Use and Care Manual

5
Care and Maintenance
Vinyl Windows and Patio Doors
HARDWARE CLEANING AND LUBRICATION
HARDWARE CLEANING
Maintain hardware any time windows are not opening or closing
properly or at least biannually (monthly for coastal areas) for the
following:
• Clean dirt/debris
• Tighten loose screws
• Replace damaged hardware
PRECAUTIONS
The following substances may damage protective hardware
nishes. Do not use:
• Vinegar-based cleaners
• Citrus-based cleaners (lemon, etc.)
• Paint removers
• Window cleaners
• Brick/siding washes
• Any other industrial or abrasive cleaners
Use caution with silicone-based sprays. Apply only in small
amounts and do not overspray. Wipe off excess lubricant to avoid
staining and/or damage to other window or patio door parts.
Silicone may cause some hard plastic parts to become brittle.
HARDWARE TYPES
Metal hardware offers functionality, aesthetic appeal and
resistance to corrosion but is not totally corrosion proof. Replace
corroded hardware.
Plastic hardware offers high resistance to the elements; however,
over time, can deteriorate from ultraviolet light, heat, cold, and
chemical exposure.
General Cleaning
1. Remove hardware for easier cleaning.
2. Use mild soap and water on a soft cloth or sponge; rinse and
wipe dry.
Note! For stubborn dirt, use a soft bristle brush to gently
scrub.
3. Apply several coats of high quality, non-abrasive car wax.
4. Reinstall hardware.
Heavy Cleaning
Solvents, abrasives, and other cleaners could cause damage to
protective coatings on hardware. If the general cleaning procedure
is not sufcient, call us for recommendations.
Cleaning and lubrication help to maintain and restore smooth operation to movable parts of windows and patio doors and, in most cases,
offer corrosion protection. Always thoroughly clean hardware before lubricating.
HARDWARE LUBRICATION
Different hardware parts need different types of lubricants.
Suggested Lubricant Types
White or Lithium Grease:
Protects metal surfaces against corrosion, reduces friction
and wear on moving parts, and is an excellent multi-purpose
lubricant.
Light Oil (such as 3-in-One
®
):
Use for sliding or rotating joints.
Graphite (spray black carbon powder):
Use for door lock key ways and hinges.
Note! Use care when applying graphite to prevent possible
staining of parts.
Spray Silicone:
Use for slider tracks, jamb liners, and weatherstrip.
Note! Do not spray directly onto hardware surfaces. Spray
onto clean cloth to apply.
Plastic Hardware
Most hard plastic hardware parts (e.g. sash retainer latches)
require periodic cleaning for smooth operation and do not require
lubrication.
Butt Hinges
Note! Butt hinges are located on
swinging patio doors and some window
styles. Lubricate hinges with light oil
(3-In-One
®
oil or equivalent) annually or
when noisy.
Slider Tracks and Jamb Liners
Slider tracks or jamb liners can become
dirty and difcult to operate. Clean and
lubricate as follows:
1. Remove sash(es).
2. Vacuum track or wipe with a soft
cloth.
3. Apply spray silicone to dry, soft
cloth. Wipe onto track, jamb liner and/or weatherstrip. Do not
apply silicone to pile (fuzzy) weatherstrip.
4. Reinstall sash(es) and check operation.
Retainer Latch