Product Maintenance | Glass Co Metro

Frequently Asked Questions About Maintenance

Enjoy the peace of mind that Glass Co Metro guarantees its products against defects arising from faulty workmanship or materials for six years from date of delivery or installation, subject to the conditions and limitations below.

Product Care & Maintenance

How often should I clean my windows and doors?

We generally suggest cleaning every 3–6 months, depending on your home’s environment. Regular cleaning protects finishes and prevents wear on moving parts.

If your home is near the coast, major industrial zones or high-traffic roads, we suggest cleaning monthly to prevent salt or grime build-up.

See the table below to help determine what is best for your home.

What cleaning products are safe to use on my windows and doors?

Safe: Mild detergent, warm water, soft cloth or sponge.
Avoid: Abrasive cleaners, bleach, ammonia, high-pressure hoses, harsh chemicals.
These products damage glass, powder-coating, and hardware finishes.

How do I clean powder-coated aluminium frames?

Use a non-abrasive, mild detergent solution mixed with warm water.

Wipe with a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly to remove residue.

In coastal/industrial areas: clean monthly to protect the coating.

How do I clean standard window and door glass?

Use clean water and a soft cloth without buttons or grit.

A small amount of mild detergent can help.

Never use abrasive cleaners or scrubbers.

Always rinse well after using detergent to avoid residue or streaks.

How do I clean showerscreen glass and mirrors?

Clean weekly to prevent permanent soap etching.

Use a clean, soft cloth with diluted methylated spirits or a spray glass cleaner.

Immediately remove excess cleaner with a squeegee and clean water.

Never use abrasive pads.

Ensure glass has proper buffer clearance to avoid damage.

How do I clean insect or safety screens?

Clean 3–4 times per year.

Remove screen; hose thoroughly.

Brush gently using a soft nylon brush and mild detergent.

Hose off again and let dry before reinstalling.

How do I clean acid-etched or translucent laminated glass?

Use safe cleaning methods
- Clean with plenty of water and a soft sponge.
- You may use an alcohol-based glass cleaner.
Always clean the entire surface to avoid halo marks.
Avoid harsh materials
- Do not use razor blades, steel wool, abrasive pads, or harsh scourers.
Rinse and dry properly
- Rinse with clean water and dry with lint-free cloths.
- Avoid dry or dirty cloths that can scratch the surface.
For stubborn dirt, a high-pressure water cleaner heated to 30°C can be used.
Avoid chemicals containing hydrofluoric acid, chlorine, ammonia, or strong alkaline cleaners.

Tracks, Rollers & Screens

What should I do if my sliding door or window is hard to open?

Check for debris

Dirt or sand in tracks causes friction. Vacuum or brush it out.

Clean and lubricate

Wipe tracks with warm water and mild detergent.
Use silicone spray only (not oil).

Inspect rollers

Worn rollers may need adjustment or replacement by a technician.

How do I maintain rollers on sliding doors and windows?

Clean tracks and rollers 3–4 times per year.

Remove the panel from inside the home (lift into head, tilt outward).

Vacuum the track thoroughly using a narrow nozzle.

Wipe track and rollers with water + mild detergent.

Do not use abrasive cleaners.

How do I maintain window, door, and wardrobe tracks?

Keep tracks clean and drainage holes clear.

Excess dirt or grit should be removed from window, door and wardrobe tracks and drainage holes, either by vacuuming or brushing out.

Windows/doors are designed to take water into the track then drain through weep holes.

Keep weep holes free of obstruction to prevent leaks or pooling.

Keep your wardrobe rollers within the track

By keeping the track clean and free of debris and ensuring that the rollers are within the track correctly, you will boost your product’s longevity and stop the doors from getting stuck.

How do I remove insect or safety screens from sliding windows?

First remove the sliding glass panel from inside.
Press the clip on the screen frame, lift upward into head, tilt bottom outward, and remove.
For awning windows: press two clips at top, pull forward, then lift out.
Never remove screens from outside or with sliding panel still installed.

How do I remove screens from sliding or stacker doors?

Turn adjustment screw (bottom of screen) anti-clockwise.
- From outside, lift screen into head, tilt bottom outward, then remove.
Reverse steps to reinstall.
Do not remove from inside.

How do I maintain locks, handles, and hinges?

Regular cleaning
- Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
- Remove salt more frequently in coastal areas.
Lubrication
- Use graphite powder or silicone spray on moving parts.
- Avoid oil-based lubricants (they attract dust).
Check moving parts
Ensure screws, hinges, and mechanisms are tight and operate smoothly.

Condensation & Water Ingress

What causes window or door leaks?

Harsh weather

Heavy rain and strong winds can push water into window and door tracks faster than they can drain especially during storms.

Poor cleaning and maintenance

Blocked weep holes stop water from draining, causing water to pool, overflow, or leak inside. Regular track cleaning prevents this.

Faulty installation

Incorrect levels, unsupported sills, or obstructions (such as tiles or flooring installed too high) can block drainage pathways.

Design flaws

Flat fascia boards, complex window shapes, lack of overhangs, or other architectural elements can allow water to collect or run directly toward openings.

What should I check before winter?

Clear weep holes

Remove dirt and debris from drainage openings to prevent water build-up during storms.

Inspect seals and weather stripping

Look for cracks, gaps, or worn sections that could let in cold air or moisture.

Lubricate moving parts

Apply silicone spray to hinges, rollers, and locks to keep them operating smoothly through colder months.

Monitor condensation

Persistent condensation may indicate a window seal failure. Wipe moisture away and watch for recurring issues.

How do I prepare my windows and doors for summer?

Clean glass and frames

Remove dust, pollen, salt build-up, and grime that can damage finishes especially in coastal areas.

Check screens

Inspect mesh for tears, loose fittings, or debris. Clean with warm water and mild detergent.

Test locks and latches

Ensure all locking mechanisms work correctly for security during holiday and travel season.

Clear tracks and drainage points

Remove debris so water can drain freely during summer storms.

What causes condensation on my windows?

Between double-glazed panes

Indicates a seal failure. Moisture becomes trapped inside and will not clear on its own. The glazing unit must be replaced.

Inside the home

Usually caused by high indoor humidity. Moist air touches cooler glass, forming droplets. Improve airflow using exhaust fans, open windows, or a dehumidifier.

Outside the home

Common on humid mornings or in summer when indoor air-conditioning cools the glass. This is normal and usually evaporates quickly.

Window Tinting

Can I tint my double-glazed windows or doors?

Approved tints only

Only use tinting products approved by Glass Co Metro to avoid thermal stress cracks and warranty issues.

Use an approved installer

We recommend Total Tint Solutions.
Visit the Window Film Association of Australia & New Zealand (WFAANZ) directory.
Other installers must be approved before work begins.

Why it matters

Unapproved tinting can:
- Cause glass to crack
- Void your warranty
- Fail safety standards
- Reduce the performance of your glazing

Warranty

Where can I find information about my Glass Co Metro warranty period?

Enjoy the peace of mind that Glass Co Metro guarantees its products against defects arising from faulty workmanship or materials for six years from date of delivery or installation, subject to the conditions and limitations below.

Download Warranty Booklet

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