Housing home user guide
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instructions precisely. Deal with the basic problem of condensation and mould<br />
should not then reappear.<br />
f. Efflorescence<br />
Another sign that a building is drying our may be the appearance of white<br />
staining on the outside walls. This is caused by salts in the brickwork leaking<br />
out and is known as efflorescence. This will eventually disappear.<br />
g. Caring for your new <strong>home</strong><br />
Windows and doors<br />
For cleaning the glass, just use a simple window spray cleaner with a cloth, or a<br />
soap that mixes with water.<br />
Whether you have uPVC windows or uPVC doors (or both), they do need taking care<br />
of once in a while. Maintenance-free just means they will never need to be coated or<br />
painted in order to stay in fine shape.<br />
Like most surfaces, they will pick up dirt and dust in the air, especially during hotter<br />
seasons. uPVC doors that are opened regularly will likely get dirty from being<br />
constantly touched and letting dirt and dust in the air come through. This is<br />
particularly the case for internal doors if you’re at <strong>home</strong> a lot.<br />
For the actual frames on your uPVC doors and windows, just use a liquid soap or<br />
mild detergent, mixed with warm water. Don’t forget to also wipe out the drainage<br />
channels. The cleaning part really is that simple.<br />
Vents<br />
Opening vents on windows require an even push or pull when being opened or<br />
closed. Where two handles have been fitted, both should be used together to avoid<br />
damage to the friction stays. Vents left open for long periods may sometimes result<br />
in an accumulation of windblown dirt on the stays, leading to clogging and restriction<br />
action. If this should occur do NOT use force, but remove dirt and free the action<br />
with WD-40 spray or penetrating oil.<br />
Patio Doors & French Doors<br />
Tracks should be kept clean for smooth running, and drainage channels kept clear.<br />
For maintaining the functionality of your uPVC windows and doors, you need to keep<br />
the mechanisms lubricated from time to time. It’s recommended that you use<br />
periodic lubrication with WD-40 spray, whether it be for windows, external doors or<br />
internal doors. The mechanisms to keep lubricated include the handles, lock<br />
assemblies, hinges, letter plate springs and striking plates.<br />
The overall cleaning and maintenance does not have to be done too often –<br />
basically, if something is dirty, clean it, and if a mechanism is not up to scratch,<br />
lubricant it!<br />
Stainless Steel Sink:<br />
This should only be cleaned with a non-abrasive cleaner.