Picture doors and windows are the lowest-maintenance units you can own: with no hinges or locks, care comes down to clean glass, a clean frame, clear drainage and sound seals. Large glass shows every mark, so the right cleaning method matters most.
Maintenance schedule
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Clean glass | Monthly, or as needed |
| Wipe down frames | Every 3 months |
| Clear sill and drainage (weep) holes | Every 3 months, and before the rainy season |
| Inspect glazing seals and gaskets | Every 6 months |
| Inspect exterior sealant around the frame | Once a year |
Cleaning the glass
- Rinse or brush off loose dust and grit first, so it does not scratch the glass when you wipe.
- Wash with a non-abrasive glass cleaner, or a 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar.
- Work from top to bottom with a squeegee or microfiber cloth.
- Dry the edges so water does not sit against the seals.
For tall or wide panes, use a squeegee on an extension pole rather than a ladder where possible. Clean in the shade or on a cool day — direct sun dries cleaner into streaks.
Avoid: razor blades, scrapers, steel wool, abrasive pads, ammonia on tinted or coated glass, and pressure washers.
Cleaning the aluminum frame
- Brush or vacuum dust from the frame and sill.
- Wash with warm water and mild dish soap on a soft cloth.
- Rinse and dry.
- In coastal areas, rinse monthly to remove salt.
Do not use solvents, acidic cleaners or scouring powder; they can damage the powder-coat finish.
Seals and gaskets
- Check the rubber gaskets or sealant where the glass meets the frame. Look for cracks, shrinking or gaps.
- Check the exterior sealant between the frame and the wall each year, and reseal any cracked section with a sealant compatible with aluminum.
Drainage
Clear the weep holes along the bottom of the frame with a soft brush or pipe cleaner. With a large pane, a lot of rainwater runs down to the sill, so blocked drainage quickly leads to leaks.
Protecting large glass
- Keep furniture, grills and heaters at least a few inches away from the glass — uneven heat can stress it.
- Avoid taping signs or film directly to insulated glass unless the film is approved for it; some films can trap heat and cause stress cracks.
- For picture doors at floor level, consider a decal at eye height so people do not walk into the glass.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Streaks after cleaning | Cleaning in direct sun or dirty cloth | Clean in shade with a fresh microfiber cloth |
| Water on the inside sill | Blocked weep holes or failed exterior sealant | Clear the weep holes; reseal the outside |
| Fog or moisture between panes | Failed insulated glass seal | Contact us — this may be covered by warranty |
| Crack or chip in the glass | Impact or thermal stress | Contact us for glass replacement; do not press on it |
| Draft around the frame | Gap in interior foam or exterior sealant | Reseal; call us if it continues |
