UPVC windows are often sold as a “set and forget” upgrade—and to be fair, they are much easier to manage than timber or aluminium. But here's the catch: easier doesn’t mean effortless.

I learned this the hard way. A few years back, I installed UPVC frames across the back of the house—looked great, sealed out noise, cut down on heat. But I ignored them for ages. No cleaning, no checks. And then one summer, the sliding window jammed halfway open during a 40-degree day. Took a screwdriver and far too much swearing to fix.

Thing is, maintenance doesn’t take much. But if you skip it, small stuff can get out of hand.

If you're unsure where to start, connecting with an UPVC windows expert is always a safe bet. But if you're more of a DIY type, keep reading—this guide covers what to clean, check, and fix to keep your windows sliding smoothly for years.

Why even “low-maintenance” windows need a look-in

UPVC windows don’t rot, swell, or need painting like timber. That’s a win. But Aussie conditions—salt air, bush dust, UV—still leave their mark. Hinges get dry. Runners collect grit. Seals shrink a little each year.

Routine care helps you:

  • Keep everything opening and locking smoothly
  • Avoid air leaks or draughts
  • Catch wear early before it gets expensive
  • Hold on to that clean, sharp finish
  • Prevent water creeping in through dried-out gaskets

And let’s be honest—there’s something satisfying about windows that work just right.

The maintenance basics (most of this takes under 10 minutes)

This isn’t a full-blown chore list. Just a few things to work into your routine every couple of months.

1. Give the frames a once-over

Dust and pollution cling to static surfaces. White UPVC can look grey real quick if ignored.

  • Use warm soapy water and a microfibre cloth
  • Skip anything abrasive—it’ll scratch the surface
  • Avoid cream cleaners or solvents
  • Get into corners where dirt builds up

Tip: The inside usually stays fine. It’s the outside—especially street-facing windows—that need more frequent cleaning.

2. Tracks and sliding sections

This one’s crucial for sliding doors and windows. Dirt builds up fast and turns glides into grind.

  • Vacuum the track
  • Wipe with damp cloth
  • Use a silicone-based spray to keep it smooth
  • Never use WD-40—it gums up over time

If the slide still feels rough, check for a small stone or grit stuck in the lower rail.

3. Locks, handles, and hinges

UPVC hardware is sturdy, but coastal air and humidity will still dry out moving parts.

  • Lubricate hinges and locks every 6 months
  • Check screws—tighten if loose
  • Make sure handles click firmly and don’t rattle

I do this when I clean the tracks—it’s a 2-minute job but keeps things moving like new.

A quick real-world example

My cousin replaced all their windows in Penrith with modern UPVC units. Looked mint. But they skipped track cleaning. One sticky window turned into four. Then they noticed water pooling at the base of the frame after rain.

Turns out the drain holes were blocked, and dirt in the runners was backing everything up. Could’ve been avoided with a cloth and a vacuum.

Gaskets and seals: The quiet MVPs

The rubber around your UPVC frames keeps weather, noise, and heat where they belong. But it does age—especially under Aussie sun.

What to check:

  • Any cracking, shrinking or splitting along the seals
  • Looseness around corners
  • Water or condensation inside the glass unit (on double glazing)

Lightly press the gasket—if it doesn’t spring back, it’s drying out. You can buy a silicone conditioner to keep rubber flexible, or get replacements fitted.

You’ll find more insight on this in the 'Why Choose UPVC Windows' guide—it breaks down energy savings and explains why sealing makes such a difference.

What causes fading or yellowing?

New UPVC frames are UV-resistant. But after years in full sun—especially darker colours—you might notice slight fading or chalky texture.

Here’s what I’d try:

  • Wipe with warm soapy water
  • Use UPVC cleaner (avoid bleach or abrasives)
  • Test a small patch before applying any commercial products
  • If the damage is deep, speak to a pro about recoating options

Generally, white frames hold up best. But even dark greys and blacks now come with improved stabilisers.

UPVC and energy efficiency: Still solid?

Absolutely. But only if everything’s sealed up tight and glass units are intact. If you’re noticing draughts or weirdly high bills, it's worth doing a quick check.

  • Are seals in good shape?
  • Any condensation forming inside panes?
  • Feel cold air near frames on windy days?

If you're building or replacing, refer to the energy-efficient windows standards in Australia; they’ll give you benchmarks for how your setup should perform.

How UPVC compares to timber and aluminium

Let’s keep it real: all window materials have their place. But if you're after minimal fuss, UPVC is hard to beat.

  • Aluminium looks clean but conducts heat unless thermally broken
  • Timber is beautiful but demands sanding, painting, and sealing
  • UPVC just needs a wipe and some oil on the hinges

Want to go deeper? This guide on how UPVC compares to aluminium spells out the performance and maintenance differences.

When it’s time to call a window expert

Some jobs just aren’t worth guessing. If you’ve got:

  • Condensation between panes
  • Warped frames or stubborn handles
  • Locks that won’t engage
  • Discoloured frames you can’t clean

...get a professional to take a look. Most of the time, it’s a quick fix. And you’ll save money by sorting it early.

Final maintenance tips (no fluff, just habits that work)

Here’s what I do:

  • Every quarter: Clean frames and tracks
  • Every 6 months: Lubricate moving parts
  • Once a year: Check seals and get any issues sorted
  • Every few years: Book a pro for a full check, especially before selling

The real trick? Don’t wait for something to break. Treat it like any other part of the house—small checkups beat major repairs.

UPVC might be low-maintenance, but it’s still an investment. A little effort now gives you years of trouble-free use later.