Aluminium windows are a great choice for any home. Whether you’re looking to create a more modern exterior design or you would like to maintain a more traditional look and feel, aluminium windows add both style and practicality to your home.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about aluminium windows, from their benefits to their simple maintenance requirements.
What are aluminium windows?
Aluminium windows are durable, lightweight and corrosion-resistant making them an excellent window choice for your home.
Benefits of aluminium windows
Aluminium windows have several benefits, such as:
- Slim sightlines – A common attraction to aluminium windows is their slim sightlines that don’t break up or look out of place. Window sightlines are the visible parts of the window frame and the bars that hold the panes together.
- Durable – These types of windows are resilient to corrosion and flexing, contributing to their durability and long lifespan.
- Sustainability – Aluminium windows are 100% recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly window option.
- Energy efficient – These types of windows help keep the heat in your home during the winter as they have insulated frames. This can also help to reduce heating bills by lowering energy consumption.
- Low maintenance – Aluminium windows are easy to clean, making them an ideal choice for any home.
How long do aluminium windows last?
Typically, aluminium windows are designed to last around 15 to 20 years without maintenance. However, when cared for properly through cleaning their lifespan can be extended to around 30 – 40 years.
How to install aluminium windows
There are a few ways you can install aluminium windows, including implementing them in brick walls and steel frames. Two people are also usually needed to complete the installation process to ensure it’s completed safely and efficiently.
Discover more about how to install aluminium windows in our blog.
At Framemaster, you don’t need to worry about installing your own aluminium windows as we’re here to complete the process for you. We pride ourselves on supplying and installing high-quality windows that make your house a home.
How to stop condensation on aluminium window frames
A few ways you can prevent condensation on your aluminium windows include:
- Using a dehumidifier, as this removes moisture from the air that prevents mould growth.
- Opening your windows to allow fresh air in, especially after bathing, showering or cooking.
- Implementing an insulation window film that prevents condensation.
How to clean aluminium window frames
Aluminium windows are often appealing to homeowners due to their minimal maintenance. Typically, you’ll want to clean your aluminium windows around every 3-4 months to prolong their lifespan and keep them looking brand new.
Simply, use a non-abrasive cloth and a mild detergent in warm water, and remove any of the marks from the frames using the cloth. Start by cleaning the top and work your way down to the bottom of the window. Remember to clean hidden spots or hard-to-reach areas, as dirt and debris can often build up over time – which can affect window drainage. You can then use a soft cloth to dry the windows.
What to use to clean aluminium window frames?
When cleaning your aluminium window frames you may want to use:
- A non abrasive cloth.
- A mild detergent.
- Warm soapy water.
How to clean mould off aluminium window frames
When removing mould from aluminium frames there are four methods you could use:
Vinegar and water
White vinegar is a natural, non-toxic way of cleaning mould off windows. However, cleaning vinegar is the best type of vinegar for cleaning mould as it contains 6% acetic acid.
Vinegar and water method:
- Remove dirt or dust from window frames with a cloth.
- Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Spray on the window frame and let it sit for an hour.
- Use a clean non-abrasive cloth or sponge to gently scrub the mould.
- Rinse with water and dry with a non-abrasive cloth.
Mild detergent
While a mild detergent solution cannot kill mould it can remove visible mould.
The mild detergent method involves:
- Mixing two cups of warm water with two tablespoons of detergent (i.e. dish soap.)
- Pour your mixture into a spray bottle.
- Spraying the mixture onto the window frame.
- Wiping off the mixture with a non-abrasive cloth.
Lemon juice and baking soda
This is a great natural solution. Lemons are high in citric acid and contain natural antibacterial properties, while baking soda is an alkaline substance with PH levels higher than most moulds can tolerate. As a result, they form a great cleaning solution.
Lemon juice and baking soda method:
- Mix 120ml of lemon juice and 45g of baking soda to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the mouldy area and scrub it with a cloth or sponge.
- Allow the paste to dry.
- Remove the paste with a wet sponge or cloth.
Water and bleach
Chlorine bleach is often used to kill mould as it’s a potent biocide. It becomes safe to use on aluminium surfaces once diluted with water. You should test your solution on a small part of the window frame that’s not easily visible before applying it to the entire surface.
When mixing bleach it’s important to not mix bleach ammonia-based cleaners.
Water and bleach method:
- Mix no more than one cup of household bleach with 3.7 litres of water (use a ratio of 1:10).
- Apply the solution to the mould.
- Leave it to sit for 15 minutes.
- Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub off the mould.
- Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
How to clean aluminium window tracks
When cleaning aluminium window tracks you should:
- Remove loose debris with a vacuum. You should use a soft brush attachment.
- Apply soapy water or a non-abrasive cleaning solution.
- Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes.
- Scrub the tracks with a soft bristle brush.
- Rinse the tracks.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
Ready to invest in your own aluminium windows? Choose from our extensive selection, including our wide range of Reynears Aluminium Windows. For any queries, get in touch or visit our Solihull showroom today.
