Care of fittings
The hardware located in the inner groove of the sash is the main mechanism of the window. She is responsible for the functionality, tightness and smoothness of the sash. If the fittings are not cleaned or lubricated for a long time, the sash control may become difficult, and the mechanisms will wear out quickly from strong friction.
In spring and autumn, the metal parts of the window structure should be wiped off dust and old grease with a dry cloth and a new one should be applied. The composition is dripped only on the moving parts of the mechanism: pins, latches, hinges. The fittings have special slots for this. In order for the lubricant to be well distributed, the sash must be opened and closed several times, then the excess composition must be removed with a cloth.
Areas of the machine to be lubricated.
Sash adjustment is necessary in case of sagging and for preventive purposes: before the start of the summer and winter seasons. If the sash hits the frame, a window hex is required. The fittings regulate the position of the sash in several planes: from above and below, vertically and horizontally, to the clamp. To determine exactly where the sash does not fit well, you need a piece of paper, it is placed between the sash and the frame and the sash is closed. With good pressure, the sheet will be motionless when you try to pull it out. In the place where the paper is easily released, the adhesion is insufficient.
Adjusting the position of the sash relative to the frame.
Switching to winter (in October-November) and summer (in March-April) mode is necessary to compensate for the temperature expansion. In summer, the plastic heats up and expands, so the clamp should be less dense than in winter. Switching the mode prolongs the service life of the fittings and sealing rubber, and prevents the deformation of the profile.
Adjustment of the pressure for winter and summer mode.
If the fastenings on the handle are loosened, you need to pry off and turn 90 ° the decorative strip on the outlet, usually there is a special recess on it. Then tighten the fasteners. Do not tighten too much, as the base of the handle may burst. A damaged window handle can be replaced in the same way.
Repair and replacement of the handle on the PVC window.
Why do you need to regulate
There are several reasons why a person has to independently adjust plastic windows.
Incorrect setup during installation
The main reason for manual adjustment of PVC window products is incorrect adjustment when they are embedded in the opening. Often, when installing such structures, a pre-developed scheme is used that helps to insert the window correctly. However, some people do not use it, and because of this, windows are often installed incorrectly.
> If mistakes were made during the installation of the structure, the window hinges will not be in the correct position. This leads to the fact that the flaps begin to close worse. Sometimes even manual adjustment of the frame does not help to eliminate the problem, and you have to dismantle the structure in order to then install it correctly in compliance with all the rules for embedding PVC window frames.
Natural wear of the seal
It is no secret that the window opening must be well sealed, especially in winter, when frosts come. Special seals made of durable rubber are responsible for sealing the structure. Also, such rubberized gaskets contain moisture, do not allow dust to enter the room and are responsible for sound insulation. Therefore, all expensive plastic structures are equipped with rubber gaskets.
However, even high-quality seals fail over time. This is facilitated by the following factors:
- improper care of rubber gaskets;
- the use of low-quality rubber in the manufacture of the seal;
- damage to the gasket.
If the seal wears out, you will have to adjust the PVC window products.
Inaccurate and rough closing of the sashes
It is known that plastic windows should be used carefully so as not to damage them. However, some people use them inaccurately and close the flaps roughly.
Such rough handling has a negative effect on the tightness of the window frame closure. Most often, this results in slight or severe sagging of the valves.
It is known that all flaps are held on the lower hinge. If the window structure is not equipped with a special blocker, then in the ventilation mode, you can accidentally move the handle incorrectly, and the sash will sag. If such a problem appears, you must immediately adjust the window and install the sash in place. If this is not done, the lower eyelet will come off the fasteners and a new fastening loop will have to be installed.
Shrinkage of the window structure
Some owners of a plastic window over time notice that it has sagged a lot. There are several reasons that lead to shrinkage of the window frame:
- Careless installation of spacer plates. Metal gaskets are installed around the perimeter under the glass unit. If placed incorrectly, the structure can sag under the pressure of the metal plates.
- Shrinkage of the building. A common cause of sagging and damage to installed reinforced-plastic frames. If the shrinkage is insignificant, the windows sag by a few millimeters.
- Large gap between the window opening and the frame. When the window does not fit snugly against the window frame, it begins to shrink.
