How to Maintain Your uPVC Windows and Doors for Longevity

uPVC windows and doors are one of the most popular choices for homeowners across Newcastle—and for good reason.

They’re affordable, energy efficient, weather-resistant, and easy to look after. But like anything in your home, they still need a little care and attention to keep them looking and performing their best.

At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we’ve installed thousands of uPVC units across the North East. In this guide, we’ll share our top tips on how to maintain your uPVC windows and doors for long-lasting performance, clean looks, and hassle-free use for years to come.

Whether you live in a city-centre flat, a semi in Benton, or a terrace in Heaton, these simple steps will help protect your investment and avoid costly repairs.

Why maintaining uPVC is worth it

uPVC is a low-maintenance material by design—but it’s not maintenance-free.

Without care, even quality units can suffer from:

• Discoloured frames
• Stiff or squeaky hinges
• Blocked drainage channels
• Faulty seals or locks
• Reduced energy efficiency

Routine cleaning and a few seasonal checks will keep everything working smoothly and extend the lifespan of your windows and doors well beyond 20 years.

1. Clean the frames regularly

The biggest mistake we see homeowners make is ignoring dirt buildup on the frames. Over time, dust, pollen, pollution, and bird droppings can stain the surface and cause permanent discolouration.

How to clean uPVC frames

• Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm, soapy water (mild washing-up liquid works well)
• Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or bleach
• Wipe from top to bottom to avoid streaks
• Dry with a clean cloth or towel

Do this every few months—more often if you live near the coast or a busy road.

Avoid using pressure washers close to the frames, as they can damage seals or force water into unwanted areas.

2. Wash the glass carefully

Your uPVC units likely feature double or triple glazing, which needs proper care to maintain clarity and efficiency.

Use a simple solution of warm water and vinegar or a streak-free window cleaner. A microfibre cloth or squeegee works best.

Avoid washing windows in direct sunlight, as it can cause streaks.

Be careful not to spray water into the frame or around the seals when cleaning outside panes.

3. Lubricate the moving parts

Over time, hinges, handles, and locking mechanisms can become stiff—especially in cold or damp weather. A quick lubrication once or twice a year can prevent wear and tear.

What to do:

• Use a silicone spray or light oil (like 3-in-1) on moving parts
• Apply sparingly to handles, hinges, and locking rods
• Wipe off any excess to avoid attracting dirt

Avoid using WD-40 on locks—it can dry them out over time. Instead, use a graphite powder or lock-specific lubricant for cylinders.

This is especially important on back doors and windows that are used less frequently.

4. Check and clear drainage holes

All uPVC windows and doors have small drainage holes in the bottom of the frame to allow rainwater to escape. If these become blocked, water can build up and leak into your home.

How to check:

• Open the window or door and look for small slots or holes at the bottom of the outer frame
• Use a cotton bud, pipe cleaner, or soft brush to clear out dirt or debris
• Gently pour a small amount of water through to ensure it flows freely

We recommend doing this every spring and autumn, or after heavy storms.

5. Inspect and clean the seals

The rubber or foam seals around your uPVC windows and doors are crucial for keeping out draughts, water, and noise.

Over time, seals can dry out, crack, or get coated in grime.

How to maintain them:

• Wipe gently with a damp cloth and mild soap
• Check for gaps, splits, or loose sections
• Apply a silicone-based seal conditioner once or twice a year to keep them supple

If any seals are damaged or coming away, contact a professional. Replacing them early is much cheaper than fixing water damage later on.

6. Keep your locks and handles in good condition

Handles and locks should move smoothly and feel secure. If they stick, feel loose, or fail to lock fully, it could be a sign of misalignment or wear.

Maintenance tips:

• Tighten any loose screws on handles or escutcheons
• Clean around the keyhole and mechanism
• Don’t force stiff locks—instead, lubricate and test again
• Check that multipoint locks engage properly when the door is closed

If the locking points aren’t aligning, it may be time to have the hinges or door adjusted.

We recommend testing all windows and doors at least once every few months, especially if they’re not opened regularly.

7. Realign if needed

uPVC doors and windows can drop or shift over time—especially on south-facing walls that expand and contract more in sunlight.

Signs of misalignment include:

• Difficulty locking or unlocking
• Drafts around the edges
• The door or window catching when opened
• Gaps visible when the unit is closed

In most cases, these issues can be fixed with minor hinge or keep adjustments. At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we’re happy to realign older installations to restore proper function.

8. Don’t hang heavy items on handles

We sometimes see homeowners hanging wreaths, baskets, or even laundry bags on their door handles. While this may seem harmless, the extra weight can strain the hinges and locking system over time.

Use alternative hooks or suction pads if you want to decorate your door—especially during holidays or special occasions.

9. Be mindful of sudden changes

uPVC expands in heat and contracts in cold. During extreme weather, doors and windows may feel tighter or looser than normal.

This is usually temporary. But if problems persist beyond a few days, it could be a sign of worn seals or a misaligned frame.

Don’t try to force a warped window shut—wait and see if it resolves with a temperature change. If not, get it checked.

10. Know when to call in the pros

Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your uPVC, but some issues need expert attention.

Get professional help if:

• The frame is cracked or warped
• Locks or handles won’t operate, even after lubrication
• Condensation is forming inside the double-glazed unit
• Seals have come loose or perished
• The door won’t close or lock properly

Catching issues early can prevent more serious damage or security risks.

Final thoughts

uPVC windows and doors are built to last—but they still benefit from regular care.

A few minutes every season is all it takes to keep them working smoothly, looking fresh, and saving you money on repairs or replacements down the line.

At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we install, maintain, and repair uPVC units across the city and surrounding areas. Whether you need new seals, realignment, or a full upgrade, we’re here to help.

Book a maintenance visit or free assessment

If your windows or doors are sticking, leaking, or showing signs of age, don’t wait.

Contact Windows and Doors Newcastle today. We offer professional advice, minor repairs, and full replacements—with no pressure and full transparency.

Protect your home and extend the life of your uPVC today.