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Window CondensationIce Damming

Cleaning Instructions

Get information on how to properly clean your Weather Tight products.

Sunrise, Restorations, & Essentials

It’s time to clean your windows and doors. If you have windows or sliding-glass doors that move on a track, you’ll want to clean the track with baking soda and vinegar. Put the baking soda on first, and then pour the vinegar over it. It’s best to clean the area with an old toothbrush or some Q-tips. Once the gunk has been wiped clean, pour water over the area and then dry it with paper towels.
And if you’re putting window and door screens in for the warmer months, wash them with water mixed with a cleaning solution, as they’re probably dirty from sitting in the basement or garage all winter.

Then, of course, there’s the windows themselves. Mix dishwashing liquid with warm water and then apply to the window surface with a sponge or cloth. Wipe the surface clean with a squeegee. You may need to cut the squeegee with a saw in order to fit the panes on your window. If you have different-sized windows in your home – as most people do – it may be best to buy multiple squeegees.

Cleaning Window Frames:
Dirt marks can be easily cleaned using most household cleaners

SoftLite Barrington

  • Most importantly, NEVER wash windows with high-pressure sprays, guns or hoses. This can void your warranty and cause leaks as non-impact windows are not built to withstand that pressure. To remove most common built-up grime, wiping your window frames with a solution of dish detergent and water is usually effective.
  • Always use a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush to clean sashes and frames. Using oil-based lubricants, bleach, aggressive solvents, or abrasive tools can damage your window’s components or void its warranty.
  • As for the glass, use your favorite glass cleaner and a soft cloth or paper towel for both the inside and outside of the window. Luckily, with many SoftLite windows, accessing the outside of your windows from inside the house is a breeze.
  • Be sure to check out the comprehensive Care and Maintenance guide on the resources page of our website for more detailed instructions for cleaning specific stains and the proper way to clean each type of window.
  • Regular cleaning and maintenance should keep your windows looking their best for years.
  • Another good tip is to keep your windows locked when they’re closed. Not only does this simple task help with air infiltration, it also keeps windows operating properly and your home secure.
  • Remember that all SoftLite windows come with an industry-leading warranty. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer service professionals if you have any questions on the care and maintenance of your 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.

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.

Great lakes

Never needs painting –To clean, Simply use soap and water. Other cleaners, including Turpentine or denatured alcohol, are also acceptable. For stubborn stains don’t hesitate to use a common household cleanser.

Cleaning Vinyl Windows: Just Add Water… and a bit of mild detergent! There’s no need for dry cloths, harsh detergents, abrasives, chemicals, or power washers to deal with dirt on your vinyl trim. In fact, those cleaning methods can damage the surface of the vinyl. And, because vinyl resists any penetrating stains and dirt, you don’t have to worry about scrubbing hard, anyway.

All you have to do is use warm water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth or sponge to wipe up any unwanted particles. Or try Mr. Clean Durafoam Magic Eraser for stubborn marks.

The same holds true for cleaning glass. Simply use water and mild soap, using light, circular motions and a soft cloth or sponge. Be sure to dry surfaces and frames after washing so you don’t have any pooling water to worry about!

Everlast

NORMAL ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

  • Wash using a soft bristle brush. Use only a soft bristle brush to avoid smearing the stain into the grooves of the texture. Clean gently to avoid surface abrasion. After cleaning, rinse area with water with a garden hose.
  • To wash an entire house, start at the bottom and work up to the top, then rinse back down from top to bottom in order to prevent streaking.
  • For difficult-to-remove dirt and stains such as top soil, motor oil, lithium grease, crayon, felt-tip pen, caulking, lipstick, grass, bubble gum, mold and mildew, use readily available household cleaners such as those included in the list below.
  • Most cleaners are inefficient in cleaning stains such as pencil, paint, oil and tar. In these cases, you may wish to use a mild abrasive cleaner, such as Soft Scrub®, Ajax®, Bon Ami®, etc., but the use of any abrasive material could have a negative effect on surface appearance and void this Warranty.
  • Do not use cleaners containing organic solvents or other aggressive ingredients because they could affect the surface appearance of the siding and void this Warranty. Examples of such cleaners are: chlorine bleach, liquid grease remover, strong soaps and detergents containing organic solvents, nail polish remover, paint remover, isopropyl alcohol and furniture polish/cleaners.
  • NOTE: Do not use a pressure washer.
  • NOTE: The chemical agents referenced above may be hazardous to the user or to the environment. Please follow all precautions and warnings on the product label, particularly those which may be necessary to prevent personal injury. Always dispose of these chemical agents in a manner prescribed by the manufacturer. If you are unsure how to use or how to properly dispose of these chemical agents, please contact the manufacturer of these products for instructions.

