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Windows Maintenance

Windows Maintenance Guide

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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

House With Aluminium Doors And Windows

How Can I Modernise The Look Of My House?

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It’s a fact of life that homes tend to evolve over time. We move in, settle into our new space and then we start to think about ways we can make it feel more like our own. One of the elements that we usually forget about is our windows and doors, but they’re perhaps some of the most important. If your house needs an update but you don’t know where to start, then read on for some tips on how to modernise your home by installing new windows and doors.

Swap wooden windows for aluminium!

Replacing old windows with new ones can be an affordable way to update the look of your home. Although it seems like a very simple change, it’s the perfect way to add the finishing touches to your home and create a more contemporary look to help transform it into a space you love.

Updating your windows is also a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your energy bills. Plus, not only are they more secure and stylish, but many modern options also have a sleek glass finish that looks good from the outside, whilst also letting in plenty of sunlight.

Whether you go for a robust aluminium or a more affordable uPVC design, today’s windows are made from much more durable materials than before, making them easier to clean and maintain than traditional wooden frame options.

To add that extra sparkle, why not opt for some bi-folding windows? They will help to create a welcoming and open atmosphere that oozes throughout your home.

Aluminium Doors

Mix up your door style to let in more light

One of the easiest ways to give your house a more modern look is to change your door style. Since the front door is the first thing that most people spot when approaching a house, it is just as important as the windows. The same goes for any internal doors too – they can really help to make your home feel more open and inviting, letting light flood in and helping you move around the space more easily.

Aluminium doors are quickly becoming a popular option, mainly because of the variety of colours available. However, they’re also incredibly durable and resistant to the outside elements, making them less likely to rot or warp. If security is a concern for you, aluminium also has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it very hard to dent or prise open.

There are many different styles of doors out there as well, from bi-fold doors to sliding doors to hinged doors, so no matter what your preference, some new doors are bound to help bring your home to life.

If you’re in need of some inspiration on how to modernise the look of your home, then our modern windows and doors can really help you do this. Here at Southern Cross Windows, we offer a wide range of options for you to choose from to help create the home you love! Get in touch today by calling us on 07 5534 3300.

Grey framed awning windows in a room with sheer curtains

Different Window Options For Your Home

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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

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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?

Patio Bi-Fold Doors

Why you need bi-fold doors this summer

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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