One of the advantages of aluminum frames is their high durability with minimal maintenance (Frame Maintenance). No type of frame will last for a long time if its user does not follow some basic instructions regarding frame maintenance. The longevity and resistance over time of our frames depend on their proper use and maintenance.
Below, we will look at simple instructions for the proper maintenance of frames in general, and specifically by frame type (casement frames, sliding frames, shutters, roller blinds).
Basic maintenance instructions for all types of frames.
Frame Cleaning
Proper cleaning of our frames (doors, windows) is crucial for their longevity. Cleaning should be done frequently, depending on the location of our frames (e.g., urban areas, coastal areas, etc.). Additionally, we must be very careful with how we clean them and the cleaning products we choose. Read in detail how and when frame cleaning should be done.
Maintenance and lubrication of frame mechanisms
Frame mechanisms (doors, windows) should be lubricated annually to prevent creaking and increase their lifespan. Frame mechanisms include hinges and the moving parts of perimeter mechanisms in casement frames, and locks and handles in sliding frames. Lubrication should be done with machine oil or silicone spray, which can be easily found in many stores. When lubricating, you should not overdo it, and it should be done at the points where there is a special marking for lubrication (perimeter mechanisms of casement frames).
Under no circumstances and never lubricate the tracks of sliding frames and their rollers – wheels.
Maintenance of frame gaskets (rubbers)
We make sure to maintain the gaskets – rubbers of the frames annually using silicone spray. In case of wear and tear of the frame gaskets, we arrange for their replacement if the frames have clip-on gaskets and replacement is possible. Never pour oil or spray on the brushes of sliding frames; simply ensure dust removal with a vacuum cleaner.
Cleaning of frame drains – sills
At the bottom of the frame, clean the water drainage channels – sills (holes). Dust and dirt (leaves, stones, etc.) usually accumulate there. Use a vacuum cleaner to collect them and a simple damp cloth to wipe them. Washing aluminum frames, aluminum shutters, and roller blinds with pressure washers is not recommended and is dangerous. If you wish, you can use a hose for the slats of shutters, without high pressure, and not on recessed sliding frames, unless they have barriers – caps on their tracks.
A common problem caused by dust (stones, leaves, etc.) in sliding frames is the damage to their rollers – wheels. Therefore, we ensure that the tracks of sliding frames are always clean.
Finally, never step on the tracks and sills of our frames.
Correct frame handling, operating instructions, and improper use
Many problems in aluminum frames are caused by their incorrect use and insufficient knowledge regarding the operation of their mechanisms. Frames should never ‘catch’, be forced to lock, etc.
Consult your frame manufacturer for the correct use of your frames.
Maintenance of old frames
Old frames can also be maintained in simple ways. Read more in our article maintenance of old frames.
Do not drill or hang objects from your frames.
Holes should never be made in our frames, especially if they are energy-efficient – thermally broken. If this is necessary, you should first contact your frame manufacturer to advise you on the least damaging method. Do not hang objects from the handles of your frames.
Scratches on frames and paint problems.
If you see scratches on the frames or paint problems, read what to do in our article scratches on frames.
Long-term maintenance and service of frames
In addition to periodic maintenance of a frame, long-term maintenance is also essential. After approximately 10 years of operation, it is advisable to replace some key functional parts of the frame, which will give it a refresh and the feeling of a new frame. Long-term maintenance and servicing of frames should be carried out by our frame manufacturer or a specialized workshop. The points that should be checked for possible replacement or adjustment after approximately 10 years of operation are the following:
- Inspection and possible replacement of all gaskets – rubbers of our frames
- Re-glazing of panes for proper operation (closing, opening) of the frame and to prevent the sashes from ‘catching’.
- Inspection of frame mechanisms, repair, and possible replacement with new, more secure ones.
- Inspection of plastics and possible replacement.
- Inspection and repositioning of sealing materials (silicones, etc.)
- Lubrication of mechanisms and moving parts.
- Inspection and possible replacement of rollers – wheels of sliding frames
- Replacement of brushes in sliding frames located at the sealing corners.
Inspection and correct installation of aluminum frames.
We all know that the correct installation of our frames plays a crucial role in their operation. See simple tips on how to check the proper installation of frames.
Maintenance instructions and cleaning of screens – insect screens
How to maintain or clean a screen – insect screen? See the instructions below or download the screen maintenance instructions from the frame library.
