How Cleaning Products Affect Window Parts
Posted in Window Parts, on November 09, 2022
Windows are a long-standing feature of commercial and residential properties. They enhance the aesthetic appeal of space by allowing natural light while improving indoor comfort by enabling occupants to access fresh air. Windows often last between 15 to 30 years. During that time, they get dirty, so you'll likely use commercial products to clean them. In some cases, harsh products can cause trouble with awning and casement window parts. If your window parts have been damaged by cleaning products, upgrade them with high-quality replacement hardware from the Window Hardware Company. We stock tens of thousands of Amesbury Truth replacement parts for a variety of windows available in Canada and the United States of America.
Before cleaning your windows, read our blog to learn how these solutions could affect your window parts.
Abrasive Cleaning Pads or Cloths
The standard dish sponge or steel wool pad is often used to clean the surface of window parts, including window crank operators, locks, and even hinges. Unfortunately, after even just one use, the rough exterior of sponges and pads can end up scratching the coating off of the hardware. While this doesn't immediately alter the window's functionality, its appearance will quickly diminish. The best option is reusable microfibre cloths that gently get into the crevices of awning and casement window parts to pull out trapped debris. When it comes time to replace your hardware, choose high-quality and durable Amesbury Truth window parts from the Window Hardware Company.
Corrosive Cleaning Solutions
Many everyday household cleaning products are used universally, whether they're safe for use with that material or not. Both chlorine bleach and alcohol-based glass cleaners are corrosive, accelerating the deterioration and fading of paint and coatings. In more extreme cases, or after repeated use, harsh chemicals that are highly alkaline induce damage to the metal beneath the surface of the casement and awning window parts. Ammonium, a frequently used metal cleaning product, is known to trigger stress corrosion when used in excess. Not only does corrosion alter the look of awning and casement window parts, but they interfere with functionality too. When window hinges, window locks, window cranks, and window operators rust and decay, the particles and flakes that are produced easily become logged between gears and mechanisms, making simply using your window more challenging.
Melamine Sponges
Melamine sponges are something of a miracle cleaner. The innovative sponge is beloved for its ability to cause stubborn stains and markings to vanish with a swipe or two. While this is undoubtedly convenient for busy property owners looking to maintain the appearance of their windows, the use of melamine sponges on window locks and other essential window parts erodes the protective coating, leaving hardware exposed to external elements that further damage.
How to Clean Your Window Parts
The best way to preserve your windows is by approaching cleaning with caution. Use soft microfibre cloths and non-corrosive solutions, and care every step of the way. If one of your awning or casement window parts has been damaged or become damaged, there's no need to stress. Instead, visit the Window Hardware Company for high-quality Amesbury Truth window hardware.
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