The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning and Maintaining Security Screen Doors and Window Screens

Security screen doors and window screens are some of the best investments you can make for your home. Not only do they provide a critical layer of protection, but they also enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal and allow for increased ventilation. Like any valuable asset, security screen doors and window screens require regular cleaning and maintenance to stay in optimal condition.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining your security screens, from recommended cleaning supplies to a detailed step-by-step process and tips on avoiding common cleaning mistakes. By following these guidelines, you’ll keep your screens looking great, functioning properly, and ensure that your product’s warranty remains valid.

For a fast overview, please see the video below. Or read on for thorough instructions and guidelines.

YouTube video
Maintenance tips for Amplimesh® security screens

Why Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Matter

Your security screens play a crucial role in keeping your home safe from intruders, pests, and harsh weather. Proper maintenance ensures that they continue to perform their best, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

1. Protect Your Investment

Regular cleaning helps prevent dust, dirt, and corrosive elements from building up, which can cause long-term damage. By removing debris, you can extend the life of your doors and window screens, preserving their original look and effectiveness​.

2. Warranty Compliance

Many security screen products, such as those from Amplimesh®, come with generous warranties—up to 16 years for certain models. However, these warranties require you to follow specific maintenance procedures to remain valid. Failure to adhere to these guidelines could void your warranty​​.

3. Aesthetic and Functional Benefits

Beyond durability, keeping your security doors and window screens clean ensures clear visibility, smooth operation, and a sharp appearance. A well-maintained screen enhances curb appeal while keeping your home safe.


Recommended Cleaning Supplies

Before starting the cleaning process, gather the following supplies to ensure you’re using the right tools and products for the job:

  • Soft-bristled brush or vacuum with a brush attachment
  • Mild household detergent or Amplimesh® Organic Security Screen Cleaner
  • Soft cloth or sponge
  • Bucket of water
  • Hose with a gentle spray setting
  • Towel or absorbent chamois for drying

Always avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the screen’s finish​.


Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris

Start by removing any loose dirt or debris from the screens. Use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently sweep the surface. Focus on corners and edges, where dirt tends to accumulate. This step prevents rubbing dirt into the screen during cleaning, which could cause scratches​​.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

In a bucket, mix a mild detergent or the Amplimesh® Organic Security Screen Cleaner with water. Follow the product’s instructions, using just enough detergent to create a light soapy solution. Harsh chemicals can damage the frame and mesh, so it’s essential to choose a gentle cleaner​.

Step 3: Clean the Screens

Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the entire screen, using even pressure to avoid damage.

Step 4: Rinse the Screens

Once you’ve finished scrubbing, use a hose with a gentle spray setting to rinse off the soap and dirt. Ensure all cleaning residue is thoroughly removed. If a hose isn’t available, you can use a bucket of clean water and a sponge to rinse the screens manually. Avoid high-pressure settings, as this can drive water into your window and door frames​.

Step 5: Dry the Screens

Let the screens air dry, or use a towel or absorbent cloth to gently pat them down. Drying the screens completely helps prevent watermarks, particularly in humid or coastal environments. Ensure that no moisture remains in the frame.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Maintaining your security screen doors and window screens isn’t just about cleaning—it’s also about regularly inspecting and caring for different components to ensure long-term performance.

Regular Inspections

Periodically inspect your security screen doors and windows for signs of wear and tear. Address any issues promptly by contacting a professional to prevent small problems from becoming major ones​​.

Lubrication

Keep hinges, locks, and other moving parts functioning smoothly by applying dry graphite powder or an aerosol-based lubricant. Focus on the latch bolt cavity and other moving parts but avoid spraying directly into keyholes​​.

Weather Considerations

Different weather conditions can affect how frequently and thoroughly you should maintain your security screens:

  • Rainy Seasons: After extended heavy rain, dry the screens thoroughly.
  • Coastal Environments: If you’re close to the ocean, salt build up on your screens can become a problem unless cleaned regularly.
  • Dusty Environments: In dry, dusty areas, more frequent dusting and cleaning may be necessary to keep the mesh clear.

Cleaning Intervals Based on Environmental Factors

Amplimesh® recommends specific cleaning intervals depending on the proximity of your home to the coast. Following these guidelines helps protect your investment and keeps the warranty intact​:

  • Mild Environments (more than 10km from the coast): Clean every 6 months.
  • Moderate Environments (1km to 10km from the coast): Clean every 2-3 months.
  • Marine Environments (500m to 1km from the coast): Clean every 2-4 weeks.
  • Severe Marine Environments (less than 500m from the coast): Clean every 1-2 weeks.

Caring for Different Components

Each part of your security screen doors and window screens requires specific attention to ensure longevity:

  • Aluminium Frames: Wipe down anodised or powder-coated aluminium frames regularly with a soft cloth​.
  • Stainless Steel Mesh: Particularly in coastal environments, clean stainless steel mesh more frequently to prevent salt build-up​.
  • Locks and Hinges: Regular lubrication of locks and hinges is critical to avoid seizing. Always avoid using harsh cleaners on locks, and use aerosol lubricants sparingly​​.

Avoiding Common Cleaning Mistakes

To ensure your cleaning routine is effective, avoid the following common mistakes:

  • Don’t Use High-Pressure Washers: High-pressure water can push water into areas you don’t want it such as window frames and door frames​.
  • Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Scouring pads and harsh chemicals can scratch or corrode the surface, leading to premature wear​.
  • Don’t Forget the Frame: Cleaning the mesh is crucial, but the frame is the structure of the screens so they’re equally as important​.

Importance of Regular Maintenance for Warranty Compliance

Maintaining your security screen doors and windows is not only essential for performance but also for keeping your product’s warranty valid. Amplimesh® offers up to 16 years of warranty on some of its products, but the warranty requires you to follow the recommended cleaning and maintenance routine. Ensure you register your product after installation to maximise your warranty benefits​.

Conclusion

Cleaning and maintaining your security screen doors and window screens is a straightforward process, but it’s one that should be done regularly to keep your screens functioning optimally and looking great. Following the steps in this guide will help you protect your investment, prolong the lifespan of your security screens, and comply with warranty requirements.

If you’d like professional assistance or have any concerns about maintaining your security screens, Carefree Security & Blinds is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s keep your home secure, beautiful, and well-maintained for years to come.

    Comments are closed

    GET IN TOUCH

    Book a free consultation today

    Carefree Security & Blinds is a local family-owned business in Nerang, Gold Coast. We have over 28 years manufacturing, supplying and installing quality security screens for doors and windows, indoor blinds and outdoor awnings.

    We offer FREE measure and quotes, extensive warranties, and we stand by our products and workmanship. Serving the entire Gold Coast region, including Coolangatta and Jimboomba.

    Carefree Security & Blinds logo

    Located on the Gold Coast, Carefree Security & Blinds have over 28 years of experience in delivering quality security screens, blinds, doors and awnings.

    QBCC Licence Number: 68835

    Contact Us

    Service Areas

    Nerang, Southport, Coolangatta, Coomera, Upper Coomera, Robina, Varsity Lakes, Palm Beach, Ormeau, Elanora, Mermaid Waters, Oxenford, Hope Island, Burleigh Heads, Mermaid Beach, Clear Island Waters, Coombabah, Jimboomba, Canungra.

    Don't see your suburb listed? Contact us as I'm sure we'll come to you!

    © 2024 Carefree Security & Blinds | ABN 77 096 802 439 | Website by Bulldog Digital