Aluminium windows are a fantastic investment for any Cambridge home, offering a blend of durability, security, and sleek, modern aesthetics. Their inherent strength allows for beautifully slim frames that maximise your view and flood your home with natural light. But like any premium feature, they require a little care to keep them looking and performing their best. As a local, FENSA and CPA approved company with over thirty years of experience in home improvements, our team at Designaview has seen it all. We have helped countless homeowners across Cambridge and the surrounding areas maintain the value and performance of their properties.
Many homeowners believe that because aluminium is so robust, it requires no maintenance at all. While they are certainly low maintenance compared to other materials, a few simple checks and quick fixes can prevent common issues, extend their lifespan, and ensure they remain a stunning feature of your home. This guide provides our expert advice, drawn from decades of hands on experience, to help you care for your aluminium windows. Whether you have contemporary grey aluminium windows or classic white frames, these tips will keep them in pristine condition for years to come.
The Importance of Regular Cleaning
The first and most fundamental step in window maintenance is regular cleaning. Airborne dust, rain residue, and city pollutants can accumulate on both the glass and the frames, dulling the finish and potentially affecting the moving parts over time. For homes in busy parts of Cambridge, this is particularly important. A simple cleaning routine will preserve the look of your slim aluminium windows and prevent long term buildup. We recommend cleaning your windows at least twice a year, or more frequently if you live near a main road or industrial area.
To clean the frames, use a soft cloth or sponge with a solution of warm water and a mild, non abrasive, pH neutral detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive scouring pads, as these can damage the powder coated or anodised finish that protects the aluminium. Wipe the frames down gently, paying close attention to corners where dirt can gather. For the glass, a standard glass cleaner or a simple mixture of water and vinegar works wonders. Use a squeegee for a professional, streak free finish. This simple task makes a huge difference, not just for your aluminium windows but for your entire suite of aluminium doors and windows, maintaining a cohesive and clean look for your property.
Maintaining Hardware for Smooth Operation
The functionality of your windows depends entirely on their hardware: the locks, handles, and hinges. These moving parts can become stiff or difficult to operate over time due to dust and lack of lubrication. Regularly checking and maintaining this hardware is a quick fix that ensures your windows open, close, and lock smoothly and securely. At least once a year, take a moment to inspect all moving components. Check for any signs of wear, loose fittings, or corrosion. Tighten any loose screws on handles or locking mechanisms with an appropriate screwdriver, but be careful not to overtighten them.
A light lubrication is key to smooth operation. We advise using a silicone based lubricant spray on hinges and locking mechanisms. Avoid using oil based products like WD40 for this purpose, as they can attract dust and dirt, eventually creating a sticky residue that makes the problem worse. A quick spray into the moving parts, followed by opening and closing the window a few times to work the lubricant in, is all that is needed. This simple step keeps everything moving freely and helps protect your investment, ensuring your windows remain easy to use and secure for the long haul.
Checking and Clearing Drainage Channels
A feature of modern aluminium double glazed windows that is often overlooked is the drainage system. Small, discreet holes or slots are engineered into the base of the window frame. Their purpose is to allow any water that gets into the frame channel, for instance from condensation or driving rain, to drain away to the outside. If these drainage channels become blocked with dirt, leaves, or insects, water can back up. In the worst case scenario, this trapped water can overflow into your home, causing damage to internal sills and walls. It can also lead to corrosion or premature failure of the sealed unit.
Checking these channels is a simple but vital maintenance task. Visually inspect the holes along the bottom of your window frames from the outside. You can use a small, soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle to gently clear away any debris you see. To ensure they are clear, you can carefully pour a small amount of water into the internal track and check that it runs freely out of the external drainage holes. Keeping these clear is one of the most effective quick fixes for preventing water related issues and is an essential part of caring for your aluminium windows.
Inspecting Seals for Optimal Energy Efficiency
The rubber or synthetic seals, also known as gaskets, around the perimeter of your glass units and opening sashes play a crucial role in the performance of your windows. They create an airtight barrier that prevents draughts and water ingress, and they are fundamental to the thermal efficiency of your aluminium double glazed windows. Over time, these seals can perish, shrink, or become dislodged. A compromised seal allows cold air in and warm air out, leading to uncomfortable draughts and higher energy bills. It also reduces the window’s acoustic insulation.
We recommend inspecting the seals annually. Run your fingers along them to check for any areas that have become hard, cracked, or brittle. Look for any gaps, particularly in the corners where the seals meet. If a seal has simply come loose from its channel, you can often gently push it back into place. However, if the seals are damaged or have shrunk, they will need replacing to restore the window’s performance. This is a task that might require professional assistance to ensure the correct profile seal is used and fitted properly. Maintaining healthy seals is vital for keeping your Cambridge home warm and your energy costs down.
Knowing When Maintenance Isn’t Enough
While these maintenance tips can significantly prolong the life and performance of your windows, there comes a time when a repair or replacement is the only viable option. Recognising the signs that your windows have reached the end of their functional life can save you from issues like water damage, poor security, and excessive energy loss. One of the most obvious signs of failure in double glazed units is condensation or misting between the two panes of glass. This indicates that the airtight seal has broken and the insulating gas has escaped, meaning the unit is no longer providing effective thermal insulation.
Other signs include frames that are visibly warped, dented, or corroded beyond a simple cosmetic fix. You might also find that your windows are consistently draughty despite the seals appearing intact, or that the locking mechanisms are broken and can no longer secure the window properly. If you are facing any of these issues, it is time to consider replacing aluminum windows. Modern replacements offer vastly superior thermal performance, enhanced security features, and updated aesthetics. Upgrading can transform your home’s comfort and can even increase its market value, making it a worthwhile investment.
Explore Your Options with a Trusted Local Expert
From stunning slim aluminium windows that offer panoramic views to advanced smart aluminium windows with integrated security sensors, the options available today are more impressive than ever. As a local company with over 30 years of dedicated experience, Designaview is perfectly positioned to offer trusted advice. We are a FENSA and CPA approved company, which means our work is continuously vetted for quality and compliance, giving you complete peace of mind. Our expertise covers the full range of home improvements, from windows and doors to cladding and structural alterations.
We are proud to serve homes across Cambridge, Hertford, Hitchin, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, and throughout Bedfordshire and London. If you have concerns about your current windows or are considering an upgrade, our team provides quality installations and long lasting results. Contact Designaview today for a no obligation consultation. Let us help you keep your home beautiful, secure, and efficient.
