Windows Maintenance

Windows Maintenance Guide

/in , , , , /by

Windows are a critical element of any home, providing natural light, ventilation and an aesthetic appeal. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your windows functioning smoothly and looking their best. This comprehensive Windows Maintenance Guide will help you navigate the care and upkeep of various window types, ensuring they remain in tip-top shape.

Bi-Fold Windows

Bi-fold windows are popular for their space-saving design and ability to open wide for a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. To clean and maintain bi-fold windows, follow these steps:

• Gently vacuum the tracks to remove debris and dirt
• Wipe down the frames with a damp cloth and mild soapy water
• Clean the glass with a soft, lint-free cloth and a streak-free window cleaner
• Lubricate the hinges and locks with silicone spray to ensure smooth operation

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are known for their simplicity and ease of use. To keep them in optimal condition, perform these tasks:

• Remove the window sashes and clean the tracks with a brush or vacuum
• Apply a non-abrasive cleaner to the frames and wipe with a soft cloth
• Clean the glass with a suitable window cleaner, using a squeegee for a streak-free finish
• Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and rollers for smooth sliding action

Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows feature two movable sashes, offering excellent ventilation and versatility. To maintain them, adhere to these guidelines:

• Open both sashes and vacuum the tracks and sash channels
• Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to clean the frames and sashes
• Wipe the glass with a microfibre cloth and your preferred window cleaning solution
• Inspect and lubricate the window’s balance system to ensure smooth operation

Louvre Windows

Louvre windows provide excellent airflow and are easy to clean, thanks to their adjustable blades. To maintain them, follow these steps:

• Adjust the blades to their fully open position and dust or vacuum any debris
• Clean the glass blades with a suitable window cleaner and a soft cloth
• Check the operating mechanism and apply lubricant if required

Fixed Lite Windows

Fixed lite windows don’t open but still require regular cleaning and inspection. To care for them, do the following:

• Clean the exterior glass with a squeegee and a window cleaner, reaching high windows with an extension pole if needed
• Wipe the interior glass with a soft cloth and a streak-free cleaning solution
• Inspect the window seals and frames for signs of wear or damage, addressing any issues promptly

Awning Windows

Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward, providing excellent ventilation and protection from the elements. To maintain them, perform these tasks:

• Vacuum the tracks and hinges to remove dust
• Wipe the frames and sashes with a damp cloth and a mild detergent
• Inspect and lubricate the hinges and locks as needed

Casement Windows

Casement windows open outward like a door and provide excellent ventilation. To care for them, adhere to these guidelines:

• Vacuum the tracks and hinges to remove dirt
• Wipe the glass with a soft cloth and a streak-free window cleaner
• Inspect and lubricate the hinges, locks and crank mechanism as required

Framed Windows

Framed windows come in various styles and materials, including timber, aluminium and uPVC. To maintain framed windows, follow these steps:

• Dust or vacuum the windowsills and tracks to remove debris
• Wipe the glass with a soft cloth and your preferred window cleaning solution
• Inspect and lubricate any moving parts, such as hinges and locks, as needed

A Bright Room With Sliding Window

5 Ways To Make Your Home Brighter

/in , , , /by

Everyone wants a home that feels bright and welcoming. Whether you are looking to add function to your kitchen or make a bedroom feel more spacious, there are several simple ways to brighten up your space. In this article, we will discuss five ways lighting can help make your home feel brighter and also provide examples of how to use lighting effectively in different rooms of your house.

1. Paint your walls a lighter colour

If you want your home to be brighter, paint the walls a lighter colour. This will reflect light and make it look brighter. You could paint all the walls in a light colour like white or cream, but if you have woodwork or furniture that is dark, like oak, then the results may not look as pleasing to the eye. A good compromise would be painting a feature wall in one of these colours while keeping all the other walls white or cream, as this would still create an overall lighter effect but will not clash too much with your existing furniture.

2. Install more mirrors and reflective surfaces

If you are looking to brighten up your space, mirrors are an excellent option. They reflect light and make rooms look brighter. You can hang them on walls or place them on furniture, but be careful not to cover up existing windows with them. Mirrors can direct light into dark corners of your room that would normally be difficult for both natural and artificial daylight to reach.

Mirrors are not the only reflective surfaces that will help brighten a space—stainless steel and glass do so just as well. For example, try using stainless steel as a backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom; it will bounce light from overhead sources and create an overall brighter appearance.

