Use and Care Manual

5
HARDWARECLEANING&LUBRICATION
HARDWARECLEANING
Maintain hardware any time windows are not opening or
closingproperlyoratleastbi-annually(monthlyforcoastal
areas)forthefollowing:
• Cleandirt/debris
• Tightenloosescrews
• Replacedamagedhardware
PRECAUTIONS
The following substances may damage protective hardware
nishes. Do not use:
• Vinegar-basedcleaners
• Citrus-basedcleaners(lemon,etc.)
• Paintremovers
• Windowcleaners
• Brick/sidingwashes
• Anyotherindustrialorabrasivecleaners
Use caution with silicone-based sprays. Apply only in small
amountsanddonotoverspray.Wipeoffexcesslubricantto
avoidstainingand/ordamagetootherwindoworpatiodoor
parts. Silicone may cause some hard plastic parts to become
brittle.
HARDWARETYPES
Metal hardware offers functionality, aesthetic appeal and
resistance to corrosion, but is not totally corrosion proof.
Replace corroded hardware.
Plastic hardwareoffershighresistancetotheelements;
however, over time, can deteriorate from ultraviolet light,
heat,cold,andchemicalexposure.
General Cleaning
1.Removehardwareforeasiercleaning.
2.Usemildsoapandwateronasoftclothorsponge;rinse
and wipe dry. For stubborn dirt, use a soft bristle brush to
gently scrub.
3.Applyseveralcoatsofhighquality,non-abrasivecarwax.
4. Reinstall hardware.
Heavy Cleaning
Solvents, abrasives, and other cleaners could cause damage
to protective coatings on hardware. If the general cleaning
procedure is not sufcient, call us for recommendations.
Cleaning and lubrication help to maintain and restore smooth operation to movable parts of windows and patio doors and, in most
cases, offer corrosion protection. Always thoroughly clean hardware before lubricating.
HARDWARELUBRICATION
Different hardware parts need different types of lubricants.
Suggested Lubricant Types
White or Lithium Grease:
Protects metal surfaces against corrosion, reduces
frictionandwearonmovingparts,andisanexcellent
multi-purpose lubricant.
Light Oil (such as 3-in-One
®
):
Useforslidingorrotatingjoints.
Graphite (spray black carbon powder):
Use for door lock key ways and hinges.
Note! Use care when applying graphite to prevent
possible staining of parts.
Spray Silicone:
Useforslidertracks,jambliners,andweatherstrip.
Note! Do not spray directly onto hardware surfaces.
Spray onto clean cloth to apply.
Plastic Hardware
Most hard plastic hardware parts
(e.g.sashretainerlatches)require
periodic cleaning for smooth
operation and do not require
lubrication.
Butt Hinges
Note! Butt hinges are located on
swinging patio doors and some
window styles. Lubricate hinges with
lightoil(3-In-One
®
oilorequivalent)
annually or when noisy.
HorizontalSliders&Single-HungWindows
There are two different single-hung windows. One offers a
side-load sash identied by a metal clip and the other utilizes
axed,screwedinbalancerod.
1.Vacuumtrackorsidejambsthoroughly(checkfor
obstructionssuchasrocks,pethair,etc.).
2.Wipewithsponge,mildsoapandwater.
3.Rinseandletdry.
4.Applysiliconespraytodry,softcloth;wipeontrackor
sidejambs;donotapplysiliconetoweatherstrip.
5.Installsash(ifpreviouslyremoved).
6.Slidesashbackandforth(upanddownonsingle-hung)
to check operation.
Retainer Latch