Wear of parts of the swing-out mechanism
If the window sags, it means that some of the parts related to the rotary mechanism have worn out. So that they do not wear out for a long time, you must adhere to the following recommendations:
- Regular lubrication. All moving parts of the windows must be lubricated periodically. The first lubrication is carried out when an unpleasant creak appears when opening or closing the structure. When lubricating such products, it is better to use special oil formulations used for lubricating sewing machines. It is enough to apply 2-3 drops of oil to the moving parts so that they stop creaking.
- The window mode must be changed. It is impossible for the structure to be in one position for a long time. Therefore, you will periodically have to alternate the window opening modes.
Adjustment
In addition to cleaning all parts and carrying out lubrication, it is necessary to adjust the mechanisms.
Why do you need to regulate
The adjustment is carried out in order to reduce the noise level that comes in from the street, as well as to keep the heat in the room. With sharp temperature fluctuations, the profile changes its properties:
- When sunlight hits the profile on hot days, it begins to expand. As a result, the friction of the flaps increases.
- In winter, on the contrary, the profile narrows. As a result, the sash is pressed slightly, and cold air easily penetrates into the apartment.
How often adjustment is needed
It is advisable to regulate windows in autumn and spring. Seasonal adjustment involves the transfer of mechanisms to a certain position. Change and regulate the mode of pressing the flaps to the profile. In addition to seasonal adjustment, work is carried out as needed.
For the winter
Before the winter cold, tighten the clamps of each sash. As a result, when the window is closed, the sash will be tightly pressed against the profile.
Plastic balcony door
When adjusting a plastic door, you yourself need to take into account the problem that has arisen, for example, the sash is not pressed well or sagging is observed:
- The easiest is to adjust the door handles. The cap under the handle is turned to a horizontal position and the screws are tightened.
- Adjustment of the door hold-down is carried out most often seasonally.For the summer, the clamps are loosened, and for the winter, on the contrary, they are tightened.
- If there is a problem with the movement of the sash relative to the door frame, then adjust the bolts in the hinges.
How to properly handle mechanisms on your own: locks, hinges, seals, fittings?
Lubrication of windows does not take much time, this is a simple procedure and every owner can handle it. Subject to all the rules, instructions and tips, the windows will perform their functions with high quality for a long time.
Step-by-step instruction:
- Open the window sash to the desired position so that all the mechanisms necessary for maintenance are easily accessible.
- If large contaminated particles are present, wipe them off with a damp cloth or vacuum them.
- You also need to clean the fittings from the old oil with a brush and wipe everything dry with a napkin.
- The open sash and window frame are washed with warm water and soap diluted in it. After washing, you need to leave the window to dry.
- Do not rush, because when cleaning, you can push dirt into hard-to-reach places and inside the profile.
- When using liquid oil, you need to drip a few drops on all fittings - handles, brackets, hinges, locks. In order for the lubricant to be distributed throughout the mechanism, you need to switch the sash to the closed position and vice versa. Do this several times in all window modes to get better blurring.
- When using a spray, application to the fittings should be done at a distance of 3-5 cm from the object to be treated. The optimal dose will be to hold down the spray valve for 2 seconds. The product is colorless, so it practically does not leave marks and stains.
- Before treating the seal with a lubricant, you must also wash it with soapy water and dry it. In order for the rubber seal to remain elastic and retain its water-repellent properties, it must be treated with silicone, glycerin or machine oil after cleaning.
Healthy
The lubrication procedure is recommended to be performed in late autumn and early spring.
After completing all stages of cleaning and lubrication, it is necessary to wash the window and sash to remove any residual lubricant. Now all the elements are clean, well lubricated and do not creak. A tidied up window will be able to serve for a long time, keeping warm and cozy in the house.
An important question - how often do you need to lubricate the window? If the living environment is rather polluted and you often have to open the window, then you need to clean and lubricate it 2-3 times a year. In other, cleaner environments, it may be sufficient to do this once a year.
Now everything is oiled and the window is ready to serve us in the next season.
But it happens that for a very long time there was no cleaning and lubrication, and after service there were problems with opening the window and the tightness of the rubber seal to the frame.
In this case, it is necessary to perform additional adjustment of the window mechanisms - to increase the pressure and adjust the height of the sash.
Strengthening the clamp
The window needs to be adjusted to fit snugly against the frame. Turn the adjusting screw to the left using a hexagon so that you can press the window more tightly to the frame. If you need to loosen the clamp, turn it in the opposite direction.
