While our innovative aluminium windows and doors are optimised to reduce the effects of weathering and general wear-and-tear, a regular clean of your frames will help to prevent the occurrence of rust and degradation that may affect their lifespan. At Stegbar, we recommend the following steps to keep your aluminium frames looking picture perfect:

1. Using a soft cloth and a mix of pH-neutral detergent and warm water, wipe down the exterior of the aluminium frame in order to remove environmental grime, grease and contaminants.
2. Paying close attention to all ridges, grooves and hard-to-reach joints, use a smooth non-corrosive brush to gently remove the accumulation of stubborn dirt and grime deposits.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, making sure to wash away any residual detergent or dirt that may remain.
4. Wipe the frame clean from top to bottom with a dry, soft cloth to avoid water spotting

Caution: Do not under any circumstances use solvent-based cleaners and highly abrasive materials on aluminium framed windows and doors.

For windows and doors featuring roller tracks, drain holes and joints, it is important to ensure these areas remain free of debris to ensure better performance and reduce the occurrence of rust. To remove blockages and the build-up of corrosive debris, Stegbar recommends the regular use of a household vacuum or a dry, soft-bristled brush to gently shift grime without damaging the appearance of the aluminium frame itself.

The tracks in which sliding products move, should also be cleaned. To ensure better performance for your window and door tracks, it is recommended that you also vacuum tracks on a regular basis. We recommend that you clean tracks yearly with a light dry lubricant silicone spray.  This will make the sliding action much smoother.   

We recommend cleaning Stainless Steel finishes with warm soapy water or a mild detergent and a soft cloth.  Then rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth to avoid water marks. 

If tea staining (brown discolouration of the surface) does occur, this is not a defect – it will occur naturally in coastal and industrial environments.  Regular cleaning will reduce this issue.  Tea staining can be removed with Ajax, warm water and baking powder – use a toothbrush to clean it with.  Application of CRC Marine 66 or Inox for Marine will reduce this occurrence. 

Clean hardware with a powdercoated and plated finish using warm soapy water or a mild detergent and a soft cloth.  Rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth to avoid water marks.   

The operational life of all window and door hardware is increased if a light machine oil is applied to moving parts, hinges, slides, etc. Powdered graphite should be applied to the keyway in lock barrels, with a squeeze puff applicator. 

The frequency in which you should clean your aluminium windows and doors is dependent upon the location of your home and its exposure to different conditions. As a general rule:

Coastal properties and industrial environments: every 3 months

Regional and metropolitan locations: at least every 12 months

Additionally, aluminium windows and doors in areas that are sheltered or receive low rainfall should be cleaned with greater frequency to prevent the build-up of pollutants that may lead to rust or discolouration.

It is important that you look after your Stegbar products in order to maintain the warranty and also to ensure a lifetime of good looks and functionality.

Here are some further guidelines, information and tips and tricks to help you keep your Stegbar products in tip top condition:

Timber windows and doors

Glass and glazing for windows and doors

Painting, finishing & sealing windows & doors

Hardware care and maintenance for windows and doors

Cleaning insect screens