CLEANERS FOR STAIN REMOVAL ON EVERLAST® PRODUCTS STAIN CLEANERS
Bubble Gum: Fantastic® cleaner, Murphy’s Oil Soap®, solution of vinegar (30%) and water (70%), Windex®
Crayon: Lestoil®
Oil-Based Caulk: Fantastic®
Felt-tip Pen: Fantastic®, water-based cleaners
Grass: Fantastic®, Lysol®, Murphy’s Oil Soap®, Windex®
Lipstick: Fantastic®, Murphy’s Oil Soap®
Lithium Grease: Fantastic®, Lestoil®, Murphy’s Oil Soap®, Windex®
Mold & Mildew: Fantastic®, solution of vinegar (30%) and water (70%), Windex®
Motor Oil: Fantastic®, Lysol®, Murphy’s Oil Soap®, Windex®
Oil: Soft Scrub®
Paint: Soft Scrub®
Pencil: Soft Scrub®
Rust: Fantastic®, Murphy’s Oil Soap®, Windex®
Tar: Soft Scrub®
Top Soil: Fantastic®, Lestoil®, Murphy’s Oil Soap

Gentek

CARE AND CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
While Gentek vinyl siding is one of the most durable building products materials available today, it will, however, require occasional cleaning like any other product which is exposed to atmospheric conditions. If your Gentek siding should need to be cleaned, the following simple cleaning procedure should be scheduled annually or as often as conditions demand:
The cleaning solution should be applied to the soiled surface by means of a soft rag, sponge, or soft bristle brush with gentle rubbing action. A long-handled car washing brush is ideal for this purpose. Do not rub vigorously so as to create glossy areas over the satin finish of your siding. To avoid streaking, it is recommended that you start washing from the bottom and go to the top, rinsing frequently with fresh water from a garden hose.

  • Simple Cleaning—For surface soil or stains resulting from industrial fallout, tree sap, insecticides, or chimney fumes, the use of non-abrasive household detergent is recommended: 1/3 cup of household detergent (i.e., Tide) per gallon of water.
  • Stubborn Stains—For heavy atmospheric dirt and stubborn stains the following procedure should be used: 1/3 cup of household detergent (i.e., Tide), 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate (i.e., Soilax), 1 gallon of water.
  • Mildew Accumulation—In some locales, mildew may be a problem. It appears as black spots and is usually first detected in areas not subjected to rainfall, such as under eaves and porch enclosures. Mildew is easily removed by using the basic cleaning solutions for stubborn stains with addition of sodium hypochlorite: 1/3 cup of household detergent (i.e., Tide), 2/3 cup of trisodium phosphate (i.e., Soilax), 1 quart sodium hypochlorite 5% solution (i.e., Clorox), 3 quarts of water.
  • Tar, Caulking Compounds and Similar Oil Substances—Apply a small amount of mineral spirits directly to the substance. Rinse immediately with clean water.
    CAUTION: Do not exceed the recommended concentrations of cleaners, to do so may cause damage to the siding. Avoid skin and eye contact with cleaning solutions.

Diamond Kote®

PEACE OF MIND LOW MAINTENANCE-Diamond Kote® pre-finish is designed to be low maintenance, resisting the buildup of dirt and grime while locking out moisture. Being easy to clean, combined with a durable finish reduces overall maintenance.