It will not be possible to accurately adjust the pressure at one time, therefore, after each turn of the hexagon, you need to close the sash and evaluate the degree of pressure. Several of these adjustments will allow you to find the desired position. As a result, the window will sit tight and stop letting in air.
Sash height adjustment
In different cases, the frame may sag or, vice versa, stretch out. Even a few millimeters of deviation makes it difficult to open / close the sash.
To adjust, you need a hexagon that matches the size of the screw. Turning the screw with a wrench counterclockwise will raise the sash, clockwise will lower it.It is necessary to turn the screw in one direction or the other until the sash begins to open and close freely.
In order for the lubrication work to give the highest quality results, you can use some tips:
- Without experience and the necessary funds, it is better to refrain from work.
- Carry out all work in warm weather.
- Do not skimp on the quality of the lubricant. The duration of the window's service depends on it.
- In case of serious breakdowns, it is better to use the services of a professional master, and not try to make repairs on your own.
Rules for the operation of windows
It is important not only to clean plastic windows correctly, you also need to follow some tips for taking care of them in daily use. One of the most important rules is the following: if the window is under warranty, in no case should you repair aluminum structures yourself, as well as disassemble the window
Misting and how to deal with it
Usually, small droplets of liquid can accumulate on the windows because the temperature in the room is very different from the temperature outside. If the temperature of the inner glass is noticeably lowered, and the humidity in the room, on the contrary, is increased, then the window is likely to fog up. To avoid this, you need to establish ventilation of the room. You can help the inner glass to warm up by removing the battery cover so that warm air can flow towards the window.
However, the appearance of condensation may indicate the presence of a defect in the window or errors in its installation.
Prevention Tips
The best way to prevent damage to the structure is to maintain normal humidity in the room. It should not exceed 50 percent. As well as compliance with ventilation conditions. If the window is installed perfectly sealed, this will definitely lead to an increase in air humidity. Avoiding this will help to regularly ventilate the room about two or three times a day.
Only professionals with special training should install plastic windows. Care and operation must comply with the rules, be careful, then the double-glazed windows will serve for a long time and reliably protect the room from extraneous sounds, dust and dirt.
Why do you need it?
It must be remembered that a well-oiled window will save you from serious problems and help to avoid breakage. At first, the window begins to creak, emit clicks, and over time, it will stop closing normally at all.
If you do not pay attention to this for a long time, as a result, it will break down and expensive repairs may be required.
In the process of operation, the factory lubricant becomes obsolete. If you do not lubricate the window mechanisms, moving metal parts will rub against each other and grind off. In addition, corrosion can develop on the metal over time. In addition, street dust, together with the formed metal, will prevent the window from closing normally: the handles will walk tight, the window will not close tightly, which will lead to a draft and heat loss in the room.
Important
In addition to the moving parts of the window, it is also worth paying attention to the sealant. This is another element that protects against dust, cold and noise. With regular care, it will remain flexible and efficiently cope with its tasks.
With regular care, it will remain flexible and efficiently cope with its tasks.
It is likely that the installed model may have been discontinued long ago and is outdated. In the event of a breakdown, it will be difficult to find the required replacement part. The whole mechanism will have to be replaced, and this can cost a lot of money. This is another argument in favor of regular window lubrication.
How can you lubricate the fittings of metal-plastic windows
Window fittings are a rather complex set of mechanisms that provide opening and closing of the window in different modes, pressing the sash to the frame along the entire perimeter, adjustable ventilation, etc. And in order for this complex to function properly, it should be looked after.
In the manufacture of a plastic window, the hardware is installed in factory grease, which ensures its smooth operation. But after a while, the restoration of the lubricating layer is required - so any window owner should figure out how to lubricate metal-plastic windows and how to do it correctly.
Purpose of grease
It is imperative to lubricate the fittings of plastic windows. There are several reasons for this:
The most obvious: the lubricant makes it easier to open and close the window by reducing friction between the individual hardware components. If the mechanism is provided with proper care, the handle will turn without any effort.
Reducing friction also reduces wear on the mechanism. So a regularly oiled window will last much longer.
Applying oil to metal parts reduces the risk of corrosion. This increases the service life of the protective coating, which is applied to the fittings during their manufacture.
These arguments are quite enough to make a decision on regular maintenance of PVC windows.
How to lubricate fittings?
Effective care of metal-plastic window fittings involves the use of products that are most suitable for this purpose. Therefore, before you lubricate the window fittings, you need to choose the optimal lubricant.
