Journal

Aluminum Window Maintenance: What and When.

Aluminum windows need much less maintenance than wood or steel because the frame does not rot, rust, or absorb water. What does need attention: perimeter gaskets, hardware lubrication, glass and frame cleaning, and an IGU check at the 20-year mark. The frame itself needs nothing the whole time. Here is the realistic schedule.

Updated May 31, 2026

Annual and as-needed.

Clean glass and frame surfaces twice a year with mild soap and water. Do not use abrasive pads or solvent-based cleaners on coated frames; both can damage the finish. Check perimeter gaskets visually for cracking, hardening, or pulling away from the corners.

Lubricate operating hardware (hinges, locks, friction stays) every two years with a non-staining silicone or PTFE lubricant. Avoid WD-40; the carrier dries and leaves the lubricant gummy.

Long-term checkpoints.

Year 15 to 25: perimeter gaskets reach end of service. Replace them to maintain weather seal. The replacement is straightforward and typically billable as a service call, not a major job.

Year 20 to 25: check the IGU for fogging between panes. If you can see condensation between the glass layers, the IGU seal has failed and the unit needs replacement. The frame stays in place; only the glass unit is swapped.

Year 30 to 40: PVDF (AAMA 2605) finish reaches the limit of its rated UV performance. Powder coat (AAMA 2603) reaches it sooner. At this point the visible finish may show chalking under continuous sun exposure; refinishing is possible but most projects opt for full window replacement at this milestone.

Common questions.

Do aluminum windows need painting?
No. The factory finish (powder coat or PVDF) is bonded to the aluminum and does not need painting. Refinishing is possible at the 30 to 40 year mark if the original coating chalks, but it is not part of routine maintenance.
How do I clean coated aluminum frames?
Mild soap and water with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads, scouring powders, or solvent-based cleaners; all three can damage the powder coat or PVDF finish. Rinse with clean water and dry to prevent water spots.
How often should I lubricate the hardware?
Every two years for residential use, every year for high-cycle commercial. Use silicone or PTFE lubricant, not WD-40 or oil-based products that leave residue.

Project in motion

Long-term build?

We spec AAMA 2605 PVDF finish as standard for the longest finish life on the market.

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