uPVC, or uplasticised polyvinyl chloride to give it its full name, is Britain’s most popular conservatory material, and it’s also widely used in replacement windows.
Essentially, uPVC is plastic which hasn’t been softened using chemicals. And when you consider the benefits – it’s low-maintenance and durable in all weathers including a coastal climate, yet attractive looking and cost-effective – it’s easy to understand why it’s so favoured. uPVC is also highly versatile, and while white is still a sought-after colour, there are many others available. Wood grain, for example, is an increasingly popular choice.
Of course, low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance – dust and dirt inevitably build up over time. Clearly, regular cleaning will keep your home improvement looking much better for far longer. So with spring now well and truly here, what’s the best and safest way to go about giving your uPVC a nice sprucing up?
The good news is that uPVC is an easy material to lift grime from, so the task of cleaning your uPVC conservatory or windows doesn’t have to be arduous.
Cleaning Products to Avoid Using on uPVC
Before you get started, the products NOT to use on uPVC include:
- White spirits
- Bleach
- Scouring pads
- Methylated spirits
It’s also important not to apply excessive pressure to the surface as you clean.
How to clean uPVC Windows and Conservatories
With windows, open and vacuum all of the vents and other nooks and crannies to shift grubbiness. Taking your vacuum cleaner to your windows may seem odd, but it’s effective. And any fluid that builds up will drain away more easily if the window is clear of dirt. Use a brush nozzle attachment if your vacuum cleaner has one. Alternatively, grab a dustpan and brush!
Afterwards, wipe down with a bucket of warm water and washing up liquid and a soft sponge. To dry off, just use anything non-abrasive and clean. A tea towel, other cloth or even kitchen roll will do.
Another cleaning method is to fill an empty spray bottle with a solution of warm water and white vinegar and spray it straight on to the frames. Wait briefly then wipe with a clean cloth.
You may need to get up a ladder for some of the harder to reach spots, in which case get someone else to hold the bottom as you work, and to be around generally.
While the spring weather can show up grubby marks, making you want to reach for the bucket and sponge, bear in mind that if you wash windows while too much direct sunlight is shining on them, the cleaning fluid may dry too quickly so that your efforts won’t be as effective.
Finally, to get rid of smears from the glass pane, some newspaper usually does a pretty good job.
Do your windows or Conservatory need more than just a clean? Then get in touch with us today to get a free quote for replacement uPVC windows and/or a new uPVC conservatory.