No matter what type of windows your property has, cleaning and maintaining them is a vital job. Performing maintenance on your windows is important to ensure their longevity. If you don’t take adequate care of your windows and frames, you may find they begin to look dull or even cease to function properly. This is especially so for aluminium window frames.
In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of aluminium window frames, why they need to be maintained properly and what to do to maintain them.
The Advantages and Drawbacks of Aluminium Window Frames
Aluminium windows offer robust performance, minimal need for upkeep and an aesthetically pleasing option for those seeking large contemporary windows. They are especially effective when it comes to energy efficiency when paired with double glazing.
Benefits of Aluminium Window Frames
- Durability and Strength: Aluminium frames are highly resistant to warping, flexing and corrosion. This gives them a very long lifespan when properly maintained.
- Contemporary Design: Aluminium frames are sleek and slim, making them fantastic for large glass windows. This makes them ideal for those seeking modern aesthetics and a means to maximise natural light.
- Requires Little Maintenance: Aluminium is very easy to clean and, unlike some other frame materials, requires no painting.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern designs of aluminium window frames come with thermal breaks. This reduces heat loss and will lower your property’s energy bills. This is especially so when combined with double-glazing.
- Pest Resistant: Aluminium is immune to termites and other pests.
- Environmentally Friendly: Aluminium is 100% recyclable.
Drawbacks of Aluminium Window Frames
- Cost: Aluminium can be more expensive than uPVC and other materials when it comes to upfront costs.
- Thermal Conductivity: Aluminium frames designed without thermal breaks can lead to poorer thermal performance. This may lead to condensation.
- Noise Transmission: This material may transmit more outside sounds than other material. However, this can be greatly improved through double glazing.
- Complex Installation: Aluminium frames require careful installation to avoid gaps. Additionally replacing the glass in these frames can be more difficult.
What Happens if Your Aluminium Frames are Poorly Maintained
Neglecting your aluminium frames may cause aesthetic and functional consequences. These include:
- Faded and Dull Finish: Over time, you may find that shiny aluminium finishes lose their shine. Additionally, powder coatings may lose their sheen, becoming less vibrant and chalky.
- Oxidisation: Salt, dirt and moisture can become trapped on the surface of the frames, causing accelerated oxidation. This is a chemical process that involves a substance losing electrons. On a chemical level this involves the gain of oxygen or loss of hydrogen, leading to an increase in its oxidation state. This can form a dull, whitish layer that can pit the surface of your aluminium.
- Corrosion: Aluminium corrosion can cause the metal to become dull with white or rust coloured pits. This is a natural process which involves the gradual decay of aluminium into aluminium oxide. This oxide forms a protective and self-healing layer, making aluminium resistant. However, this layer can break down when exposed to salt, dirt or extreme pH, leading to damage. This can be avoided by maintaining your aluminium frames.
- Poor Functionality: Debris, leaves and dirt can clog the window tracks. This can make it difficult to slide closed and open.
- Mould and Mildew: Trapped moisture from condensation or rain can lead to mould and mildew around the frame’s seals.
- Seal Damage: Over time, accumulation of dirt and dust can impact your windows’ seals. This may impact or compromise insulation.
- Generally Reduced Lifespan: Aluminium frames are very durable. However, like any material, it can break down over time, especially when neglected. This can lead to reduced aesthetic appeal and functional issues, impacting your investment.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Aluminium Window Frames
Cleaning your aluminium frames is simpler than you might imagine. In general, aluminium windows need to be cleaned every 3 to 4 months for general upkeep. However, if your property is in a harsh coastal area or industrial area, you will need to clean your window frames monthly.
Step by Step to Clean Your Aluminium Frames
- Debris and Dust Removal: Prior to washing, use a dry and soft cloth or a vacuum with brush attachment to remove dust, dirt and cobwebs from tracks, frames and corners.
- Wash With Soap & Water: To wash your aluminium frames, use a soft cloth loaded with mild dish soap or a pH-neutral detergent with warm water.
- Gently Scrub Your Window – Be sure to use a sponge or soft cloth to gently wipe down your frames. Make sure you gently scrub stubborn spots.
- Rinse Completely: Make sure to rinse off all soap residue with clean water.
- Dry the Windows: To prevent streaks and water spots, dry the frames with a clean squeegee or soft cloth.
Tips for Effective Cleaning
- Focus on the Tracks: Dirt and debris can build up on the tracks and hidden areas can cause issues around drainage or poor opening and closing. Be sure to be mindful of these areas.
- Hard Stain Removal: If your window frames have stubborn stains or marks, use a rubber eraser, soft bristled brush or non-abrasive cloth. This can be combined with a mild cream cleaner. Try this on an inconspicuous area first.
- Lubricate: Be sure to apply lubricant spray to hinges and moving parts periodically. This will ensure smooth operation.
- Clean Annually: Aim to give your aluminium window frames two comprehensive cleans a year with regular light cleanings every few months.
Looking for Aluminium Window Frames?
Oknalux is proud to offer aluminium frames among our products. Alternatively, we can offer uPVC, composite aluminium, or timber doubled glazed windows and frames.
We are committed to excellent customer service. This is why we have proudly claimed the title of the best double-glazing supplier in Adelaide for seven years consecutively.
Give us a call on (08) 8876 5300 for our Adelaide office or (02) 9833 2993 for our Sydney office. Alternatively, click the live chat button in the bottom right corner of our website to connect with our team.
