🧽 The Complete Aluminium Maintenance Guide

5-minute read

One of the biggest advantages of aluminium windows and doors is how little maintenance they require. Unlike timber, aluminium doesn’t rot, warp or need regular painting, making it an excellent long-term investment for homes and businesses.

However, like any quality product, aluminium performs best when it is looked after. A little maintenance every few months can help keep your windows, doors and glass looking great and operating smoothly for many years.

At Zammit Aluminium Ltd, we’ve been manufacturing and installing aluminium products across Malta and Gozo for over 46 years. In this guide, we’ll share some simple maintenance tips that anyone can follow—no specialist tools or experience required.

Why Maintenance Matters

Although aluminium is extremely durable, it is constantly exposed to the weather.

Dust, rain, salt from the sea, pollution and everyday use can all affect how your windows and doors look and perform over time.

Regular maintenance helps to:

Keep aluminium looking like new
Ensure doors and windows open and close smoothly
Extend the lifespan of moving parts
Prevent unnecessary wear and tear
Reduce the need for costly repairs

The good news is that maintaining aluminium products only takes a few minutes and can make a big difference.

Clean the Frames Regularly

The easiest way to maintain your aluminium is by cleaning the frames every few months.

Use:

Warm water
A mild soap or detergent
A soft cloth or sponge

Gently wipe away dust, dirt and marks before rinsing with clean water and drying with a soft cloth.

Avoid allowing dirt to build up over long periods, especially in coastal areas where salt can accumulate more quickly.

Keep the Glass Clean

Clean glass not only improves the appearance of your home but also allows more natural light inside.

Use a quality glass cleaner or a mixture of warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.

A microfibre cloth or rubber squeegee will help leave a streak-free finish.

Avoid cleaning glass in direct sunlight, as the cleaner may dry too quickly and leave marks.

Look After Sliding Tracks

Sliding doors and windows work best when their tracks are clean.

Over time, dust, sand, leaves and small stones can collect inside the track and affect how smoothly the door moves.

Every few weeks:

Remove loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner or soft brush.
Wipe the track with a damp cloth.
Make sure the drainage holes remain clear.

Keeping the tracks clean reduces wear on the rollers and helps your doors slide more easily.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Locks, hinges, rollers and handles all benefit from occasional lubrication.

A silicone-based lubricant is usually the best choice because it helps moving parts operate smoothly without attracting excessive dust.

Apply a small amount to:

Hinges
Locks
Rollers
Handles

Operate the window or door a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

Avoid using heavy grease or oil, as these can attract dirt over time.

Check Rubber Seals and Gaskets

The rubber seals around your windows and doors help keep out wind, rain and dust.

From time to time, inspect them for:

Cracks
Tears
Signs of wear
Areas that have become loose

If you notice any damage, it’s best to have the seals replaced before water or air begins entering your home.

Good seals also help improve energy efficiency.

Keep Drainage Holes Clear

Most aluminium windows and doors include small drainage holes at the bottom of the frame.

These allow rainwater to drain safely away.

If these holes become blocked by dirt or leaves, water may not drain properly.

Check them occasionally and remove any debris using a soft brush or a small plastic tool.

Living Near the Sea?

Many homes in Malta and Gozo are located close to the coast.

Sea air contains salt, which can build up on aluminium frames and glass over time.

If your property is near the sea, we recommend cleaning your aluminium products more frequently—approximately once a month—to remove salt deposits before they accumulate.

Regular rinsing with fresh water is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your investment.

What Should You Avoid?

Although aluminium is very durable, certain products can damage its protective finish.

Avoid using:

Abrasive cleaning pads
Steel wool
Strong acids
Bleach
Harsh chemical cleaners
Pressure washers at very close range

These products can scratch or damage the surface and reduce the appearance of your aluminium.

Always use gentle cleaning products designed for household use.

When Should You Call a Professional?

Most maintenance can be carried out yourself.

However, if you notice any of the following, it’s worth contacting a professional:

Doors no longer slide smoothly
Windows are difficult to open or close
Locks are not operating correctly
Water leaks during heavy rain
Damaged glass
Worn seals or rollers

Addressing small issues early can often prevent more expensive repairs later.

Expert Advice from Zammit Aluminium Ltd

One of the questions we’re often asked is, “How long will my aluminium windows and doors last?”

The answer depends largely on how well they are maintained.

Fortunately, aluminium is one of the lowest-maintenance building materials available. With regular cleaning, occasional lubrication and simple inspections, quality aluminium systems can continue performing and looking excellent for many years.

In our experience, a few minutes of maintenance every couple of months is all that’s needed to protect your investment and keep everything operating as it should.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my aluminium windows and doors?

For most homes, cleaning every two to three months is sufficient. If you live near the coast, monthly cleaning is recommended to remove salt deposits.

Can I use a pressure washer?

We recommend avoiding high-pressure cleaning close to the frames, seals and glass, as it may cause damage or force water into areas where it shouldn’t enter.

What’s the best lubricant?

A silicone-based lubricant is generally the best option for locks, hinges and rollers.

Does aluminium need repainting?

No. Quality powder-coated aluminium is designed to maintain its finish for many years without requiring repainting.

Can scratched aluminium be repaired?

Minor marks can sometimes be improved, but deeper scratches should be assessed by a professional to determine the best solution.

Final Thoughts

Aluminium is designed to provide years of reliable performance with very little maintenance. By following a few simple steps—cleaning the frames and glass, keeping tracks free from debris, lubricating moving parts and checking seals—you can help ensure your windows and doors continue to perform at their best.

At Zammit Aluminium Ltd, we believe that quality doesn’t end with installation. We’re committed to helping our customers protect their investment long after the project is complete.

If you have any questions about maintaining your aluminium products or would like advice on servicing, repairs or upgrades, our experienced team is always happy to help. With over 46 years of craftsmanship, we’re here to ensure your aluminium and glass solutions continue to look and perform their best for years to come.

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Our team is here to guide you with professional advice and a free quotation tailored to your project.

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