Proline – Stone Siding

EFFLORESCENCE: Efflorescence is a whitish, powder-like deposit that sometimes appear on the surface of stone veneer. It may appear immediately or within a short time after installation. Efflorescence is a normal occurrence in cement based products. It is a natural reaction to hydration of concrete, thus is not covered under our warranty. Left alone, normal exposure to the elements will dissipate (often within months) efflorescence. However, if you wish to remove the efflorescence before it naturally wears off, we recommend using a mild mix of vinegar and water (1 part vinegar and 4 parts water) to wipe the efflorescence away. Do not use a wire brush or any caustic acid.

Norandex

NORMAL MAINTENANCE

  • Wash using a soft cloth or ordinary long-handled soft bristle brush. For textured surfaces, use only a soft bristle brush to avoid smearing the stain into the grooves of the texture. Clean gently to avoid surface abrasion. After cleaning, rinse area with water.
  • To wash an entire house, start at the bottom and work up to the top, then rinse back down from top to bottom in order to prevent streaking.
  • For difficult-to-remove dirt and stains such as top soil, motor oil, lithium grease, crayon, felt-tip pen, caulking, lipstick, grass, bubble gum, mold and mildew, use readily available household cleaners such as those included in the list below.
  • Most cleaners are inefficient in cleaning stains such as pencil, paint, oil and tar. In these cases, you may wish to use a mildly abrasive cleaner, such as Soft Scrub,® Ajax,® Bon Ami,® etc., but the use of any abrasive material could have a negative effect on surface appearance.
  • Do not use cleaners containing organic solvents or other aggressive ingredients because they could affect the surface appearance of the vinyl. Examples of such cleaners are: chlorine bleach, liquid grease remover, strong soaps and detergents containing organic solvents, nail polish remover, furniture polish/cleaners.
    NOTE: The chemical agents referenced below may be hazardous to the user or to the environment. Please follow all precautions and warnings on the product label, particularly those which may be necessary to prevent personal injury. Always dispose of these chemical agents in a manner prescribed by the manufacturer. If you are unsure how to use or how to properly dispose of these chemical agents, please contact the manufacturer of these products for instructions.

Variform

Your selection of Variform by Ply Gem (“Variform”) siding and/or Aluminum products to cover your most valuable investment should provide a beautiful appearance and long-lasting protection for your home. To keep your investment beautiful over the years, you should implement the following procedures at least annually for the major care of your Variform Siding and Aluminum Products:

  • General Cleaning. Use an ordinary garden hose to give your siding a light rinse working from the top down.
  • Moderate Atmospheric Dirt. We recommend at least an annual washing with clear water using a garden hose and soft-bristled brush. A long-handled car washing brush is ideal for this purpose.
  • Heavy Industrial Atmospheric Dirt. Wash in the manner indicated above, but use the following solution: 1/3 cup detergent (Tide, for example) 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate 1-gallon water
  • Mildew Accumulation. Mildew can collect on surfaces of all types of building products and is often evident on surfaces that have not been properly cared for and maintained. Normally, mildew will appear as black spots. Mildew can be removed by using the basic cleaning solution above with the addition of sodium hypochlorite as follows: 1/3 cup detergent (Tide, for example) 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate 1 quart sodium hypochlorite 5% solution (Clorox, for example) 3 quarts water.
  • Additionally for Aluminum Products. For caulking compounds, tar and similar substances use mineral spirits in reasonable amounts and apply directly to the foreign substance. Immediately after cleaning, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
  • CAUTION: Do not exceed the recommended concentrations of cleaners; to do so can cause damage to the products’ surface. Avoid skin and eye contact with the solution, and in all cases follow manufacturer’s instructions for the use of cleaning compounds and solutions. Avoid use of abrasive-type cleaners and strong solvents. Test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area before applying to major areas. To minimize streaking, always clean from the bottom to the top and follow with a rinsing of clear water. Excessive scrubbing is unnecessary, can be harmful to the products, and may cause undesirable glossy areas over the finish.
  • CAUTION: Do not use or mix sodium hypochlorite with other household chemicals or products containing ammonia. To do so will release hazardous gases.
  • CAUTION: Use care not to saturate window and door openings when cleaning your Variform siding and aluminum products.
  • TIP: Where the house is extremely dirty, it is recommended you start washing from the bottom and go to the top, rinsing frequently. Cleaning solutions should be permitted to stand on the surface of the siding and/or soffit for several minutes before rinsing.
  • TIP: Pay particular attention to areas under eaves, porches, awnings, and other overhangs that have limited exposure to the natural washing effect of rainfall.