3. Add a skylight or two

Skylights are a great way to let in more natural light. They can be installed on the roof or in the ceiling and are available in fixed and adjustable styles. In addition to bringing light into your home, skylights can also help you heat and cool it more efficiently by reducing the amount of conditioned air that gets pulled out of your living space. Installing them yourself is possible if you have basic DIY skills; otherwise, hiring a professional installer could save time and money.

4. Try to keep your windows as clean as possible

If you are serious about brightening up your home, it helps to keep your windows as clean as possible. You can do this with a squeegee – while you may have heard that using a squeegee will cause the glass to crack, this is not true. If you wash the window in one direction and use care when putting away the squeegee, there is no danger of cracking or breaking your windows.

5. Buy your windows from Southern Cross Windows

If you want to brighten up your home, we suggest that you buy your new windows from Southern Cross Windows. We offer a full range of windows, from louvre and bi-fold to sliding. All our windows are made in Australia and are manufactured using high-quality materials that will last for many years to come.

We hope this article has helped you get started. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask us! We are always happy to help and we love hearing from people who are interested in making their homes brighter.

Bi-Fold Doors

Have You Considered Bifold Doors?

/in , , /by

When you get to experience such glorious weather as we routinely do here on the Gold Coast, then something that deserves much more consideration than you might first think is the quality and style of your home’s windows and doors.

You want your living environment to compliment the climate as much as possible, and here at Southern Cross Windows, we happen to think that bifold doors are the perfect solution.

If you don’t know what bifold doors are, then simply put, there are doors that are comprised of a number of panels that are hinged together, allowing for full retraction and stacking to the sides. This type of door brings with it lots of different advantages and benefits, here are some of the best.

 

  • Bifold doors give you the chance to receive as much natural light from the outdoors in to your home as possible.
  • The versatile nature of the folding doors makes it really simple to combine two rooms into one larger room for functions and special parties.
  • The doors are incredibly easy to manoeuvre and stack away to one or both sides, making for a smooth and problem free operation whenever you want to change the dynamic of the room.
  • The doors have an outward track system, which means that they are very easy to maintain and clean any grit, sand, or other debris away from.
  • The access panels have a four-point locking system which ensures that you experience as much security and safety when they are locked as freedom and spaciousness when they are open.
  • The doors come in a wide variety of colours to fit any kind of interior home décor.
  • They are powder coated to ensure much better strength and durability, an incredibly important feature when you are talking about windows and doors.
  • With a maximum height of 3.1 metres and a maximum width of 8 metres, we can pretty much guarantee that our doors can be manufactured to fit any kind of space that you need to be filled in your home.

So, if those reasons appeal to you, and you think that bifold doors might be a great addition to your own home, then please don’t hesitate to give us a call, one of our dedicated team members will be more than happy to discuss options, quotes and details with you.

Transform your home with the help of our quality doors today!

Grey framed awning windows in a room with sheer curtains

Different Window Options For Your Home

/in , /by

If you are in the process of building a new home, remodelling your current property or looking to replace your old windows we can help.

You may not be aware of the vast range of different window options now available from Southern Cross Windows for both residential and commercial properties.

For homeowners looking for windows Gold Coast we have a range of windows that will cater for all tastes, properties and requirements.

At first, the choice may be overwhelming but Southern Cross Windows has a professional team of advisers who can talk you through the multitude of options available.

This means you will find the right treatment for your home or business.

Located in Currumbin Waters, we provide and install windows and doors to both residential and commercial properties throughout the Gold Coast and Northern NSW.

Bi-fold windows

There is no better window for allowing a seamless transition from the inside to the outside.

Bi-folding windows discretely fold away from view and allow unobstructed access to the outdoors.

From smaller bi-fold windows to almost entire wall size windows, this great design will add a focal point to any home.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows offer the homeowner a sleek and stylish option for their property.

A functional style of window that is designed to improve both the interior and exterior appearance of your home.

Hung Windows

Choosing double hung windows allows the flexibility to direct the airflow into a property by either the top or bottom opening, or both together.

Louvre Windows

A simple and classic design, Louvre windows on the Gold Coast are perfect for controlling the direction of airflow into the property.

This is done by altering the pitch of the glass blades against the weather.

Fixed Light Windows

As the names suggests, these windows are fixed and sealed units, which simply provide the influx of light into a property.

Available in a range of sizes, they are commonly used in conjunction with Louvre windows to allow more airflow into your home or business.

Casement Windows

If you have a coastal property that is prone to extreme weather conditions.

The casement windows will be the best option for you. Specifically designed and tested for extreme weather, including wind resistance up to 360/kmh.

Other types of windows and accessories include: awning windows and commercial framed windows.

Window screens are available to complete the style and look of your project.

