Our bifold doors/windows are constructed from commercial/architectural grade aluminium and high quality stainless steel hardware, making them highly resistant to corrosion and exceptionally strong. As with all external elements on a building though some maintenance is required to keep the doors/windowslooking good and performing well. Below are our care and maintenance instructions.
External aluminium surface - Your bifold should only be washed down with a soft bristled brush using warm water and mild detergent. Rinse well with fresh water and remove any detergent residue. Care should be taken to avoid excessive amounts of water entering the roller and locking system. Strong detergents and abrasive cleaners should never be used to clean your bifold as they may scratch or damage the surface finish.
Track and bearings – Using a spatula or similar (not your finger) apply a small amount, typically a ¼ teaspoon, of white petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or similar lubricant to the inner lip of each side of the track. Ensure the wheels pass through the lubricant and it is distributed evenly along the track. Put additional lubricant around the bearings again using a spatula. Lubricant reduces the wear, improves smooth operation and further protects against corrosion of the track and bearings.
Hangers, pivots and brackets – A light spray application of a corrosive preventative such as Inox, followed by a light wipe with a dry cloth to remove excess is recommended. Exposed surfaces should first be wiped down with warm soapy water and soft rag and then rinsed clean before applying the preventative.
Hinges – Wipe down the visible surfaces with warm soapy water on a soft rag and then rinse off by wiping with a clean damp rag. Application of a thin film of light machine oil or Inox will help to maintain the original luster of the metal finish.
Flush bolts – Spray application of a suitable lubricant such as Inox to the sliding pin inside the bolt and graphite powder to the lock cylinder is recommended. There are access holes and slots on all flushbolts products so that this can be done without removing the lock from the screen.
Handle lock - Periodic lubrication of the lock and auxiliary lock components should only ever be carried out using graphite powder. Liquid or aerosol lubricants can cause corrosion and damage to the locking mechanism.
Suggested maintenance interval:
1. Six monthly for mild environments described as being rural, away from the coast and remote from industry and urban activity.
2. Three monthly for moderate environments described as being mainly urban, inland and away from heavy industry.
3. Monthly for tropical / severe environments described as being coastal/marine, subject to salt deposition and within 15km of the Eastern coast of Australia.