Therma-Tru

What do I use to clean the door with?
Using a clean, dry rag, clean the entire surface with either the provided mineral spirits or an all-purpose cleaner such as Top Job, Mr. Clean or Pine Sol. Rinse soap off thoroughly. Allow to dry completely.

Sealrite

Warranty Conditions – Finishes can be affected by the varying exposures to the sun and the elements of the weather, therefore, Finishes should not be viewed as “no-maintenance.” A fresh coat of Topcoat with UV inhibitors or paint should be applied whenever you detect a change in your finish. Periodic maintenance to the Topcoat or paint is required to maintain this warranty. lt is recommended that the exterior of a stained unit be maintained with a coat of Topcoat with a UV inhibitor at a minimum every two years or as soon as the owner notices a change in the exterior finish of the door. unit. An Acrylic Clear Coat with a UV inhibitor is recommended. The use of Polyurethane, marine grade varnish or any oil-based product is prohibited and will void the Pre-Finish Warranty. Failure to follow the Warranty Conditions, or failure to maintain the clear coat finish on stain finishes, paint on painted finishes, or any other required care or maintenance, or any product manufacture’s recommendations, will void this Pre-Finish Warranty. Required Care and Maintenance guidance is available at www.sealritedoor.com

Provia

MAINTENANCE & CARE FOR YOUR PROVIA ALUMINUM PRODUCTS
Aluminum Paint Finish:

  • To clean, wash with mild soap and water and treat like your new car finish.
  • If finish is accidentally scratched or chipped, use touch-up paint available from your dealer.
  • To protect finish, spray with vinyl protector such as Armor-all® or use a high quality auto wax and polish the surface.

Hardware:

  • All hardware will function better if it is cleaned properly.
  • Much like sterling silver, even the finest brass will react naturally to the elements surrounding it. To maintain, polish with a nonabrasive automotive or furniture wax. You may have to clean with brass cleaner if the brass tarnishes. By keeping your hardware cleaned and maintained you will be rewarded with a long lasting finish.
  • Tighten screws when necessary.
  • Clean out the interlocks on double hung windows after exposure to dust.
  • Wipe heavy dust off balance rods on double hung windows. WD–40® should not be used to lubricate balances.
  • Adjusting the balances on double hung windows requires special tools. Contact your dealer if the balances require adjustment.
  • Oil hinges on storm doors as needed with a light sewing machine oil.
  • Keep weatherstripping clean of dirt and grit for proper sealing. Wash with mild soap and water. Vinyl and rubber seals can be treated with vinyl protector

Schlage

See manufacturer’s website: https://www.schlage.com/blog/categories/2020/04/how-to-properly-clean-door-locks.html

Owens Corning

Algae Growth on Shingles-Algae growth causes a dark discoloration on roofs- The algae is usually brown to black in color which results in a streaked, dirty looking rooftop. Algae may be mistaken for soot, dirt, or tree droppings, which typically produce only localized discoloration. The primary species of algae being observed is Gloeocapsa. This type of algae is contained in and transported through the air and tends to collect and grow upon roofing structures. This type of roof discoloration has been most widespread in the Gulf States and along the Northwest and Eastern Seaboards. lt is not, however, confined to only these regions. Algae growth occurs to varying degrees in all regions of the country, especially those subjected to warm, humid conditions.

Recommended Cleaning Methods-Discoloration of roofs caused by fungus or algae is difficult to remove but may be lightened by spraying a diluted solution of chlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate, and water onto the roof. Solutions range from one cup TSP, one gallon bleach and four gallons of water, to one cup TSP and 2.5 gallons each of bleach and water. This solution can then be rinsed from the roof in 10 to 15 minutes. Do not scrub; scrubbing will loosen and remove granules. After spraying be sure to thoroughly flush the roof and the greenery around the home (grass, bushes and shrubs) with water. The effectiveness of this type of cleaning may only be temporary, and the discoloration may recur. High pressure washing is not recommended due to the possibility of removing granules, thereby shortening the life of the roofing system.

