Maintenance
Doorglass
How to minimize condensation
Conditions that cause condensation are present in all households. Condensation is caused by day-by-day activities such as showers, baths, cooking and laundry. Also, the evaporation of anything containing water (wood, wet clothing drying inside, fresh paint...) and outside temperature (rain, humidity) can cause condensation.
In order to minimize condensation, it is NECESSARY to respect these simple rules:
- Ventilate the house by opening windows for a brief period every day.
- Open curtains to allow circulation of air around the window.
- Bathrooms should be well ventilated and the doors should be closed when the bath tub or shower is in use.
- Always use the kitchen fan when cooking.
- Follow CMHC recommendations concerning the use of a humidifier.
- All rooms, even if unoccupied, should be heated to a minimum of 10 degrees C.
- Humidity level in the home should be balanced with outdoor temperature. ( see humidity balance table below)
Recommended humidity with inside temperature of 20 degrees C relative to outside air temperature degree C
| Outdoor temperature in degrees Celsius | Relative humidity level recommended indoors |
| -30 degrees Celsius or less | Not more than 15% |
| -30 to -24 degrees Celsius | Not more than 20% |
| -24 to -18 degrees Celsius | Not more than 25% |
| -18 to -12 degrees Celsius | Not more than 30% |
| -12 to -6 degrees Celsius | Not more than 35% |
| -6 to 0 degrees Celsius | Not more than 40% |
Venting units
Practical advice
If the venting unit does not slide up and down easily, apply a silicone based lubricant on the moving part of the vent.
Installing a screen in a venting unit :
To remove the screen
- Pull back on the left plastic screen clip and hold.
- Slide screen towards the left plastic clip.
- Remove screen by pushing out right side of screen.
To install the screen (from the outside of the house)
- Fit the screen into the left track.
- Slide the screen to the left.
- Push in on the 2 right corners for a snug fit.
Raise/lower mini-blinds : to facilitate the gliding of the mechanism, use a silicone-based lubricant.
PVC maintenance : Practical advice
Clean surfaces using a soft cloth with mild soap diluted in warm water. You can also use any special cleaner designed for use on PVC windows and doors. Do not use abrasives, solvents or petroleum-based products. These products could cause permanent damage to the vinyl and aluminum surfaces and if used will void all warranties.
Painting PVC : Practical advice
Special products that can be used to paint PVC are on the market. We recommend that you seek the advice of a paint dealer to make sure the product you use is appropriate for the finish. Before applying any product, carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions for that product. Also, carefully read the instruction label that was attached to the door when delivered. These instructions specify conditions for cleaning, painting and maintenance and must be followed carefully for the warranty to remain valid.
Imagine PVC gliding door
Practical advice
Operating the gliding door
In order for the panel to glide more easily use a silicone lubricant. Apply the lubricant onto a cloth and then wipe it along the weather-stripping. (Do not use oil-based lubricants, as they will attract dust). The locks and rollers do not normally need lubricants. If you wish to lubricate them, check with your building supply retailer for recommended lubricants.
If the door does not glide smoothly
There are two possibilities:
- The track the door slides on may have debris on it, causing it to drag. Simply clean the track below the sliding panel with a vacuum or a wet cloth.
- The rollers need to be raised to clear the track. Adjust the rollers up or down with a screw driver to make sure the edge of the movable door is parallel to the side of the door frame.
If the screen does not glide properly
Apply a thin layer of paraffin (or other dry lubricant) to the track if necessary. Oily lubricants are not recommended since they attract dust and grime, which will eventually restrict the door's movement.