PVC window fittings can be lubricated with the following compounds:
Note!
Special products that are included in the window care kit. These lubricants are designed specifically for work with fittings, and therefore do not adversely affect the protective coating.
Silicone Lubricants - Either Tubes or Sprays
The composition of such lubricants is practically the same as those described in the previous paragraph.
Standard sewing machine or bicycle lubricants. They differ from ordinary machine oils in better cleaning, therefore they can also be used for processing window fittings.
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What can not be lubricated?
- Vegetable oils - after drying, they form a dense layer, which, when mixed with dust, will turn into an abrasive material.
- Aggressive agents with acids and alkalis - they destroy the protective coating of the fittings.
- Compositions based on kerosene.
- Certain automotive and gun oils.
The use of these materials is not only undesirable - it directly harms the fittings and can provoke its premature failure.
How is lubrication performed?
Learning how to properly lubricate window fittings is quite simple - this task does not take much time and does not require the use of complex equipment. At the same time, timely (albeit unprofessional) care will significantly extend the life of the window.
You need to act in the following sequence:
- We wipe the fittings first with a damp and then with a dry cloth.
- Apply 1-2 drops of grease on the rollers of the locking pins.
- We also apply a few drops into the holes marked with pictograms with the image of an oil can.
- Remove the plastic pads from the hinges. Apply a few drops of the lubricant to the hinges.
- In order for the lubricant to be distributed over the metal, we open and close the window several times.
- We remove excess grease from the profile, and then put the plastic pads in place.
It is advisable to perform the first processing according to this algorithm no later than a year after the installation of the windows - just for this time the factory lubricant is enough. Therefore, we take care of the fittings every six months.
A few words about seals
In addition to lubricating the fittings, it is advisable to take care of the seals.Polymer inserts, which provide a tight hold, lose their elasticity over time - and therefore, once every six months, they should be treated with either a special lubricant or formulations based on vaseline oil:
It is important!
Before processing, the seal is cleaned of dust.
The grease is applied in a thin layer and spreads along the contour.
Excess grease is removed.
As you can see, the lubrication of window fittings and seals is a fairly easy undertaking. But for full-fledged care, it is still worth contacting professionals: the specialists of the Sweep company, called by you, will not only lubricate all the mechanisms, but also provide diagnostics of all window assemblies, and if necessary, they will carry out high-quality preventive maintenance of the structure!
Cleaning rules for double-glazed windows
To take care of plastic windows and window sills with your own hands to be the most effective, you need to take into account a few simple rules.
Maintain the cleanliness of double-glazed windows constantly, otherwise it will be very difficult to wash them later.
Do not forget about the condition of the adjacent elements: handles, frames, rubber elements and window sills.
There are several rules for using structures that are important to follow so that they serve for a long time and do not break.
Glass washing
Such designs are unpretentious and do not need any special washing rules. You can use the usual detergents for cleaning double-glazed windows, which are sold in the store. It is only better to buy products that do not contain acids and other aggressive substances, because they can damage glass units or fittings.
To take care of plastic windows in winter and summer to be effective, they must be washed, cleaned from dust, dried. It is best to use cotton or rayon napkins for washing. The structure of these materials is such that it does not damage the glass surface, does not leave scratches and, thus, does not spoil the appearance and functionality of the windows. You can also use alkaline products to avoid unwanted stains or other effects.
Too much rubbing the glass, the attached frames or handles is not worth it, as well as using hot water. Otherwise, washing such a window is no different from washing a wooden one.
So, you will need the following materials:
- cotton fabric;
- viscose napkin;
- special liquid for washing glasses;
- rubber gloves;
- cool water and a container for it.
Cleaning fittings and rubber seals
Rubber seals are an interlayer between the sash and the frame, which serves as a barrier to the penetration of noise and dirt from the street into the apartment. Each plastic window has such a device. Maintenance of rubber seals improves ventilation of the room.
Such rubber is made from reliable and high-tech polymers. But it is still subject to aging and fading, loss of original properties.
Therefore, it is important not to forget to clean it in time, remove dirt with a rag. Then the service life of the entire structure, as well as its functionality to protect the room from drafts and dust, will noticeably increase.
As a rule, modern double-glazed windows are equipped with high-quality fittings that practically do not require maintenance. But so that its appearance does not deteriorate, it is worth following some rules. For example, moving parts should be lubricated once every 2-3 years. They can be lubricated with industrial petroleum jelly or machine oil. If the handle is loose, you can tighten the bolts with a screwdriver. They are located under a retractable decorative plate.
