Calendar summer is behind us. The days are quickly getting shorter and, unfortunately, colder. We change our wardrobe, stock up on umbrellas, and soon we will start thinking about winter tyres for the car. Yet we often forget about one of the most important elements protecting our home from the autumn weather – the windows. Strong gusts of wind and temperatures barely exceeding 10 degrees make us quickly forget the summer heat. You can think of many ways to ensure blissful warmth at home, but the simplest and most sensible step is to check the quality of our joinery. It directly affects our comfort and heating bills when gales rage outside. Why is maintenance before winter so important? It is worth looking at your windows before the real cold arrives, if only to prevent irritating draughts and costly heat escape from your home. Window maintenance is not a complicated process, yet it is the absolute basis of annual home preparation. Four key elements deserve particular attention: Perimeter fittings: the heart of the opening and closing mechanism. Seals: the barrier that stops wind and moisture. Frames: we check them for any damage and discolouration. Glazing units: inspection for micro-cracks. These procedures will not take much of your time, and will certainly save you a lot of trouble in the middle of a frosty winter. Regular use of appropriate cleaning agents, lubricating the hinges and caring for the seals can significantly extend the lifespan of your windows. Adjusting the fittings – do it wisely Every new window leaving the factory has properly adjusted fittings, and the necessary final corrections are made by the installation team during fitting. While in the initial period of use windows generally do not require intervention, over the years even correctly used sashes may slightly "settle" and require minor pressure adjustment. "Remember: incorrect, self-made adjustment done 'by force' can lead to permanent damage of the fittings. If you have no experience, leave this task to professionals." This applies even to the most advanced window and door systems. You should systematically check whether the fittings are firmly attached. All moving parts and closing points should be greased or oiled, using only products safe for anti-corrosion coatings. A good product is half the success. The other half is installation. Unfortunately, it is true that even the most advanced window will not fulfil its functions if it is installed badly. That is why it is so important to responsibly choose not only manufacturers, but also trusted distributors and proven installation teams. It is worth paying attention to the window parameters themselves. Manufacturers with many years of experience (such as DRUTEX S.A., whose products we proudly offer and install as VENA DACH) use profiles made from prime material, which guarantees excellent stability. They also equip them with EPDM seals, which are far more durable and flexible in frost than standard plastic (TPE) seals. Before signing off the work, make sure that: Each sash opens and closes without much force. The window is well levelled (it does not open or close by itself). The installation team has under no circumstances removed the support blocks (they should be made of impregnated hardwood or hard PVC). 5 Golden Rules for Caring for PVC Windows To enjoy the tightness and reliability of your joinery for many years, follow the rules below: No aggressive chemicals: Do not use scouring creams with granules, powders or solvents that cause scratches and dulling of the profiles. No painting: Do not paint PVC window frames with paints or varnishes, and do not apply additional protective layers. Quick reaction to building dirt: Remove mortar, rust or soot from frames and panes immediately. Clear drainage: In the lower part of the frame on the outside there are drainage holes. Under no circumstances seal or cover them! Lubrication: At least once a year (preferably in autumn) apply a little technical petroleum jelly to the moving parts of the lock. Take care of your windows, and they will take care of your wallet High-quality windows provide us with comfort, affect our health and protect our household budget. Energy-efficient solutions are an investment that quickly pays off. Trust proven manufacturers and experienced installation teams. Looking for professional DRUTEX joinery or expert advice in Gdynia and the surrounding area? Contact us!