How do you clean secondary glazing?

Clean secondary glazing with a soft cloth and mild soapy water or standard glass cleaner. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Clean the tracks and seals regularly to maintain smooth operation.

How often should secondary glazing be maintained?

Secondary glazing requires minimal maintenance. Clean the glass and frames quarterly, lubricate tracks and hinges annually, and check seals every 6-12 months. Professional servicing is recommended every 3-5 years.

Can secondary glazing glass be replaced if damaged?

Yes, individual glass panels in secondary glazing can be easily replaced without removing the entire frame. This is one of the advantages of the system — replacement glass is straightforward and cost-effective.

How long do secondary glazing seals last?

High-quality secondary glazing seals typically last 10-15 years before needing replacement. Regular cleaning and avoiding harsh chemicals helps extend seal life. Replacement seals are inexpensive and easy to fit.

Secondary Glazing Maintenance & Care Guide

Good News: Minimal Maintenance Required

Secondary glazing is designed to be virtually maintenance-free. Unlike timber windows that need regular repainting, powder-coated aluminium frames require only occasional cleaning to stay looking their best.

Cleaning the Glass

✓ Do

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth or microfibre
• Use warm water with mild washing-up liquid
• Use a squeegee for streak-free finish
• Clean from top to bottom
• Clean both sides of secondary glazing panels

✗ Don't

• Use abrasive cleaners or scourers
• Use newspaper (can leave residue)
• Use ammonia-based cleaners on frames
• Clean in direct strong sunlight (causes streaks)
• Use pressure washers

Cleaning Between the Panes

The space between your original window and secondary glazing should stay clean due to the sealing, but occasional dust may accumulate.

For sliding panels: Slide to one side to access and clean the inner face of the original window
For hinged panels: Open fully for easy access to both surfaces
For lift-out panels: Remove the panel carefully (two-person job for large panels)

Cleaning the Frames

Powder-coated aluminium frames are extremely durable and resistant to corrosion. Regular cleaning will keep them looking new.

Recommended Cleaning Method

1.Wipe frames with a damp soft cloth to remove loose dust
2.Mix warm water with a small amount of mild soap or washing-up liquid
3.Wipe down all frame surfaces with the solution
4.Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Never use solvents, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on powder-coated frames as they can damage the finish. Avoid ammonia-based products.

Maintaining Moving Parts

Sliding Panels

Vacuum tracks: Remove dust and debris from sliding tracks regularly
Lubricate: Apply a light silicone spray to tracks once a year (not WD-40)
Check rollers: Ensure smooth operation - stiff movement may indicate worn rollers

Hinged & Casement Panels

Lubricate hinges: Apply light oil to hinge points annually
Check locks: Ensure locks and stays engage properly
Adjust stays: Tighten if panels don't stay open at desired position

Seals & Gaskets

Inspect regularly: Check seals around the perimeter for damage or gaps
Clean gently: Wipe seals with damp cloth - dirt can affect sealing
Replace if needed: Worn or damaged seals can be replaced without changing the whole unit

Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Frequency	Task
Monthly	Wipe down glass with damp cloth; quick visual check
Quarterly	Thorough clean of glass and frames; check seals; clean tracks
Annually	Lubricate all moving parts; deep clean between panes; inspect hardware
Every 2-3 years	Professional service and inspection (optional but recommended)

Common Issues & Solutions

Condensation between panes

Cause: Seal failure allowing moist air between panes
Solution: Check seals for gaps. Minor condensation on cold days is normal; persistent condensation needs professional attention.

Stiff or sticky sliding panels

Cause: Dirt in tracks or worn rollers
Solution: Clean tracks thoroughly and apply silicone lubricant. If problem persists, rollers may need replacement.

Draughts around panel edges

Cause: Worn brush seals or gaskets
Solution: Inspect seals for wear. These can usually be replaced easily and inexpensively.

Lock not engaging properly

Cause: Misalignment or worn mechanism
Solution: Check if frame has moved. Minor adjustments can often be made with a screwdriver. For persistent issues, contact us.