How to Maintain Your New Doors and Windows
Thank you for choosing Keystone Glazing for your new doors and windows. Your new installation has been fitted to provide long-lasting performance, security, energy efficiency and a great appearance for many years to come.
Because these are brand new products, maintenance requirements should be minimal to begin with. In most cases, lubrication should not be necessary during the first 12 months after installation, unless specifically advised otherwise or an issue arises. The main focus during this period is simple cleaning, basic checks and keeping the products free from dirt and debris.
1. Clean the Frames Regularly
To keep your new frames looking their best, clean them using warm soapy water and a soft cloth.
This is especially important if your property is:
- Near the coast
- Close to busy roads
- Exposed to higher levels of dust or pollution
Avoid using:
- Abrasive pads
- Bleach
- Solvent-based cleaners
- Harsh chemical products
These can damage the finish of your new frames and hardware.
2. Clean the Glass with Care
Glass should be cleaned using a standard non-abrasive glass cleaner or warm water with a soft microfibre cloth.
For best results:
- Remove dust first
- Use a clean lint-free cloth
- Avoid blades, scrapers or sharp tools on the glass
This will help maintain a clean finish without scratching the surface.
3. Keep Tracks, Thresholds and Rebate Areas Clear
New windows and doors work best when moving areas are kept clean and free from obstruction.
Check and clean:
- Door thresholds
- Window cills
- Sliding tracks
- Hinge areas
- Frame rebate areas
- Drainage points
Remove dust, grit, leaves, pet hair and general debris with a soft cloth, brush or vacuum where appropriate.
4. Do Not Over-Lubricate New Products
Because your doors and windows are newly installed, routine lubrication should not normally be required for at least the first 12 months.
Modern hinges, locks and mechanisms are designed to operate smoothly from new. Applying unnecessary lubricant too early can sometimes attract dirt and create build-up where it is not needed.
After the first 12 months, light lubrication of moving metal parts may be recommended as part of ongoing maintenance, depending on usage and exposure.
If you notice any stiffness, resistance or unusual operation within the first year, it is best to contact Keystone Glazing rather than applying oils or sprays straight away.
5. Check Seals and Gaskets Stay Clean
The seals around your new doors and windows help prevent draughts and water ingress.
From time to time:
- Wipe seals gently with a damp cloth
- Check they remain neatly in place
- Remove any visible dirt build-up
There is usually no need for any special treatment during the early life of the product.
6. Keep Drainage Holes Clear
Most modern windows and doors are designed with drainage channels or holes to allow any water to escape safely.
These should be checked occasionally and kept free from:
- Dirt
- Leaves
- Insects
- Building dust
- External debris
Blocked drainage can affect the performance of even a brand new installation, so this is one of the most important simple checks.
7. Use Doors and Windows Gently
Your new installation is designed for everyday use, but care should still be taken not to slam doors or force handles and locks.
Always:
- Close units smoothly
- Engage handles correctly
- Lock doors and windows without force
- Avoid using excessive pressure if something feels unusual
If anything does not feel quite right, contact us for advice rather than continuing to force the mechanism.
8. Understand Condensation
Condensation can sometimes appear on the inside of glass, especially during colder weather or in rooms with high moisture levels.
This does not necessarily indicate a fault with your new doors or windows.
To help reduce condensation:
- Ventilate rooms regularly
- Use trickle vents where fitted
- Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms
- Avoid drying clothes indoors without ventilation
Monitor the situation allowing a few weeks as a period of adjustment for your home’s climate.
Modern energy-efficient windows often reduce heat loss so effectively that internal humidity becomes more noticeable.
9. Look After Handles, Furniture and Finishes
Door handles, letterplates, hinges and other furniture should be cleaned gently using a soft damp cloth.
Avoid:
- Abrasive creams
- Strong chemical cleaners
- Aggressive metal polish unless specifically suitable for that finish
For homes in coastal areas, more regular cleaning is recommended to protect external hardware and maintain appearance.
10. Keep an Eye on How Everything Operates
With new installations, everything should operate smoothly. Occasionally, small adjustments may become necessary as products settle into everyday use.
Look out for:
- Doors catching slightly
- Handles feeling stiff
- Locks not engaging smoothly
- Windows not closing evenly
Do not try to force the product. If you notice any of the above, contact Keystone Glazing so we can advise accordingly.
11. Extra Care for Timber Products
If your installation includes timber doors or timber windows, these may require a little more ongoing care than uPVC or aluminium products.
We recommend:
- Regular gentle cleaning
- Checking the paint or stain finish periodically
- Monitoring exposed areas for wear over time
- Following any specific manufacturer care guidance provided
Timber is a beautiful natural product, but it does benefit from routine inspection to keep it performing and looking its best.
12. When to Contact Keystone Glazing
As these are newly installed doors and windows, you should not expect to carry out major maintenance. Regular cleaning and simple checks are usually all that is needed during the first year.
Please contact Keystone Glazing if you notice:
- Difficulty locking or unlocking
- A door dropping or catching
- Unusual draughts
- Water ingress
- Stiff handles or hinges
- Anything that does not seem quite right
We would always rather you get in touch early so that any minor issue can be checked promptly.
Keystone Glazing Aftercare Advice
Your new doors and windows have been installed to provide dependable performance, security and energy efficiency for years to come. A little simple care goes a long way, and during the first year especially, maintenance should be light and straightforward.
By keeping your new windows and doors clean, clear and properly used, you can help preserve their appearance and ensure they continue to operate exactly as intended.
If you ever have any questions about maintaining your new installation, please contact Keystone Glazing for advice.