How Do I Find the Best Window Treatment For My Needs?

Whatever your project, if you need to discuss your window needs on the Gold Coast contact with our team today.

Call us on 07 5534 3300 or fill in our form via our website.

If your interested in doors, you may find our previous post of interest to you:

Benefits Of Our Different Doors

Bi-Fold Windows & Doors Gold Coast

Best Quality Bi-Fold Windows On The Gold Coast

/in , , /by

Here on the Gold Coast, bi-fold doors and windows are a very popular choice with homeowners.

Their design makes it easy to seamlessly combine a property’s interior with the exterior, potentially doubling the size of living rooms and kitchens with no fuss.

While this is a stunning design feature to take advantage of the great outdoors and glorious Gold Coast weather, sturdy and well-fitted doors and windows will also withstand the worst the weather can throw at you depending on the season.

At Southern Cross Windows, we have both the products and experience to find the best bi-folds for any property.

Local Quality

At Southern Cross, we are a family owned and locally run business specialising in finding bi-fold window and door solutions for homes on the Gold Coast.

We have many years of experience in the industry, and offer custom bi-fold doors and windows manufactured and fitted by our own expert team.

By carefully listening to our customers needs, we understand your requirements from the outset of your renovation.

Replacing existing windows and doors is not something to be done hastily, and we appreciate you may be hesitant to take on a large job like replacing all of your windows and or doors.

Because we look after you from design specifications to installation and include efficient after-care, we provide the most comprehensive window and door replacement service.

This is also the most efficient way of doing things, so we are able to keep our costs to a minimum, while providing, installing and maintaining the highest quality bi-fold doors and windows.

Great Options

We offer a bespoke range of window and door sizes based on your needs.

Whether you are building from scratch and have your own design ideas, or are replacing old frames and units, we will advise on a huge range of options.

As well as bi-fold doors, we make and fit hinged, sliding and stacker doors to complement them.

By combining bi-fold windows and doors with some of the other options, you can make your living space feel much more open and free of obstacles and clutter.

For families with young or older members who need room to move about easily, bi-fold windows and doors can make the difference between staying in your current property or trying to buy bigger.

By helping you explore your options, we at Southern Cross will let you get a clearer idea of what you can achieve in your current property.

All our window and door units are made to the highest safety standards, and resist accidental breakage or deliberate break in attempts.

As we manufacture and fit our products to the highest design standards, we also offer your home added security features.

With our superb quality windows and doors, your home will not only look and feel great, but will increase in value quite noticeably.

Find Out More

For more information, or just a chat about our bi-fold doors and windows, contact us at Southern Cross Windows. You can also call us at 07 5534 3300.

You may find our previous post ‘Whats The Best Sound Rating Glass On The Gold Coast?’ of interest to you:

What’s the Best Sound Rating Glass on the Gold Coast?

Sound Proofing window Film

What’s the Best Sound Rating Glass on the Gold Coast?

/in , , /by

Here at Southern Cross Windows, we are committed to providing the best glazing solutions for the whole of our customers’ needs. From bi fold doors and windows to security screens, we offer a great range of products and expertise to cater for all your requirements.

One of our fastest growing demands is for glazing products, which offer protection from outside irritants, including excess noise.

We are the experts on the Gold Coast providing multiple sound reduction solutions to help make your living spaces more comfortable and not feel like the highway traffic is going to be coming through the side of the house.

Extra Layer

A lot of people look to double-glazing, which is quite effective but is more suitable for climate control and commercial applications.  Being on the Gold Coast, climate control isn’t really a major concern.  As with all technology, double-glazing is part of a process that has produced a great new generation of products, which still perform like the older-style double-glazing with improved aspects.

Double-glazing was invented to reduce the interference of outside noise while preserving the energy within buildings to help keep heating costs as low as possible. It relies on an extra layer of glass and a spacer to reduce the sound, thus giving extra protection between the outside and the inside, doubling the efficiency of single glazing.

Today, there is a technological breakthrough that gives you this added protection at a fraction of the cost.

Acoustic Glass

Major glass suppliers have engineered an acoustic glass that provides the sound reduction, that you need which we at Southern Cross believe will represent the next generation of Gold Coast sound reduction products, without compromising safety or style.

Acoustic glass is a laminated glass that uses an advanced interlayer enabling it to absorb more sound energy, helping to reduce different types of noise, especially high-frequency types.  According to Viridian, their VLam Hush™ buffers outside sound, decreasing sound by up 34% in comparison to ordinary glass^.

