Care & Maintenance
To maintain the appeal of your aluminium doors and windows, regular care, maintenance, and cleaning must be performed throughout the construction process and afterward.
During Construction.
Protect surfaces during building construction to prevent damage. Cement-based products, welding spatter, and other debris can harm surface finishes, so it’s crucial to keep the aluminium joinery covered until construction is complete. After construction, clean any debris or dust from inside sills to ensure drainage holes remain unblocked—this is particularly important for doorways that were frequently used during the build.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance.
Cleaning your aluminium doors and windows every three months is recommended. In coastal, marine, or industrial environments, more frequent cleaning will be required. Use a soft brush with mild liquid detergent in warm water, and rinse with fresh water. Avoid using abrasive steel wool, scrapers, scouring liquids, or aggressive solvents and thinners, as these can damage the surface finish.
The cleaning process should include the removal of any build-up in door tracks to maintain proper drainage.
If through some misadventure powdercoated aluminium joinery is scratched or damaged, Dulux repair kits are available for most colours. Spray cans are ideal for larger scuffs, while dabsticks work best for small scratches or chips. For weathered areas, Dulux Gloss Up, a light-to-medium cutting cream, is available to restore gloss finishes.
Hardware Care.
Regular maintenance of aluminium door and window hardware is essential. Powdercoated hardware should be cleaned with a wet sponge or soft brush, warm water, and mild detergent, followed by rinsing with fresh water. For plated hardware, avoid using detergent, as it may damage the finish—clean with just a wet sponge.
Stainless steel hardware requires regular cleaning to prevent rust spots. Even the highest grades of stainless steel can rust, which can be treated with a mildly abrasive cleaner and rinsed thoroughly with fresh water. For heavy corrosion, a Scotch-Brite™ hand pad or specialised 3M® Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish can be used.
Glass Care.
Glass is a delicate material that can be easily scratched or damaged. Only use cleaning solutions specifically designed for glass. Start by soaking the glass to loosen dirt, then apply a mild, non-abrasive cleaner uniformly across the surface. Be sure to rinse with fresh water to remove all residues, as cleaning solutions left behind can permanently mark the glass.
You can find more details on caring for your aluminium joinery and glazing in our Care & Maintenance for your Windows & Doors booklet. For recommended cleaning products and solutions, please refer to the Guide to Cleaning Aluminium Products.
