Summer maintenance for ALU and PVC windows and doors – a practical guide to longevity and functionality

Exterior windows and doors are more than an aesthetic element: they form a functional barrier between your home and external influences. In summer, with rising temperatures, stronger UV radiation and more airborne dust and pollen, ALU and PVC windows and doors can face additional stress affecting long-term durability.

As a company that has been has spent 28 years actively modernising residential and commercial spaces through quality windows and doors, we would like to share a detailed guide to preserving their appearance, functionality and insulation even during the hottest season.

1. Regular, correct surface cleaning

Surface cleaning of PVC and ALU profiles is one of the most important summer maintenance steps. High temperatures accelerate evaporation, which combined with fine airborne particles can leave marks on windows and doors.

Recommendations:

• Use lukewarm water i mild detergents without alcohol, acetone or harsh chemicals.

• Ideal solution: a few drops of washing-up liquid in 5 litres of water.

• Wipe surfaces with a soft microfibre cloth – avoid wire scourers, brushes and abrasive sponges that can scratch the profile surface.

• Use cotton buds or a soft brush for hard-to-reach areas such as corners and edges.

For aluminium windows and doors with anodised or powder-coated finishes, take particular care not to damage the protective layer – correct cleaning ensures lasting colour and corrosion resistance.

2. Hardware maintenance – functionality from within

Hardware comprises the mechanical parts enabling opening, closing, microventilation and sash tilting. Summer material expansion can hinder hardware operation if it is dirty or not lubricated.

Hardware maintenance tips:

• Inspect all moving parts at least annually, ideally in July/August.

• Remove dust and grease using a dry cloth or brush.

• Lubricate them with specialist window and door oils (never WD-40 or engine oil, as these can damage rubber and plastic parts).

• Check that handles turn smoothly and sashes seat properly; irregularities may indicate adjustment is needed.

3. Seals – quiet guardians of energy efficiency

Rubber seals provide airtightness and protection from noise and moisture. High summer temperatures and UV radiation can cause rubber to lose elasticity, crack or distort.

Seal maintenance:

• Check that the rubber is soft, elastic and firmly seated in its groove.

• If cracked or coming loose, replacement is recommended.

• Protect seals with silicone spray (available from hardware shops), which softens them, preserves elasticity and prevents sticking to the frame.

• Ideally, apply spray every 6 months; summer is a good time.

4. Checking and cleaning drainage openings

PVC and ALU windows have small openings at the bottom of the frame to drain moisture from inside the profiles. Blocked openings can trap water, eventually causing mould or damage to internal chambers.

Recommended maintenance:

• Visually check that openings are clear.

• Use a plastic straw, stick or soft brush to remove debris.

• Do not use metal objects that could damage the frame.

5. Protection from sunlight and overheating

Although modern PVC and ALU profiles resist UV radiation, prolonged sunlight exposure – especially on south- and west-facing facades – may cause slight fading, particularly in dark colours.

How to protect your windows and doors:

• Installationexternal roller shutters, blinds, pergolas or awnings reduces direct frame heating.

• Insulating glazing with Low-E or reflective coatings reduces indoor heat and protects windows and doors from inside.

• Interior curtains and reflective films further reduce indoor UV radiation.

BONUS TIP 

Annual servicing

For users wanting flawless operation for years, we recommend annual servicing by an authorised technician.

SAPLAST servicing includes:

Detailed inspection of all fittings and seals

Window and door adjustment

Advice on possible upgrades (e.g. insect screens, additional locks or replacement seals)

Regular summer maintenance of ALU and PVC windows and doors is simple but brings many benefits: longer service life, preserved energy savings, fewer unnecessary faults and an immaculate appearance.

Your windows and doors are a long-term investment. Use the summer months to keep them in the best possible condition.

For further questions or professional servicing, contact our team. At SAPLAST we are always ready to help, because we know how important a safe, comfortable, energy-efficient home is throughout the year.

Long-term value with the SAPLAST standard

At SAPLAST, we deliver solutions meeting high technical, functional and aesthetic demands. Our expertise, modern technology and individual approach are recognised throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina and the European Union.

For 28 years, we have built trust through quality workmanship, reliable installation and long-term aftercare, because our goal extends beyond filling openings to opening long-term partnerships.

Contact us

For further information, technical advice or a quote, contact our sales team using the website contact form or visit our showroom.