Windows that aren’t energy efficient account for 18% heat loss in a home, which can mean hundreds of extra pounds on your energy bills. While there are ways of reducing heat loss like installing heavier curtains or changing the window’s frame, none is as effective as double glazed windows. That’s why most people invest in installing double glazing in their homes, which has helped them save a lot of cash in the long run.
If you are the proud owner of double glazed windows, then proper maintenance and care are necessary if you want them to continue to save you money on your energy bill. It’s not as challenging as you may think, and the end, it’ll save you a lot of money. Furthermore, a lack of care can result in the need to have double glazed windows changed.
Today, we will look at some suggestions that will help you clean your double glazed windows and some expert pointers in keeping them well-maintained.
Cleaning Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is built to be durable, and with the right cleaning routine, they can last even longer. It would be best to clean your windows at least once a month, and if you have double glazed bay window designs, twice a month. Here is the equipment you’ll need:
- Warm soapy water in a bucket (with a drop of vinegar)
- Window cleaning mop (or something similar)
- Squeegee and an old rag
- Microfibre cloth
- Newspaper
If you’re having trouble getting your double glazing to look spotless, then try to wash it on a cloudy day. Washing them when the sun is out will cause the water to dry too fast and result in ugly streaks and water spots. Let’s get started with the first step in the cleaning process.
Apply Warm Soapy Water Solution
Start by dipping your window cleaning mop into the bucket with the water. Once it’s sufficiently soaked, wring it out, removing as much water as you can. Applying too much water will lead to drips, which creates ugly streaks on the window.
Basically, the window cleaning mop should be damp but not dripping when you hold it above the bucket. After wringing it, begin to clean the double glazed windows in a side to side movement, ensuring that all of the panes are covered. You can complete this step twice if you feel your double glazed windows are dirty.
Drying Time
Once you applied a sufficient amount of soapy water, grab your squeegee as you’ll need it for the drying phase. Push the squeegee blade against the glass in the uppermost corner and pull it firmly across the window. Wipe the edge on the clean rag or wipe it across the window cleaning mop to remove filth and excess water.
The next step is to use the rag to wipe up excess water along the window’s bottom edge and then run it around the window’s border to remove any remaining soapsuds. Finally, wipe off any streaks using the microfibre cloth. Additionally, you can use a piece of newspaper to buff the window.
As you can see, it’s relatively easy to clean double glazed windows, but the glass is only the start as you’ll also need to clean the uPVC frames as well.
Cleaning the uPVC Frames
The most popular material used in the frames of double glazed windows is that of uPVC. The main benefit of high-quality uPVC frames is that they never need painting, plus the only maintenance they require is a wipe down with a damp cloth once every so often. Here is what you need:
- Microfibre cloth
- Soft-tipped brush
- Warm soapy water in a spray bottle
- Bucket of water
- Old rag
- Hose (For the outside)
It’s crucial not to use a scouring pad, wire wool or sponge as they will scratch the uPVC frame’s surface. Let’s begin with the first step of cleaning the frame of your double glazed windows.
Loosen the Dirt and Dust
With the soft-tipped brush, brush off any dust and dirt in order to loosen it. Then spray the warm soapy water solution onto all of the frames and use the microfibre to wipe the solution across the frames. Be cautious not to press down too hard on the frames, as it can scratch or dent them.
Water It Down
For this step, you’ll need to soak a rag into a bucket of water. Make sure it’s not dripping, and wipe all of the frames. If you are doing the outside area of your double glazed windows, then you can use a hose to water down the uPVC frames. Afterwards, you can either let it air dry or use a dry rag.
Maintenance of Double Glazed Windows
The maintenance of these energy-saving windows is relatively straightforward. Of course, suppose any significant deterioration has occurred on your double glazed windows. In that case, you’ll need to search online for “double glazed window repairs near me” or contact the window company that installed the windows.
Metal parts, such as hinges, do occasionally need lubricating, especially if they begin squeaking. Light machine oil is perfect for this job, but you should avoid applying any other oil. It would be best if you did this at least once a year.
If you notice condensation building up around the double glazed window, try to deal with it promptly, as it can lead to severe damages to the frame.
Take Care of Your Energy Efficient Windows
As you may have noticed, cleaning and maintaining double glazed windows is not complicated. By following the tips outlined in the article, you’ll significantly extend the life of the windows. If you don’t have double glazing yet, then don’t hesitate any longer, as they will benefit you in saving a lot on your energy bill.
If you need some repairs done on your double glazed windows or are interested in installing some in your home, contact us today! With a 4.92 rating on TrustAtRader and hundreds of satisfied clients, we are sure we can provide you with the best double glazing in the market.