Care & Maintenance

Stain-Fighting Solutions

For stains that prove to be more difficult to remove, use the readily available household cleaners listed in the following table. Be sure to closely follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each cleaner. SoftLite does not guarantee nor warrant the effectiveness of each individual product.

This list is based upon a study conducted by the Vinyl Window and Door Institute on the efficiency of popular cleaning agents and their effects on the appearance of vinyl windows and doors. Alternative products made by other manufacturers may or may not be as effective.

If you choose to use a mildly abrasive cleaner such as Soft Scrub with bleach, Ajax, Bon Ami, etc., please be aware that these abrasives may affect the appearance of glass and vinyl surfaces. Be sure to test the effects of these cleaners on a small, unseen portion of the window before proceeding.

DO NOT use cleaners containing aggressive organic solvents because they could affect the surface appearance of the vinyl. Examples of such cleaners include chlorine bleach, liquid grease remover, strong soaps and detergents containing organic solvents, nail polish remover, and furniture polish and cleaners.

How to Easily Maintain the Beauty of Your New SoftLite Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows and doors are virtually maintenance-free. However, as with any product exposed to atmospheric conditions, they will become dirty and require cleaning. In most cases, exterior dirt and grime will wash away during the next heavy rainstorm. However, with minimal effort, your vinyl windows and doors will retain their “brand new” look for years to come. These simple tips will help you keep your new SoftLite windows looking great for decades.

Always wash the frames and sashes with a soft cloth or an ordinary long-handled, soft-bristle brush.
To remove most common dirt and grime, use a solution of mild dish-washing detergent and warm water.
Rinse the window.
Do not wash windows with high-pressure sprays, guns, or hoses.

BE CAREFUL and use all common safety methods to minimize the risk of hazard.

NEVER lean out the windows to clean the exterior glass or window frame.

DO NOT depend on the window screen for support or retention. Screens will not prevent someone from falling out the window.

CAUTION! Most severe window accidents occur on the first floor of the home.

IF YOU FEEL Most severe window accidents occur on the first floor of the home.

DO NOT power wash or use a hose to clean exterior windows.

Double-Hung/Single-Hung Windows

To tilt in the bottom sash:

Be sure the window is unlocked.

Raise the window sash approximately 3”.
Grasp each side of the sash and use your index fingers to disengage the tilt latches.
Slowly lower the sash to a convenient cleaning level.
Clean the exterior surface (using glass cleaner and a soft cloth or paper towel). You will need to support the sash with a chair (or similar item) or have someone else hold the sash securely with both hands while you clean it.
Return the sash to its original position and be sure both tilt latches click into place.

To tilt in the top sash (double-hung windows only)

Tilt in the lower sash following the above instructions.
Support the lower sash by using a chair, stepladder, or some other stable support. Be sure to pad the support to prevent damage, and be sure the sash is supported by the sash frame. Do not support the sash by resting the glass on the support.
Pull upper sash down 4-6” inches above the lower sash.
Grasp each side of the sash and use your index fingers to disengage the tilt latches.
Slowly allow the sash to tilt in and lay it on top of the lower sash.
Clean the exterior surface (using glass cleaner and a soft cloth or paper towel) by supporting the sash with one hand and cleaning with the other.
Return the upper sash to its original position and be sure both tilt latches click into place.
Return the lower sash to its original position and be sure both tilt latches click into place.

Slider Windows

Unlock the locking mechanism on the sash.
Slide sash to its fully opened position.
Grasp sash on either side and lift it into the head of the window until the bottom of sash clears the sill.
Swing the bottom of the sash in toward the interior of the home to clear the frame and lower the sash out of the window frame.
Place sash on a soft, padded surface and clean the exterior glass surface with glass cleaner and a soft cloth or paper towel.
Replace sash into frame by repeating the above steps in reverse order.

Casement Windows

Unlock the window by lifting the lock mechanism on the side jamb.
Crank sash open to 90 degrees.
Reach between the sash and frame to clean the exterior glass surface, using glass cleaner and a soft cloth or paper towel.
Crank the window to its closed position.
Clean the interior glass surface.