How does Algae Affect the Performance of Asphalt Shingles?
Owens Corning feels that algae deposits or fungus growth will not affect the service life of the shingle. Because a white or light-colored roof is turned dark brown or black it will absorb more heat or energy, therefore accelerating the aging process possibly causing premature granule loss. lt is important to note that this is only our opinion and that we have not performed any testing to provide the technical justification regarding the impact on the performance of asphalt shingles due to fungus or additional heat build-up. Algae Resistant Shingles The most effective solution available for preventing algae or fungus growth are asphalt shingle products that incorporate metals like copper or zinc in the granules. The algicidal properties of these metals were discovered by observing that algae stains were rarely seen in the areas beneath metal vents or flashing, even when the rest of a roof was infested. The algae-inhibiting effects come from a gradual dissolution or leaching of metal under normal weathering conditions. Owens Coming offers a complete line of Algae Resistant Shingles.

Ice Dam Information

Tired of icicles surrounding your home all winter long? Noticed water damage in your attic, or worse yet, the interior walls of your home? Ice dams may be your problem. Worried how it affects the efficiency of your shingles? So many of the issues associated with ice dams can be cured by the proper installation of a new roof, and the accessories and proper ventilation it needs to outlive the long Wisconsin winters.

Preventing an Ice Dam

Ice Dams Defined

An ice dam is a layer of ice that is built up at the edge of the roof that prevents melting snow from draining off of the roof.

Causes and Formation of Ice Dams

An ice dam can occur when a cycle of repeated freezing and thawing causes ice to build up on the roof, blocking the path of newly melted snow as it travels toward the gutters.  Snow accumulates on the slanted roof of a house and warmth coming up through the roof melts the snow from underneath.  If the snow is thick enough, melt water flows down the roof, beneath the blanket of un-melted snow, until it flows onto the eave and into the gutter, where colder conditions on the overhang cause it to freeze. Eventually, ice accumulates along the eave and in the gutter, “damming” up the path of the newly melting snow.  The next batch of melted snow now cannot drain properly, and water continues to build up and eventually backs up underneath your shingles where it can cause major leaks.

Can Ice Dams Be Completely Prevented?

Under extreme conditions, with heavy snow and severe cold, almost any house can have an ice dam, whereas a house that is poorly insulated and ventilated will have ice dams even during normal winter weather. While many of us have taken steps to reduce the ice dams that can occur during Wisconsin winters, preventing ice dams in extreme weather, as we’ve experienced recently, requires a few additional measures on the part of the homeowner.

How Can I Minimized The Chance Of Having An Ice Dam?

If you have not yet taken steps to minimize the risk of ice dams on your home, here are some steps you can take:

  • Keep the roof cold by keeping the attic cold.
    • Install more insulation in the attic floor.
    • Seal bypasses into the attic.
    • Draw more outside air into attic through gable and eave vents.
  • Install slippery metal roofing along the eaves so that snow and ice slide off more easily.
  • Before installing new shingles, install an adhesive, waterproof, rubberized ice-shield membrane on the sheathing to seal around nail holes and protect the sheathing from backed-up water.
  • Switch to a warm-attic system. Make your attic part of the conditioned space of your house. This requires that you insulate the attic roof from both sides, insulate the exterior walls of the attic, and install energy-efficient attic windows.
  • Install electric roof de-icing cables to create a heated drain path that allows melt water to drain off the roof through the gutter and downspout system. Roof de-icing cables should be installed by an electrical contractor per the national electric code on a dedicated GFCI protected circuit.

What Maintenance Does My Roof Need In Winter?

Homes that have taken all the permanent steps possible to prevent ice dams may still see some ice build-up during heavy snowfalls.  This is not a sign that your preventative measures are failing, but simply a reminder of the reality that no system can entirely prevent ice buildup.  In addition to alterations to the structure of your home, ice dam prevention should include the following regular maintenance:

  • Make sure attic vents aren’t blocked.
  • Keep gutters clean.
  • Remove excess snow with a roof rake.
  • Hose off the roof with tap water on a warm day. (Note that water run-off could damage shrubbery.)
  • Break up ice dams by creating ice channels to drain water.
  • Fill an old pair of pantyhose with calcium chloride snow melt and lay it across the dam. (Do not use rock salt as it can discolor the roof!)
  • Address snow build-up early, before it has a chance to melt.
  • Hire a company to steam the roof if other measures cannot control the ice buildup.

