In Malaysia, doors and windows are among the most crucial infrastructures in households, not only influencing the comfort of the living environment but also relating to home safety and energy efficiency. Due to Malaysia’s unique climatic conditions (high temperature, high humidity, and heavy rainfall), the maintenance and upkeep of doors and windows are particularly important. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of doors and windows, enhance their functionality, and maintain the aesthetic appearance of the home. This article will provide you with a detailed guide on the maintenance of doors and windows, helping you better care for your doors and windows.
1. The importance of door and window maintenance
As the first line of defense for a home, doors and windows are constantly exposed to external climate, dust, and air pollution. If not maintained and cared for in a timely manner, doors and windows may suffer damage, functional decline, or aesthetic deterioration, potentially affecting indoor comfort and safety. In Malaysia, due to the high humidity climate, if doors and windows are not effectively maintained, wooden window frames may rot, aluminum alloy window frames may rust, and glass windows may accumulate moisture, affecting light transmittance. Therefore, regular maintenance can not only extend the lifespan of doors and windows but also maintain the comfort and safety of the home.
II. Common problems of doors and windows in Malaysia
Due to the high humidity climate in Malaysia, wooden window frames and wooden doors are often affected by moisture, resulting in decay, deformation, or mold growth. If wooden window frames are not maintained in a timely manner, they are prone to structural damage caused by moisture.
Oxidation and Corrosion of Aluminum Alloy Window Frames Although aluminum alloy exhibits strong corrosion resistance, prolonged exposure to salt and moisture in the humid environment of Malaysia may still lead to oxidation and corrosion of aluminum alloy window frames.
Condensation and stains on glass High humidity can lead to condensation on the surface of window glass, especially in the early morning or at night. This not only affects the aesthetics of the windows but may also result in the formation of stains or mold on the glass surface.
Aging and functional failure of sealing strips: Over time, the sealing strips of doors and windows may age, harden, or fall off, resulting in windows that are unable to effectively insulate against sound, heat, or water.
III. Key steps for maintaining doors and windows in Malaysia
Maintenance and care of wooden windows
Regular inspection: Check wooden window frames for cracks or signs of decay, and repair damaged parts in a timely manner.
Moisture-proof treatment: Apply a waterproof coating or wood protectant to the window frame to prevent moisture infiltration.
Mildew prevention: Regularly clean wooden window frames, using professional anti-mildew spray, to keep the wood dry and prevent mold growth.
Paint maintenance: Repaint the wooden windows every one to two years to protect them from moisture and sunlight.
Maintenance of aluminum alloy window frames
Regular cleaning: Clean aluminum alloy window frames using a neutral detergent, and avoid using acidic or alkaline detergents to prevent corrosion.
Prevent oxidation: Apply an antioxidant or a specialized aluminum alloy care agent to slow down the oxidation process of the aluminum alloy surface.
Check the sealing strip: Regularly inspect the sealing strip of the window frame to ensure it is not damaged or aged. If the sealing strip is aged, it should be replaced promptly.
Maintenance and cleaning of glass windows
Cleaning glass: Regularly use glass cleaner to clean the glass surface, removing water stains, dust, and dirt. Avoid using rough cleaning cloths to prevent scratching the glass surface.
Prevent condensation: Condensation on glass windows is a common issue in high-humidity climates. Regularly clean the moisture around the windows to avoid water droplets accumulating on the glass surface.
Check the sealing: Check the sealing of the glass window to ensure that there is no gap between the window frame and the glass, so as to prevent moisture and dust from entering.
Inspection and replacement of sealing strips
Check the sealing strips: Regularly inspect the sealing strips of doors and windows to ensure they are not damaged, loose, or aged. If the sealing strips are damaged, they should be replaced promptly.
Clean the sealing strip: Use a soft cloth to clean the sealing strip, removing any attached dust and dirt to prevent the sealing strip from aging and losing its effectiveness.
IV. How to deal with the impact of Malaysia’s humid climate on doors and windows?
Maintain indoor air circulation. The high humidity climate in Malaysia can easily lead to excessive moisture indoors. Doors and windows should be opened regularly to maintain indoor ventilation and reduce the accumulation of moisture. Especially during the rainy season, opening windows and doors for ventilation at appropriate times can effectively prevent window and door frames from becoming moldy or decaying.
Using moisture-proof equipment, such as a dehumidifier or air purifier, can help maintain dry indoor air and reduce the impact of moisture on doors and windows. Especially when there are wooden doors and windows in the home, maintaining a suitable humidity level is crucial to prevent the decay of wooden windows.
Regularly check the sealing of window frames and glass. Due to the high rainfall in Malaysia, the sealing of window frames is crucial. Check the sealing condition of window frames and glass annually to ensure there is no water leakage. If the sealing strips are found to be deteriorated, they should be replaced promptly.
