Glass and window care

Get the most out of your Westeck Windows with proper care and maintenance

Before installing Westeck windows in your home, it is important to keep in mind that exposure to hard water or sea air may result in mineral deposits on the glass and that prolonged exposure may damage the glass surface. Since hard water mineral deposits from any source, including overspray from lawn and garden sprinkler systems, can build up over time and permanently damage the glass, it is highly recommended that you do not expose your glass to repeated contact with any hard water sources. If your Westeck glass is subjected to hard water exposure, it should be promptly dried and cleaned with a cloth to avoid spotting, streaking, or damage.

Cleaning the window

When cleaning your Westeck windows, make sure to use the mildest cleaners possible. Never use solvents, abrasives, or acid-based cleansers on or near the windows, as some chemicals can harm the vinyl and other window components. It is also important to never use hydrochloric or muriatic acid-based cleaners (i.e. brickwash) on or around the windows, because the acids can be very harmful to hardware, reinforcing, and the glass. Using these types of cleaners will also void your window warranty.

Your Westeck glass can easily be cleaned with any common household glass cleaner or mild detergent; however, do not use any petroleum-based cleansers or solvents. We highly recommend using soft, lint-free cloths or paper towels on the glass. When cleaning the glass, it is important to keep in mind that soil deposits may contain abrasive elements and that vigorous wiping or scrubbing may cause scratching or damage to the glass surface. Once the soil has been removed, all soap or cleaning solution should be thoroughly rinsed off the glass. Make sure to also rinse and dry all cleaning solution from the window gaskets, sealants, and frames. On the area where the label was removed from the glass, water may bead up for a time.

• Do not use scrapers or razor blades to remove stubborn deposits or labels.
• Do not use abrasive cleaning solutions such as Ajax® or Comet®.
• Do not allow splashed materials such as paint, stucco, mortar, or drywall putty/Gyproc dust to dry or remain on the window frame, seals, or glass surface.

Cleaning window frames

At Westeck Windows & Doors, we know that keeping your windows clean involves more than just cleaning the glass. That is why we have put together some helpful tips for effectively cleaning vinyl frames and sashes without damaging them.

• Clean window and door frames with a mixture of mild detergent and water.
• Abrasive cleaners or solvents are never recommended because they might cause permanent damage to frame finishes. Mild, non-abrasive soaps are usually safest for most dirt and stain removal.
• Always rinse completely with clear water and wipe dry.
• Ensure drainage holes are always clear of dirt and debris that might obstruct the free flow of water, both inside and outside of the window or door, in the bottom of the frame and sash.

Initial installation

During and after the construction process, it is important to make sure that the windows are properly protected from spills, runoff, and overspray from common building materials. Any installation sealants, paints, and drywall/Gyproc putty or dust should be removed from the windows right away.

Periodic maintenance

Make sure to thoroughly clean hardware and hardware points of contact in casements and awnings, as well as tracks in slider and patio door profiles every six to twelve months. This can be done by spraying a silicone lubricant on hardware points of contact (casements) and inside tracks along the bottom and top of slider and patio door profiles. It is also important to check all drain holes, inside and out, to ensure they are clean and free of any obstructions. Make sure to also check weatherstrips and bulb seals for tears or looseness and to replace/reinsert if found.