to harm from an abrasive substance, a scouring pad, or years of use of a cream cleanser. There is nothing you can do to make the frames shine white again if this has happened.
If the frames are discoloured through years of grime and dirt, then you can try another magic trick with vinegar.
- Mix 1 cup vinegar to 4 cups hot water
- Use a spritzer bottle to spray on the uPVC
- Leave this for 10 minutes
- Use a clean dry cloth to wipe down
Avoid using wire wool, scouring pads, or other harsh materials under excessive pressure as they might cause lasting damage to the uPVC surface.
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Can You Use Bleach on uPVC Windows and Doors?
While bleach can be an effective cleaning agent for various surfaces, it’s generally not recommended for use on uPVC windows and Doors, frames. Here’s why:
Discoloration: Bleach can cause discoloration or yellowing of the uPVC material over time, compromising the overall appearance.
Damage to Seals and Hardware: The harsh chemicals in bleach can degrade the seals and hardware components of uPVC windows and doors, leading to potential leaks, sticking, or other functional issues.
Environmental Concerns: Bleach-based cleaners can be harmful to the environment and may not be the most eco-friendly option for cleaning uPVC surfaces.
Instead, it’s best to use a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution specifically designed for uPVC materials. These specialized cleaners are formulated to effectively remove dirt, grime, and stains without compromising the integrity or appearance of the uPVC surfaces.
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