Aluminium windows are popular for their sleek profiles, energy efficiency, and long-term durability, but even the highest-quality frames need regular maintenance to retain performance and protect your investment. Without the right care, issues like corrosion, discolouration, seal failure, or hardware fatigue can affect both aesthetics and functionality.

In coastal areas, especially salt-laden air can accelerate wear through a process known as tea-staining. Elsewhere, condensation, dirt, or neglected weep holes can shorten the life of your windows or even impact your building’s energy performance.

At Evesham Trade Centre, we help homeowners and facilities managers keep their aluminium frames in top condition, with expert advice, tailored maintenance kits, and finish-friendly solutions.

Understanding Materials & Common Problems

Modern aluminium windows are either anodised or powder-coated. Both finishes are designed to be durable and weather-resistant, but they are not immune to cosmetic damage, especially when incorrect cleaning products or methods are used.

In coastal and marine-influenced environments, tea-staining is one of the most common challenges. Despite the robust surface finishes, salt deposits can cling to lower frame sections and joints, causing brownish discolouration. This can occur up to 5 km inland and is especially common near coastlines and estuaries. The best defence is frequent rinsing with clean water, supported by a regular seasonal routine.

Condensation is another concern, particularly in colder months. While modern aluminium systems include thermal breaks to reduce heat transfer, poor ventilation, blocked drainage, or deteriorated gaskets can all contribute to moisture collecting at the base of frames or inside the window reveal. Left unchecked, this can affect seals, internal trims, or even frame fixings over time.

Choosing Cleaning Products: Do’s & Don’ts

Effective aluminium window care starts with using the right cleaning agents.

Always opt for warm water mixed with a pH-neutral detergent (between 6 and 8 on the pH scale). Apply using a soft microfibre cloth or natural-bristle brush to gently loosen dirt from corners, joints, and sills. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, then dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spotting or mineral deposits.

Avoid anything abrasive; this includes steel wool, harsh scouring pads, or products containing bleach, alcohol, esters, or ketones. These can permanently damage protective finishes and void your warranty.

For stubborn marks or mild oxidation, a 1:1 mix of white vinegar and water may help. For more intensive cleaning, use a specialist aluminium-safe cleaner. In extreme cases, very gentle sanding with fine grit paper may be necessary, but only with care and full knowledge of the frame’s finish.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

A structured routine ensures your aluminium windows stay clean, efficient, and visually appealing all year round. Use the following checklist as a guide:

Spring:

• Conduct a full clean using mild detergent and water.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove winter residue.
• Inspect and clear all weep holes to allow proper drainage.
• Check gaskets and seals for shrinkage, cracking, or wear.

Summer:

• Increase cleaning frequency in coastal or high-pollution areas.
• Look for panel edge staining from heat or salt exposure.
• Assess the finish for fading or powdering on sun-facing elevations.

Autumn:

• Clear leaf debris from sills and drainage paths.
• Lubricate hinges, espagnolette locks, and sliding tracks.
• Inspect mechanical components for wear or resistance.

Winter:

• Check areas prone to condensation or cold bridging.
• Inspect the thermal break for visible cracks or moisture ingress.
• Wipe down frames and ensure hardware is operational in cold conditions.

Frequency:

• Coastal or industrial zones: Monthly to every 3 months.
• Urban or rural areas: Every 6 to 18 months, depending on exposure.

Key Maintenance Tasks Explained

Beyond simple cleaning, several specific actions will help prolong the life of your aluminium frames.

Corrosion Prevention: Ensure grooves, corners, and water traps are cleaned thoroughly. Rinse frames after storm events to remove airborne contaminants. Ensure drainage holes and frame joints are kept clear to prevent water retention.

Lubrication: Hinges, espagnolette mechanisms, and locks benefit from annual lubrication using silicone-based spray or light machine oil. Apply sparingly and wipe away excess to avoid build-up that may attract dirt.

Seal & Gasket Checks: Damaged or aged seals can lead to draughts, increased energy bills, and frame deterioration. Replace failing gaskets early and confirm compression remains effective around the entire perimeter.

Dealing with Corrosion: For light surface corrosion, clean the area gently. Use an aluminium-compatible polish or protective wax to restore sheen. If deeper pitting occurs, professional assessment may be required to determine structural integrity.

Condensation, Thermal Breaks & Seal Care

Aluminium windows with modern thermal breaks are designed to reduce energy loss, but they still rely on consistent internal conditions to perform well. When warm, humid indoor air meets the cold outer frame, condensation can form.

Control measures include using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms, maintaining consistent indoor temperatures, and checking that frames are sealed correctly. Blocked or damaged seals and cracked thermal breaks can worsen condensation and lead to long-term issues like mould, paint damage, or corrosion of internal fixings.

If you notice recurring condensation around the base of your windows, inspect the thermal break for cracks or separation. If found, refinishing or replacing the affected components should be prioritised.

Warranty-Friendly Routine Tips

Preserving your warranty starts with following manufacturer-approved cleaning guidelines.

Always:

• Use only pH-neutral or approved detergents.
• Avoid solvents or abrasive materials.
• Keep a record of your maintenance activities, including dates, photos, and products used.

Evesham Trade Centre offers a range of products compatible with leading aluminium window brands, including approved cleaners, sealants, and lubricants, so you can maintain your windows confidently without risking your warranty.

When to Call a Specialist

Some issues go beyond standard maintenance and require professional support.

Call a specialist if you notice:

• Persistent or advanced tea-staining.
• Deep corrosion or bubbling in the finish.
• Failed seals or condensation between double-glazed panes.
• Sticking, seized, or broken hardware.

Prompt intervention can often repair damage before replacement becomes necessary, reducing long-term costs and preserving the integrity of the installation.

How Evesham Trade Centre Can Support

Evesham Trade Centre’s Aluminium Window Care Solutions

At Evesham Trade Centre, we help you protect your investment in aluminium windows with hands-on support, expert maintenance products, and seasonal service options designed to extend performance and preserve warranties.

We stock pH-neutral cleaning solutions, aluminium-safe sealants, lubricants for moving parts, and protective coatings to keep frames in top condition. Our maintenance kits are curated to suit both residential and commercial settings.

For those seeking more than products, we also offer inspection and care services, including:

• On-site diagnostics for hardware or corrosion issues.
• Seal and gasket replacement.
• Scheduled seasonal maintenance.
• In-house training for facilities teams and caretakers.

On a recent commercial project in the Cotswolds, our team supported a school estate manager facing widespread tea-staining and seal failure across south-facing windows. With the right combination of cleaning products, seal replacement, and tailored maintenance routines, the site was restored to full performance within weeks, without costly frame replacements.

Conclusion

Aluminium windows are a smart, stylish, and long-lasting investment, but like all quality building products, they rely on regular care.

By following a seasonal maintenance routine and using the right cleaning and protection methods, you can extend the lifespan of your windows, preserve their finish, and avoid costly repairs.

For expert advice, trusted products, and ongoing support, speak to Evesham Trade Centre. We’re here to help you keep your windows performing and looking their best, season after season.