Use a cleaning solution, either a commercially available glass cleaner such as Windex™ or Sparkle™, or make your own cleaner with a 10% vinegar and 90% water solution. Use the cleaning solution generously and wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth or a paper towel.
To remove grease or sealant use mineral spirits sparingly and then wash with the cleaning solution.
For stubborn materials, such as grease, tape adhesives, crayons, paint or marks from plastic, with a wet cloth apply a small amount of mild abrasive cleaner such as Soft Scrub or Bar Keepers Friend. For very tough stains use a dry cloth to apply a solvent such as acetone or mineral spirits and rub the stained area; then dry with a soft cloth and clean with a cleaning solution.
Never use razor blades to scrape off stubborn materials. Hard metal cleaning tools may leave permanent scratches
Cleaning Exterior Aluminum Cladding.
Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft, lint-free cloth or paper towel. Never use abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads. For stubborn stains, mineral spirits may be used.
If the cladding becomes dull, an automotive type cleaner and wax may be used to restore the shine. If touch-up paint is needed, talk to your Caswell representative and they can supply it.
Cleaning Window Screens.
Remove the screen from the window and either vacuum with a drapery brush attachment or wash with a mild soap and water solution. Allow screens to dry before reinstalling.
Painting Window Interiors.
The wood may require light sanding before finishing. Use a 180-grit sandpaper and sand lightly. Never use steel wool because small steel fibers can break off, become lodged in the wood and cause discoloration and staining later. Paint the wood using a high quality latex primer first and then two coats of high quality interior latex paint.
Staining Window Interiors.
First, apply a good quality prestain wood-conditioner; this will prevent a blotchy looking, uneven finish. Second, apply a good quality stain according to the manufacturers instructions. Then apply three coats of an exterior-grade polyurethane finish.
Painting Aluminum Clad Window Exteriors.
The aluminum cladding has a permanent finish and needs no painting.
Painting Wood Window Exteriors.
The window is furnished with a factory applied primer finish. This finish is not intended for long-term exposure so the window should be painted immediately after installation. Paint with two coats of a medium to high-gloss quality exterior latex paint.
Staining/Varnishing Wood Window Exteriors.
This is not recommended for wooden window exteriors.
Interior Condensation Problems This is caused by excessive humidity inside the house and can be corrected by reducing the home’s humidity level. Below are recommended humidity levels.Outside Temperature40°F to 20°F 19°F to 10°F 9°F to 0°F -1°F to -10°F -11°F to -20°F -21°F and belowMaximum Inside Humidity40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15%Exterior Condensation Problems. This is not a problem; it is caused by high outside humidity. Thermally efficient windows prevent heat from inside the home leaking to the outside and thus the outside windowpane is cold; this causes the condensation. |
Condensation Problems Between Windowpanes. This is caused by a leak in the insulated glass seal. Call your Caswell representative for assistance as the problem requires replacement of the insulating glass.Glass Breakage. Broken insulated glass and tempered glass panels require professional assistance. Call your Caswell representative for assistance. |