You can randomly inspect the hardware of window frames for defects and proper functioning. If minor defects are found in the hardware, we recommend performing minor maintenance. Where necessary, parts can be replaced or retrofitted. Read our blog about quality marks for hardware here.
Window frames can be inspected, particularly at the bottom, for defects and wood rot. In many cases, wood rot is related to improper installation, inadequate drainage, or rising damp. As you can see in the photos posted here, the causes are numerous, and often unintentional and unconscious causes are created. The drainage of a window frame at the bottom is one of the most common causes of wood rot in window frames.
If sliding windows are present, extra attention must be paid to their proper functioning. Below are some potential defects we frequently encounter and which we must describe in our building inspection report :
Plastic window frames may be covered with a film, which can become partially or completely detached due to various circumstances. To prevent further detachment, it's important to repair the defects. If the damage is minor, you can try to fix it yourself with a special repair kit for plastic window frames. There are specialized companies for the maintenance and repair of plastic window frames, discolored, or detached film. Costs are difficult to estimate, and repair work is usually carried out on a time-and-materials basis.
The rubber seals along the glazing and rotating parts can be inspected for quality and function. A risk with such rubber seals is the drying out of the materials, so proper maintenance is essential! If dried-out or cracked rubber seals are present, immediate maintenance is recommended. If necessary, parts can be replaced, after which the entire system will function properly again.
You can generally and periodically inspect your window frames for maintenance and dirt. If the frames haven't been optimally maintained and dirt has already corroded the finish, this will naturally negatively impact the lifespan of the finish, frame components, and the frames themselves. We still recommend immediate and regular maintenance of your frames.
If the frames are well maintained and cleaned regularly: This is positive for the lifespan of the finish, frame components and the frames themselves.
Maintenance is also important for steel window frames, including whether they are thermally broken or not. If the steel in the often older steel frames is not thermally broken, this negatively impacts the home's energy consumption and the quality of life. The steel you see inside is the same steel as the one outside and is not (thermally) broken, meaning the cold iron directly transmits the cold to the inside and vice versa. Maintaining steel window frames is labor-intensive, especially if the profiles rust and the material is nearing the end of its lifespan. This process of rusting and decay will be virtually impossible to prevent, making maintenance very labor-intensive and therefore very expensive.
If the outdated steel frames actually need replacing: Replacing them with new steel frames is very expensive. After careful consideration, you might decide to choose a different material, such as aluminum, wood, or uPVC.
If the sliding door is no longer functioning properly, repairs are usually not easy. A specialist will often be needed. The door will likely have to be dismantled. Only then can we determine whether repairs and maintenance are still possible.
The cost of a building inspection (up to 250 m²) is only €489 including VAT. We'll conduct a comprehensive building inspection and you'll receive a building report. Do you have any questions? We're happy to help and can schedule an appointment with an expert inspector right away if you wish!