This revolutionary new glass technology has a noise inter-layer inbetween the two layers of your glass, which enhances sound insulation without interfering with the amount of light entering your home or business.

By installing acoustic glass, you will get the benefits of both double-glazing and window tinting, with an extra level of noise insulation.  As this glazing can be made to fit any size of door and window panel, it is perfect for homes and businesses.

Here on the Gold Coast, this kind of solution is a WINNER.  Whatever option you choose, the team at Southern Cross is committed to installing only the best solution for all our customers.

Find Out More

To find out more about Gold Coast sound reduction and all our other great glazing solutions at Southern Cross Windows, visit our website, or call 07 5534 3300.

 

Commercial Framed Windows

Benefits of Commercial Framed Windows for Your Business

/in , , /by

If you are renovating your business and thinking of investing in aluminium products, you will be keen to know everything you can about the advantages of this versatile material.

Aluminium windows and bifold doors have steadily increased in popularity over the past few decades.

For a long time, there was a misconception among consumers that aluminium products were only available in silver and were not very customisable.

However, times have changed and with advances in technology and powder coating, aluminium products now come in an array of finishes and designs that are sure to incite your interest.

Southern Cross Windows is located on Queensland’s sunny the Gold Coast and specialises in the manufacture and installation of aluminium windows and doors.

Our products are locally made and tested to stringent Australian standards. Aluminium windows are durable and require little to no maintenance due to the metal’s anti-corrosive and weather-resistant properties.

The alloy can withstand a range of tough environmental conditions. Aluminium windows and doors resist swelling, cracking, splitting or warping.

Other products in this material feature advanced locking mechanisms, so you can relax knowing your commercial property is secure.

Overhauling your building’s current windows for commercial framed windows or new aluminium bifold doors from Southern Cross Windows will immediately make your business more eco-friendly and can save your company a lot of money in the long run.

We only supply and install high quality aluminium windows are exceptionally energy-efficient and offer excellent sound and thermal insulation.

You will notice a significant decrease in your business’ heating bills, as well as a reduction in external noise, which can disrupt employees.

Aluminium is also an affordable alternative to other materials yet still delivers on strength and versatility.

When you decide to go with aluminium products, you open yourself to a world of design flexibility.

With a huge selection of systems, finishes and glass options, we can help you tailor the right design to suit your company’s brand and image.

For example, if you can impress your clients with a sleek black or neutral grey set of window frames or bifold doors, the choice is really up to you. Our products come power-coated in a variety of contemporary colours.

At Southern Cross Windows, we pride ourselves in providing personalised care, quality products and professional workmanship. Why not contact us for an obligation-free quote? Call us at (07) 5534 3300.

You may also find our previous post “The Latest Trends in Aluminium Windows and Doors” of interest to you.

 

The latest trends in aluminium windows and doors

Patio Bi-Fold Doors

Why you need bi-fold doors this summer

/in , , /by

In summer, we tend to spend more time outside, entertaining and enjoying the outdoors. Bi-fold doors gives you the flexibility to enhance your summertime fun, whilst cooling down even the most sauna-like homes —and the benefits don’t end there!

What are bi-fold doors?

Made up of a number of durable aluminium-framed panels, bi-fold doors glide along a track to provide an uninterrupted view of your entertaining area or yard. The panels are hinged together, allowing for them to be easily opened and closed on either side of the track.

By installing bi-fold doors, you’re getting so much more than a secure, stylish entry and exit to your home.

Here are just some of the positive ways bi-fold doors will enhance your lifestyle:

Save money on your power bills with bi-fold doors

It feels like we always have the air conditioner on for either cooling us down in summer or warming us up in winter. With the double glazing in bi-fold doors (and windows), you can keep your home the perfect temperature all year round—saving you money on your power bills.

Leave your bi-fold doors open to allow the cool breeze to drift through, or keep them closed to let natural light in while insulating your home.

Expand your entertaining and living area with bi-fold doors

When open, bi-fold doors provide uninterrupted views of your outdoor space. Not only does this create a picturesque setting, you can enjoy a more seamless entertaining space that looks and feels much larger than it really is.

The smooth gliding tracks make folding back the doors easy. This allows for simple access to and from your yard or entertaining area, while still being highly secure when locked.

Add value to your home with bi-fold doors

Something about the warmer months inspires people to buy homes.

Installing bi-fold doors prior to listing your property may help increase its value, as well as attract people to your bright, spacious-looking home.

The original investment is well worth the return you’ll receive.

For expert advice on the design and installation of your new bi-fold doors or windows, don’t hesitate to contact Southern Cross Glass Doors and Windows on the Gold Coast.