Things Not To Do

  • Do not chop ice off the shingles. You will damage the shingles.
  • Do not use a blowtorch. You could burn your house down.
  • Do not throw anything on the roof that cannot be retrieved. This can cause rain gutter plugging.
  • Do not take your gutters off your home!  The water will not back up without gutters, but will instead drop down to the ground and into your foundation.

Gutter Guards

GutterGekko

Maintenance Conditions to Warranties
It is a condition to the Warranties that the original consumer purchaser properly maintains the GutterGekko products in accordance with standards promulgated by Quality Edge from time to time. At a minimum, the purchaser shall comply with the following maintenance obligations:

  • Due to dirt or other substances that may build up around the horizontal overhang/edge of the system and under the nose, the original customer purchaser must perform annual spray cleanings with a garden or pressure hose to help maintain performance excellence. Additional periodic cleaning may be required in regions where excessive tree sap, hardwood tree tassels, and/or pine resin are prevalent.
  • Alignment and spacing are critical for performance excellence. The purchaser shall not permit unauthorized contractors (painters, roofers, etc.) to adjust or tamper with the system, or allow ladders to come in contact with gutters or the GutterGekko custom-engineered system.
  • GutterGekko is designed to be a closed system. Water flows into the gutter at the pre-set gap along the gutter front. While birds and animals are normally prevented from entering and obstructing water flow, if gaps, spacing, or misalignment allow birds or animals to enter the system, the purchaser must contact the installation dealer for service.
  • GutterGekko features a patented coating. Paint and waterproofing chemicals defeat the purpose of this coating, and performance is reduced. The purchaser must not do anything to interfere with this patented coating, including without limitation painting the GutterGekko system.
  • Though damages or failures caused by actions beyond Quality Edge’s control are not covered by the Warranties (see above), corrections must be made immediately to restore or maintain peak performance. If accidental damage or misalignment does occur, the purchaser should arrange for immediate service from a GutterGekko dealer.
  • During manufacture and installation, natural oils may adhere to GutterGekko and cause minor runoff on newly installed systems. This is normal and will dissipate after 30-60 days. GutterGekko is also ice neutral, neither causing nor preventing ice dams. Performance should not be affected by the presence of icicles.
    Proper Care/Maintenance
  • Gutter Gekko Gutter Protection is the finest micro-mesh gutter guard on the market today. In most cases, rainfall alone is sufficient to keep it clean, but there may be some instances where cleaning/maintenance will be required. Light winds should remove most surface debris (due to the product slope), but if debris is wet or compressed, higher winds may be required to effect shedding. We do recommend an occasional washing of the mesh using clean water from a garden hose. Using a soft bristled car-wash style brush is ideal to augment this effort. A mild surfactant or degreaser can also be used during this maintenance. Mildew or mold can collect on all types of building products if not cared for correctly. These conditions can be eradicated by utilizing a 1 part bleach and 3 part water solution during thee aforementioned maintenance process. Rinse thoroughly after use and do not exceed the recommended concentration of these cleaners. To do so may cause irreparable damage to the product. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions of cleaning compounds. Caulking compounds, tar and similar substances can leach from some roofing materials and mesh clogging may occur. To remove these substances, use reasonable amounts of mineral spirits applied directly to the foreign substance. Test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure product finish is not compromised.

EZ-sentury/EZ Micro mesh/E-Z step down

Is E-Z Gutter Guard a maintenance free product?
Although the product is designed to handle volumes of water and the slight slope it is installed on should shed most of the debris, the guards should be checked periodically to see if leaves, sticks or other debris haven’t gotten hung up on the edges. You may have to brush off the surface on occasion if leaves accumulate. If you notice a build-up of dirt or debris on your system, simply sweep or rinse it off with a high-pressure nozzle on your garden hose.

