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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.

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