Black uPVC Windows: Problems and Upkeep

Do you plan to add a pop of colour to your house by changing the shade of your windows? Many people are moving away from the traditional white uPVC frames and switch to other off-white colours, darker shades of grey, anthracite or even black. Having non-white uPVC frames and sills comes its own set of problems and in some cases it may double the upkeep responsibilities.

If you want to:

• to be able to make an informed decision about purchasing and maintaining black and anthracite uPVC windows;
• learn more about the most common black uPVC problems;
• know how to look after coloured frames and sills;

This article is for you!

Can You Change the Colour of uPVC Window Frames?

There are generally two options for altering the hue of the frames and sills in your home: removing the white vinyl joinery and installing a coloured one, or spray painting the old joinery with the hue you desire. The main difference between the two choices is the price. So, which is more expensive?

Naturally, installing new coloured joinery would take a greater toll on your wallet. Manufacturers mass produce white PVC, whereas the production of dark vinyl is dictated by existing demand. Thus, adding a hue to the PVC components during the manufacturing process increases the final price of the joinery because the price of the dyeing agents is also included.

A cheaper alternative is to have your frames and sills painted with a special uPVC spray. The final result is not much different from having new coloured joinery installed. The only downside of this option is that you may need to take some time off from work to paint everything yourself or hire someone to help out.

If you’re concerned about the general aesthetic of your home and whether dark-coloured uPVC would fit it, you have nothing to worry about! There is a wide variety of darker shades and all of them bring a classic look to brick and stone houses alike. So, you don’t have to settle for black uPVC, which sometimes can be in stark contrast with the walls of your home depending on their colour. If this is the case, anthracite grey windows are just the windows for you – they are almost black in colour, but have a softer look. As for the internal windows, you can always request a dual-colour uPVC windows – darker on the outside, white on the inside. The possibilities are endless!

Does Black Upvc Fade?

Probably one of the more common concerns regarding black upvc doors and windows is whether the colour fades. The short answer is yes, but it does so over the span of 10-15 years.

As with any other product, constant usage and poor maintenance will lead to discolouration. When it comes to dyed goods, any wear and tear is much more visible because of the striking contrast in hues between the blemished and non-damaged . That’s why you need to take proper care of your windows and doors, regardless of the colour.

• Climate: Weather conditions can significantly speed up the discolouration process. If you live near the seaside the level of air humidity and salt deposits can corrode the protective coating of the window frames, doors, handles and even the insulation seals. Sunlight can also lighten the original shade of the uPVC over time.
• Cleaning: Window washing should always be done with non-abrasive tools and detergents. Otherwise you risk visible scratches and discoloured blotches on the window treatments.
• Maintenance: It goes without saying that routine cleaning and inspection are a must. We always recommend a thorough wash of your windows at least twice a year – in the spring and in the autumn. Skylights are more susceptible to climate damage than any other type of windows, so learning how to properly upkeep your skylight will help you avoid potential water leaks, structural damage and draftiness.

How Do You Clean Black uPVC?

The process is very similar to the techniques you would usually use to wash laminated windows because they also require great care when cleaned. That’s why you need to avoid the following equipment and materials:

• Scourers, razor blades, wire wool, metal scrapers, scouring pads, etc.;
• Powder-based washing supplies, such as baking powder) or abrasive cream detergents, such as Cif(Jif);
• Bleach, ammonia, nail varnish, methylated spirits or cleaning solutions, which contain Hydrofluoric (HF) or Phosphoric acid (H3PO4);
• Coloured synthetic cloths;
• Cellulose thinners, white spirits and WD40.

When in doubt, always check the manufacturer’s manual!

Tools and Supplies

Now that you know what to avoid, here is what you will need:

Cleaning Black uPVC and Anthracite Windows

Here is our short and foolproof way to wash dark vinyl windows and doors without damaging them:

1. Lay down the oilcloth to ensure the cleaning solution does not leak onto the floor;
2. Arrange the old towels on the window sill to soak up the excess detergent and grime;
3. Vacuum the frames, around the hinges and opening mechanisms to remove any cobwebs and large dust particles.
4. Pour 1 cup of vinegar into an empty spray bottle and add 4 cups of hot water;
5. Spritz the DIY window cleaning solution on the frames and leave it for 15 minutes to break down the stubborn dirt;
6. Wipe off the dust and any excess detergent from the glass panel with a microfibre cloths;
7. Apply car wax or uPVC cleaner to buff the frames.

That’s it! You can also check our article on how to clean uPVC window frames and sills, if you want to learn how to rejuvenate vinyl frames or deal with any mould issues.

Hire a Professional

If you aren’t sure how to clean your coloured window frames and sills, give us a call or use the online chat option to request professional help. Fantastic Services offers insured window cleaning service provided by vetted and fully-trained teams. The technicians use natural chemical-free washing methods, which will preserve the shiny finish of your windows, while making them sparkling and streak-free.

Takeaways

• There are two choices for non-white uPVC: installing coloured joinery or spray painting;
• Black uPVC does fade over the span of 10-15 years;
• Proper maintenance and regular cleaning prolongs the life of the windows;
• Don’t apply harsh chemicals, which may discolour the frames and sills;
• Always use non-abrasive tools to remove stubborn grime.

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Image source: Shutterstock / Ron Zmiri

Posted in Cleaning Guides, Window Cleaning Tips