How to Clean uPVC Windows

It is important to not use harsh chemicals when cleaning uPVC windows because these chemicals could react with the uPVC and damage the window frames. Also it is vital that you avoid using rough cloths or scouring pads to clean uPVC. If there is a stain the temptation might be to remove the stain with a scouring pad. Avoid this temptation. uPVC scratches easily and what was once a stain will turn into a stain with scratch marks.

If you are unsure about what cleaning product to use on your uPVC window frames then consult your window supplier or an expert. One of the safest and best ways to clean uPVC windows is with a solution of white vinegar and water. Below are instructions for cleaning uPVC windows.

1) Open the windows and vacuum the tracks. Also remove any loose debris and dust.

2) Take a spray bottle and add warm water mixed with white vinegar. Use 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water. Spray the uPVC frames with the solution and leave to sit for 2 minutes.

3) Wipe the uPVC frames with a clean and damp cloth.

4) If you have any scratches to the uPVC frames then apply a PVC gloss using a small paint brush. Remove any excess gloss with a paper towel. Be sure not to get any PVC gloss on the glass. If you do remove with a paper towel.

5) When the PVC gloss is dry, close the windows and spray the glass with a glass cleaner. Dry the glass with a paper towel or old newspaper.

6) Finally, put a mild lubricant and light grease on the opening mechanism.

If you follow these instructions you should continue to have great looking uPVC windows for many years.

Finally, it is worth doing a quick all over check of the uPVC window for any loose parts. If you find any tighten them up. If you follow these instructions just twice a year your uPVC windows will last many years to come.

For quick cleaning baby wipes are recommended because they are gentle and soft.

Comparison between uPVC Windows and Aluminum Frame Windows

In the USA and the UK uPVC or rigid vinyl windows are far more popular than aluminum windows. Whereas, in Japan and other Asian countries the reverse is true: most windows have aluminum frames. So what is the difference between these two types of frame?

Aluminum frames are cheap and easy to install. In Japan a house is normally built with a wooden frame and lightweight walls. Windows are fitted quickly. The house is not expected to last for much more than 60 years. After that time it is demolished and a new house is built on the same plot of land. Aluminum frames suit this style of construction because they are long lasting, light and cheap. Aluminum frames are also weather resistant. Aluminum doesn't rust; instead it just takes on a dull tone from oxidization.

Aluminum windows are superior to uPVC windows in terms of longevity - they last much longer than uPVC, which normally has a life expectancy of about 25 years. However, there are a number of ways in which uPVC or rigid vinyl windows are better.

The first is thermal resistance. Japanese houses are very cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. This is partly because aluminum windows do not provide a good thermal barrier: in the winter they don't keep the heat in the house, and in the summer they don't stop the heat from outside entering the house. Whereas, uPVC windows, especially with double glazing, are good insulators. They prevent heat or cold escaping from a room and stop the heat or cold from outside entering a room. This is called thermal resistance. uPVC's high thermal resistance helps save money on heating and cooling costs. Aluminum's poor thermal resistance makes heating and cooling a house more expensive.

Another important difference between aluminum frame windows and uPVC windows is strength and security. Aluminum is a lightweight and malleable metal. It is very easy to dent and bend aluminum frames. This means they are an easy option for burglars. In contrast, uPVC is stiff, hard and rigid. uPVC is a tough material that is difficult to break or bend. uPVC frames combined with double glazing present a much more formidable challenge to a would-be burglar than aluminum window frames.

The final difference between the two window types is disposal. It is easy to recycle aluminum. For years now many countries have been recycling aluminum cans and covering the costs by selling the recycled metal. On the other hand, it is very difficult to recycle uPVC. uPVC is  a plastic that contains PVC which is  made from petroleum. When burnt PVC gives off dioxins that are health hazards to people. Sadly a lot of uPVC and other PVC products end up in land fills at their end of their lives. These land fill sites frequently are the scenes of fires. Thus, if uPVC windows are not safely disposed of they are a danger to human health and a pollutant.