Millions of homes across the UK feature uPVC windows, doors and conservatories. While this substance arguably lacks the aesthetic charm of wood, it requires minimal maintenance. However, despite the relative ease at which uPVC can be cleaned, it is not immune to discolouration and the ravages of the British weather.
The brilliant white colour of most uPVC adds a certain ‘cleanness’ to a home, but this effect can be lost very quickly if regular cleaning doesn’t take place. In most cases, cleaning uPVC window frames and doors is a simple case of a wipe with a soft-fibre cloth. However, there may be times when more sophisticated cleaning methods are called for. Thankfully, restoring your uPVC’s showroom look is a relatively straightforward and quick process.
AVOID EXPENSIVE AND POTENTIALLY HARMFUL CLEANING CHEMICALS
There is very rarely any need to invest in expensive cleaning chemicals when restoring the brilliant white back to your window frames and doors. In fact, the use of some cleaning chemicals and tools might scratch your uPVC, or remove its shiny finish permanently. In the vast majority of cases, environmentally friendly methods of cleaning will suffice.
If you find that a simple wipe isn’t removing mildew, grime, dead bugs and dirt, you don’t need to buy expensive ‘specialist’ cleaning agents. Simply create a solution of one part vinegar and four parts water, and spray it onto your uPVC. After around 10 minutes of contact time, wipe it away with a micro-fibre cloth to leave a glossy finish that will sparkle.
If you are cleaning your window frames or doors for the first time in a while, you might need a helping hand. The Shark Floor & Handheld Steam Cleaner S6005UK has a detachable unit, which means you can apply super-heated steam directly to all your doors and windows. A direct steam nozzle attachment and a hard-brush tool can help you to perform some detailed cleaning where there are significant accumulations to deal with. And because the optimum amount of steam is applied, you won’t need to wipe dry your uPVC after cleaning.
THINGS TO AVOID WHEN CLEANING uPVC WINDOWS AND DOORS
Unfortunately, many homeowners have discovered that damage to uPVC is often irreversible. While this durable substance requires minimal maintenance, it can’t be filled, varnished or sealed in the way wood can, so care is need during the cleaning process. There are some relatively common mistakes you need to avoid in order to preserve the integrity of your doors and windows.
- If you feel you need to use cleaning agents on your uPVC, make sure you’re using those that have been specifically formulated for the job. Some abrasive cleaning agents can remove the glossy coat from uPVC permanently.
- Never try to cover up discolouration or accumulations of mildew and dirt with paint.
- Always make sure you clean your windows with a sponge or micro-fibre cleaning pad. It is relatively easy to scratch uPVC, and it can’t be painted over or filled like wood can.
Under no circumstances should the following cleaning tools and chemicals be used:
- Scouring pads
- Iron wool
- WD40
- Nail varnish remover
- Methylated spirits
- White spirits
- Bleach
If you’re looking for a low-tech way to clean your uPVC, mix a solution of washing up liquid and water, and clean your windows with an old tea towel or dish cloth. In most cases, just perseverance and hard work is all that is needed to bring a shine back to your uPVC. Using waxes, sprays and chemicals not designed for the job can cause irreparable damage.
The trick to keeping your uPVC frames and doors looking their best is continual maintenance and cleaning. With a few simple tools, and a Shark steam mop, cleaning uPVC is an exceptionally quick and easy process.