We have a large range of frame colours and glass tints available.

You might also find the following article of interest if you are considering bi-fold windows: What is a Bi-Fold Window

 

what are bifold windows

What is a Bi-Fold Window?

/in , , /by

what are bifold windows

Bifold Windows

Bi-fold windows provide the wonderful function of connecting your interior spaces with your exterior spaces. This combination not only allows for a free-flowing entertainment space, it also provides unobstructed views. This allows your entire space to become one large area.

Function

Bi-fold windows are functional and stylish. They consist of a number of hinged framed window panels that fold into each other simply and elegantly, to open up any space.

Why Bi-Fold?

Bi-fold windows have the ability to transform your house. They provide a clear and unobstructed view, but they also ensure good ventilation and natural light. The lack of obstructive beams, columns, or panels, ensures that the connection between the interior and exterior is seamless.

But the seamlessness doesn’t end there. Their smooth and simple-to-operate sliding system comes with a clean exterior finish that complements and suits the design of almost any home.

Usage

Not all windows are created equally, or for the same purpose. The functionality of the bi-fold window means that they connect your interior spaces with your exterior spaces. It also means that they can connect the spaces inside your house. For instance, a bi-fold window is perfectly designed to bring together your kitchen and your dining area.

This created space could be used as a breakfast or afternoon tea counter or as a functional space to prepare a snack. This same function can be used to serve food from the kitchen to the living area or your outdoor entertainment area.

Visibility

With superior security and precisely hinged frames, bi-fold windows block out noise perfectly. At the same time, they provide unobstructed views so that you can look out to the pool or garden and watch the kids play while enjoying the calmness of your interior living areas.

The discrete and unobtrusive design means that any opening can be turned into a relaxing window seat to overlook your spectacular Gold Coast ocean views.

Preference

Aluminium bi-fold windows are powder-coated, which means they have a high durability. Because of this, they don’t require huge amounts of upkeep and are easy to clean. Bi-fold windows are available in a wide range of colours and designs, meaning you can style your home however you want.

Bi-fold windows are the perfect addition to your home. They can transform any room or living area into a multi-functional, free-flowing space that you won’t know how you lived without. For an obligation-free quote on your windows, contact Southern Cross Windows today.

woman coloring an aluminum window with paint brush

Colouring Aluminium Windows and Doors

/in , , , /by

Colouring Aluminium Windows and Doors

Colouring Aluminium Windows and Doors

You might be looking to invest in new doors and windows for your home, but perhaps you’re unsure of which material to go with. Aluminium, as you have probably already gleaned, is an incredibly durable and versatile material that can withstand even the toughest Gold Coast weather. It is low maintenance and easy to manipulate into a range of designs. Did you also know that you can get aluminium doors and windows in a variety of colours through the process of powder coating?

What is Powder Coating?

Powder coating is very similar to painting in that it allows you to choose your colour for a clean, bright finish. The process involves preparing the aluminium surface, applying the paint electronically, and then placing it in the oven to bake and finish. Like porcelain, you will find a hard, durable finish that is applied evenly and even offers an extra layer of protection against the elements.

Other Colouring Options

Another means of colouring aluminium that is a bit less popular is called aluminium anodising. This involves an electrochemical process whereby the coating is actually added to the material. The end result is a thicker layer over the metal, a more durable surface and corrosion-resistant aluminium.

You’ve Got The Colour, Now What About the Style?

One of the best things about using aluminium to frame your windows and doors is its incredible versatility in style. You can completely change the look and feel of many rooms in your house through the strategic use of windows and doors. Aluminium windows and doors come in a range of shapes and styles that can be cut to your exact specifications. Combine that ability with whatever colour you choose and you have a match made in heaven!

Try going white for a clean, modern look with floor-to-ceiling bi-fold doors that will give you incredible unobstructed access in and out of the house when opened fully. Or add a touch of sophistication with large sliding doors, outlined in sleek black aluminium. Give your home traditional and controlled light and airflow with soft off-white awning windows.

Don’t underestimate the power and appeal of a splash of colour. A bit of bright blue or turquoise along your sliding window frames will really draw the eye to the shape of the window and what lies beyond. If you are thinking of playing around with an interesting fixed light window, try outlining it with a dark blue or black to make the look seem even more dramatic.

With aluminium windows and doors, the options are endless. If you have a vision, you can rest assured that you can see it through by using this versatile material to your liking.

With powder coating, there is no end to the custom options you can design so that your aluminium windows and doors match your home’s décor. Contact an expert at Southern Cross Windows on the Gold Coast to learn more.