How Do I Look After My New Windows and Doors?

You’ve just had new windows or doors installed, and whilst you’re pleased with how they look and perform, you’re probably wondering what you need to do to keep them that way.

Conveniently, modern windows and doors need very little maintenance. uPVC requires virtually nothing beyond occasional cleaning and some lubrication. Aluminium is similarly low-maintenance. Composite doors need slightly more attention due to their weight, but it’s still straightforward.

There are a few warranty requirements you need to be aware of in that first year, and some simple habits in the first few weeks that will prevent minor issues from becoming bigger problems down the line.

What Should I Check in the First 48 Hours After My Installation?

Test Everything Properly

Don’t just open and close each window once. Test every function multiple times:

• Opening and closing should feel smooth without sticking
• Locking mechanisms should engage firmly without wobbling
• Handles should turn easily and return to position
• Trickle vents should open and close without resistance
• Restrictors should limit opening correctly (especially important for child safety)

For doors, test the full swing, check the threshold doesn’t catch, and ensure letterplates and handles work properly. If something doesn’t feel right, report it as soon as you can.

Remove Protective Film Promptly

Most new windows and doors arrive with protective film on frames and glass. Your installer should remove most of this, but check carefully – strips sometimes get missed in corners.

Remove any remaining film within 48 hours. If left longer, especially in sunlight, it can occasionally bond to the surface and become difficult to remove without leaving residue.

Keep Your Paperwork Safe

After installation, you should be provided with a FENSA certificate, product warranties, care instructions, and proof of insurance-backed guarantee. Keep these with your important home documents – you’ll need the FENSA certificate when you sell your property.

How Do I Look After uPVC Windows and Doors?

uPVC is the most popular choice because it requires minimal maintenance and lasts 20-25 years with basic care.

Cleaning (every 3-4 months): Wash frames with warm water and washing-up liquid. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or anything containing bleach. Clean glass with standard glass cleaner or vinegar solution.

Moving parts (twice a year): Use light machine oil or silicone spray on hinges. A small amount of petroleum jelly works well for locking mechanisms. Spring and autumn are good times to do this.

Drainage slots: uPVC windows have small drainage slots along the bottom of the frame. Check these every few months – they can get blocked with dirt or debris, particularly in autumn. Clear them with a small brush or cotton bud.

What uPVC doesn’t need: You don’t need to paint, stain, or treat uPVC. If someone tries to sell you a uPVC coating service, save your money.

How Do I Care for Aluminium Windows and Doors?

Cleaning (every 2-3 months): Wash with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly. For coastal properties or homes near busy roads, increase this to monthly cleaning – salt spray and traffic pollution can be a problem for aluminium that isn’t cared for properly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or wire wool.

Hardware (twice a year): Lubricate moving parts with light machine oil or silicone spray on hinges, handles and locking points.

Drainage: Check weep holes aren’t blocked, particularly after storms or high winds.

What aluminium doesn’t need: The powder-coated finish doesn’t need repainting. If you notice scratches or chips, contact your installer – most warranties cover this within the guarantee period.

What Maintenance Do Composite Doors Need?

GRP skin: Clean the outer glass-reinforced plastic skin like uPVC – warm soapy water every few months. The finish is through-colour, so minor scratches are less noticeable. Deeper scratches can usually be buffed out with specialist composite door repair kits.

Frame: Follow uPVC care guidelines – wash every few months with soapy water.

Hardware (every 6 months): Composite doors are heavier than uPVC equivalents, putting more strain on hinges. Check these twice a year and lubricate moving parts.

If the door starts to drop slightly (catching on the threshold or gaps change at the top), the hinges need adjusting. Your installer can show you how, or it’s covered in your care instructions. Don’t ignore this – a dropped door puts strain on the locking mechanism and causes premature wear.

What Are the Warranty Requirements for New Windows?

Most window and door warranties have specific maintenance requirements. Fail to meet these, and your warranty could be void.

What’s typically required:

• Annual cleaning and lubrication of moving parts (30 minutes for an average house)
• Keeping drainage slots clear
• Reporting defects promptly
• Using appropriate cleaning products

Common Questions in the First Few Months

“My new windows feel stiff to open. Is this normal?”

If they were fine initially and have become stiff, contact your installer. They may need lubrication or minor hinge adjustment.

“There’s condensation on my new windows. Did something go wrong?”

Condensation on the inside surface is normal – your windows are preventing warm, moist air from escaping. Improve ventilation using trickle vents. Condensation between the panes means a sealed unit has failed – contact your installer immediately.

“The white uPVC already looks grubby. How do I keep it clean?”

Regular washing prevents dirt from building up. White uPVC in dusty or polluted areas shows dirt more than coloured options. Clean every 2-3 months rather than waiting until it looks obviously dirty.

When to Call Your Installer vs Sorting It Yourself

Call your installer for: Any defect within the first year, locks or handles that don’t work properly, misted or cracked glass, doors or windows that won’t close properly, water penetration or draughts, and major adjustments.

Handle yourself: Regular cleaning and lubrication, clearing drainage slots, minor trickle vent adjustments, removing protective film, and general surface cleaning.

Setting Up a Simple Maintenance Routine

Spring: Full clean, lubricate moving parts, check and clear drainage slots

Autumn: Clear leaves and debris, lubricate moving parts, check seals and weatherstripping

This takes about an hour twice a year for an average-sized house, plus occasional light cleaning. It’s minimal effort for products that should last 20+ years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after installation should I start cleaning my new windows?

Wait at least a week to let sealants fully cure, then clean as normal. Remove protective film within 48 hours, though.

Can I use a pressure washer on uPVC or aluminium windows?

Technically, yes, but keep pressure low and maintain distance. High pressure can damage seals around glazing units. Hand washing is safer and just as effective.

Do I need to adjust hinges myself or should this be done professionally?

Minor hinge adjustments on uPVC and composite doors are straightforward if you’re confident with basic tools. For aluminium, or if you’re unsure, call your installer.

What happens if I don’t maintain my windows according to warranty requirements?

Warranty claims may be rejected if you can’t demonstrate proper care. The good news is that proper care is minimal – basic cleaning and lubrication twice a year.

Need Help or Advice?

If you’re unsure about anything regarding your new windows or doors, we’re here to help. All our installations come with comprehensive aftercare support. Visit our showroom in Dunston, Lincolnshire, or give us a call.