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Repair and cleaning of Vinyl (PVC) Frame/Sash

The Durabuilt PVC frame and sash is quick and easily cleaned with warm water and normal domestic wash fluids. Isopropyl alcohol 99% can also be used to remove difficult substances that domestic washing fluids cannot remove such as grease and oil.

Abrasive or gritty agents should NOT be used under any circumstances because these agents will roughen and destroy the surface finish.

Particular solvents (Acetone, Cellulose thinner etc.) must be avoided; otherwise the smooth glossy surface will be lackluster and rough.

Under no circumstances should felt tip marker be used.

Before attempting glass replacement due to breakage or sealed unit failure, read this section and pertinent subsections to ensure thorough understanding of the requirements. Please consult a local glass shop if in doubt about the operation, the required thickness or dimensions of the replacement unit.


Glass Replacement

Sash Removal: Any operation sash should take off its sub-frame for glass removal and replacement. Picture windows require removal and replacement vertically while in the wall. Refer to the style-specific section for details on sash removal.

Deglazing: Wearing gloves and goggles when handling broken, cracked or damaged glass is highly recommended.

Removing Glazing Stop: Remove the longer stops first. Insert the tip of a putty knife or chisel into the seam between the stop and sash frame at the center. Tap the face of the blade firmly with plastic head mallet. Note: Take special care not to scratch or damage the stop or sash frame as they will be re-used.

Removing Damaged Glass: carefully lift out the broken or damaged glass unit. Remove wedging shims and keep for reuse during replacement. Scrape off excess caulking and clean thoroughly making sure the interior drain slots are kept unobstructed.

Replacing the Glass: confirm the correct height, width and thickness of the replacement unit (glass). Position the unit into the sash; replace wedging shims. Secure in place with a short bead of caulking. Refer to Durabuilt style-specific section for wedge replacement shims. Note: Do not block interior drain slots with wedge shims or caulk.

Replacing Glazing Stops: Install the shorter lengths first. Bow the glazing stop in the center and insert the ends into the sash. Starting at one corner, snap the stops into the sash by tapping firmly with a plastic head mallet.

Picture Window Glass Replacement: Replacing the glass in a picture window or fixed sash is more difficult because it must be done vertically in the wall. Generally the procedure for the operating glass is the same. It is highly recommended to contact a local glass shop to perform replacement in this style.

Important Note - Glazing Tape Application: After removing the glass, if you find the glazing tape that was originally applied, it is recommended consulting a competent glazier or local glass outfit for replacement.

Periodic Window: Remove the screen during the winter to allow better air circulation onto the glass surface. Doing so will reduce the amount of condensation build up on the window. Lubricate hardware (rollers and locks) with silicon spray or WD40. Remove sash and sill rack and clean any dirt or dust out. Pour approximately 1L of warm water into slider pocket to flush any dirt out of the drainage system.

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