uPVC windows are popular throughout London and the UK because they offer excellent durability, thermal performance and relatively low maintenance. However, like any window system, uPVC frames can accumulate dirt, grease, adhesive residue, pencil marks and other contaminants over time.
This can be particularly noticeable on white uPVC windows, coloured or woodgrain-effect foil finishes, and newly installed windows where protective-film adhesive or installation residue may remain around the frames.
At KP Glass & Glazing, we believe that the finishing touches matter. Whether we are installing replacement windows, doors or bespoke glazing, achieving a clean, professional finish is an important part of the installation process.
For more information about our window and door services, visit our Windows & Doors page.
Regular cleaning does more than simply improve the appearance of your windows.
Keeping uPVC frames clean can help maintain the appearance of:
Dirt and grease can become increasingly difficult to remove if they are allowed to build up over a long period.
For homeowners who have recently invested in replacement uPVC windows, regular and appropriate cleaning can also help maintain the appearance of the new installation.
Depending on the type of contamination and the surface finish, specialist uPVC cleaners can be useful for removing:
Soudal’s Foil Safe Spray Cleaner is specifically formulated for this type of application and is described as a fast-acting, non-abrasive cleaner suitable for sensitive surfaces and many foil-laminated or lacquered finishes.
Not every household cleaning product is suitable for uPVC window frames.
Some aggressive solvents or abrasive cleaning products can potentially affect delicate finishes, particularly when used incorrectly.
For foil-wrapped uPVC, coloured frames and sensitive surfaces, it is therefore important to choose a product specifically designed for the material.
Soudal Foil Safe Spray Cleaner – 750ml
The Soudal Foil Safe Spray Cleaner shown above is designed for cleaning:
uPVC + Foil-Wrapped uPVC + Aluminium Window & Door Frames
According to Soudal, the product is:
Buy Soudal Foil Safe Spray Cleaner
Buy Soudal Foil Safe Spray Cleaner 750ml from KP Glazing
For general maintenance, start with a clean, soft cloth and remove loose dirt from the frame.
For more stubborn contamination, a specialist cleaner can be used.
Step 1 – Remove loose dirt
Use a soft cloth to remove dust and loose particles from the uPVC frame.
Avoid using anything abrasive that could scratch the surface.
Step 2 – Apply the cleaner
Apply the specialist cleaner to a clean, soft, colourfast cloth or directly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Soudal recommends shaking the aerosol well and keeping the can upright during application.
Step 3 – Allow it to work
For more stubborn contamination, allow the cleaner to remain on the surface for a few minutes.
Step 4 – Wipe the contamination away
Use the cloth to gently remove the dirt, marks or residue.
Step 5 – Polish the surface
Use a second clean, dry cloth to finish the surface.
Soudal recommends working with clean cloths and wiping in one direction to achieve the best result.
Step 6 – Test first
Always test a small, inconspicuous area before cleaning the entire frame.
This is particularly important with coloured, laminated, foil-wrapped or lacquered window finishes.
One of the most common problems following the installation of new windows is adhesive or protective-film residue.
New uPVC windows can have protective films applied during manufacturing and transportation. Once the film has been removed, adhesive residue can sometimes remain around the frame.
Rather than aggressively scraping the surface, a suitable specialist cleaner can help dissolve and remove the residue.
Soudal lists adhesive residue, protective-film adhesive, pencil and pen marks, rubber residues and other installation contaminants among the applications for its Foil Safe Spray Cleaner.
This is where extra care is required.
Modern uPVC windows are available in a huge range of colours and finishes, including:
A cleaner that is suitable for one surface should not automatically be assumed to be suitable for another.
A foil-safe, non-abrasive product is therefore particularly useful where you are dealing with decorative or laminated surfaces.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test the product first. Soudal specifically recommends testing for adverse effects before use.
Professional uPVC Window Installation in London
Cleaning is only one part of achieving a high-quality window installation.
The quality of the survey, specification, manufacture, glazing and installation all contribute to the final result.
At KP Glass & Glazing, we supply and install bespoke windows and doors for homeowners and property projects across London and surrounding areas.
Our window and door solutions include:
uPVC windows • Aluminium windows • Replacement windows • Patio doors • Sliding doors • External doors • Bespoke glazing
Our approach is based around made-to-measure solutions, professional surveying and installation, with options designed around the property and the client’s requirements.
We have also completed projects such as our Bromley Windows & Door Replacement, where replacement windows and a new entrance door were used to create a more contemporary and cohesive exterior.
If your existing windows are difficult to clean, showing signs of deterioration, poorly sealed or simply looking dated, cleaning may not always be the answer.
A professional assessment can help determine whether your windows need:
Cleaning → Repairs → Glass replacement → Hardware replacement → Complete window replacement
KP Glass & Glazing provides bespoke window and door solutions across London and surrounding areas, including Chelsea, Kensington, Fulham, Richmond, Wimbledon, Wandsworth, Bromley and surrounding areas.
Need new windows?
View KP Glass & Glazing Windows & Doors
Or contact our team for a no-obligation quotation.
KP Glass & Glazing
London & Crawley
020 8656 5709
info@kpglazing.co.uk
Keep Your uPVC Windows Looking Their Best
Good-quality windows are an investment, and keeping the frames clean helps maintain the appearance of your property.
For stubborn dirt, adhesive residue and installation marks, using a purpose-designed, non-abrasive uPVC and foil-safe cleaner is preferable to experimenting with aggressive household chemicals.