In the lower part of the frame there is a hollow - a drainage channel. It also needs to be cleaned from time to time to remove dirt. Typically, it is more likely than other parts of the window to accumulate heavy residues from vehicle exhaust. Drainage holes on the side of the hollow drain the accumulated moisture outside. Therefore, in no case should we forget about them.If they become clogged, the accumulated liquid will not be able to flow out.
The mosquito net, if any, should be rinsed with running water as it becomes dirty with dust, and then, after drying, put in place. For the winter, it is best to clean and store it in a room that can be ventilated (mezzanines and pantries will not work).
Washing in the winter season
In big cities, where there are a lot of cars and, accordingly, dust, glass can get dirty more often and require maintenance even in winter. But in the cold season, there are a number of difficulties, such as depressurization and difficult weather conditions, when the liquid for washing the glass unit turns into ice.
Cleaning a double-glazed window in winter is possible. The first thing to do is get rid of the ice and frost adhering to the glass. A water-based saline solution is suitable for this. Just don't wet the napkin too much, otherwise it will freeze. And also do not forget to constantly wipe the surface from excess moisture.
First you need to wash the frame with saline solution, then the glass. Automotive glass cleaners that are designed for use in subzero temperatures are perfect
After washing, it is important to dry everything thoroughly. Especially drainage holes
The water for washing must be cold, otherwise the glass may crack due to the temperature difference. To keep your hands warm, you can use ordinary warm gloves, and put on a slightly larger rubber gloves on top.
The best option would be to postpone washing the window until warming or call the special service. Professionals have more experience and the necessary tools to clean a window without harming it.
How to lubricate a plastic window?
Like car parts, plastic window fittings also need periodic lubrication. Let's see why this is so necessary.
Every day, a large amount of dust and dirt from the street adheres to the factory lubricant of window mechanisms. Closing a window becomes more and more difficult and noisy over time. Of course, problems with closing appear gradually, so many people notice the grinding only at one "perfect" moment.
It is important!
In the absence of lubrication, metal structures rub against each other strongly and parts are ground and worn out. As a result, the window handle turns poorly, and the window itself closes with some effort.
This can happen when a series of accessories is discontinued. The only solution in this situation is the complete replacement of all working mechanisms. Expensive window repairs can be avoided only by timely lubrication of parts and maintenance of the window structure.
Another unpleasant moment may be the lack of a certain series of accessories on sale. This can happen when a series of accessories are discontinued. The only solution in this situation is the complete replacement of all working mechanisms. Expensive window repairs can be avoided only by timely lubrication of parts and maintenance of the window structure.
Do not be scared and think that your windows were of poor quality. The warranty for window fittings is 3-5 years, factory lubricant, respectively, lasts the same. Employees of many companies, when installing windows, warn customers that window structures must be regularly lubricated. Those who do not take care of their customers poorly.
How can you lubricate window fittings
If you think that any existing oil is suitable for the lubrication of PVC window fittings, you are deeply mistaken. In no case should you lubricate windows with vegetable and butter, margarine, petroleum jelly, shoe gel, and other household substances.For the care of the fittings, you can use ordinary technical oil, which is used for lubricating bicycles and cars. Synthetic and mineral motor oil can be used. Although it is worth remembering that mineral oil tends to thicken strongly at low air temperatures.
REHAU window care set As a rule, the kit includes 3 products:
- cleaning agent for plastic profiles,
- silicone seal care agent,
- grease for fittings.
Ask for window care kits at sales offices.
Where to lubricate plastic window fittings
All moving parts of the PVC window must be lubricated. Before lubricating, all metal parts must be cleaned of dirt. A cotton cloth or rayon cloth is great for a cleaning cloth. Open the window, carefully inspect the sash, clean it from dirt and begin to generously lubricate all the moving elements that the window fittings have.
Spray oil should be sprayed approximately five centimeters from the moving parts of the window. If you do not have a can, but ordinary technical oil, which is used to lubricate bicycles and cars, it will be enough to drop 1-2 drops on each movable part of the fittings.
If the windows do not get dirty very often, the fittings can be relubricated once a year. In the presence of frequent contamination, it is necessary to clean and lubricate more often - 2-3 times a year. Do not neglect this recommendation if you want your windows to serve you as long as possible.