  • Warranty does not Cover-Midwest Enterprises has no control over the installation of the product. Improper installation of the E-Z-HydroClean gutter guard systems, impact of foreign objects (including hail / ice).Any unauthorized modifications will terminate Midwest Enterprises’ responsibilities under this limited warranty.
  • Like all gutter protection products, E-Z-HydroClean gutter guard systems require maintenance from time to time, (especially in a sheltered roof area) like brushing off the top of the panels.
  • Any expense or cost incurred to clean any blockage or obstruction including those which are determined to be below grade will not be covered.

Gutters/Aluminum

Norandex

CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Norandex™ Aluminum Soffit, Aluminum Soffit Accessories, Aluminum Trim Coil, Aluminum Fascia, and Aluminum Gutter Coil and Rainware Accessories are some of the most durable building products materials available today for residential applications. In most cases, normal rainfall is sufficient to keep them clean. But if your Norandex™ Aluminum Products should need cleaning, we recommend the following procedures. Particular attention should be given to areas under eaves, porches, awnings, and other overhangs that have limited exposure to the natural washing effect of rainfall.

  • Moderate Atmospheric Dirt — we recommend an occasional washing with clear water using a garden hose and soft-bristled brush (a longhandled, car-washing brush is ideal for this purpose). NOTE: power washing painted aluminum may damage the finish and void the warranty.
  • Heavy Industrial Atmospheric Dirt — Wash in the manner indicated above, but use the following solution:
    • 1/3 cup detergent (Tide®, for example)
    • 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate (Soilax®, for example)
    • 1 gallon water
  • Mildew Accumulation — Mildew can collect on surfaces of all types of building products and is often evident on surfaces that have not been properly cared for and maintained. Normally, mildew will appear as black spots. Mildew is easy to remove by using the basic cleaning solution above with the addition of sodium hypochlorite as follows:
    • 1/3 cup detergent (Tide®, for example)
    • 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate (Soilax®, for example)
    • 1 quart sodium hypochlorite 5% solution (Clorox®, for example)
    • 3 quarts water
  • Caulking Compounds, Tar and Similar Substances — Use mineral spirits in reasonable amounts and apply directly to the foreign substance. Immediately after cleaning, rinse the area thoroughly with water.

CAUTION: Do not exceed the recommended concentrations of cleaners. To do so can cause damage to the Products’ surface. Avoid skin and eye contact with the solution, and in all cases follow manufacturer’s instructions for the use of cleaning compounds and solutions. Avoid use of abrasive-type cleaners and strong solvents. Test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area before applying to major areas. To minimize streaking, always clean from the bottom to the top and follow with a rinsing of clear water. Excessive scrubbing is unnecessary and can be harmful to the Products, and may cause undesirable glossy areas over the finish.

NORMAL MAINTENANCE

  • Wash using a soft cloth or ordinary long-handled soft bristle brush. For textured surfaces, use only a soft bristle brush to avoid smearing the stain into the grooves of the texture. Clean gently to avoid surface abrasion. After cleaning, rinse area with water.
  • To wash an entire house, start at the bottom and work up to the top, then rinse back down from top to bottom in order to prevent streaking.
  • For difficult-to-remove dirt and stains such as top soil, motor oil, lithium grease, crayon, felt-tip pen, caulking, lipstick, grass, bubble gum, mold and mildew, use readily available household cleaners such as those included in the list below.
  • Most cleaners are inefficient in cleaning stains such as pencil, paint, oil and tar. In these cases, you may wish to use a mildly abrasive cleaner, such as Soft Scrub,® Ajax,® Bon Ami,® etc., but the use of any abrasive material could have a negative effect on surface appearance.
  • Do not use cleaners containing organic solvents or other aggressive ingredients because they could affect the surface appearance of the vinyl. Examples of such cleaners are: chlorine bleach, liquid grease remover, strong soaps and detergents containing organic solvents, nail polish remover, furniture polish/cleaners.

Quality Edge

Due to dirt or other substances that may build up around or on the metal products. annual spray cleaning with a garden hose must be performed to help maintain performance excellence. Additional periodic cleaning may be required in regions where excessive tree sap, hardwood tree tassels, and/or pine resin are prevalent.

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