Regular servicing is one of the simplest ways to keep your doors and windows operating smoothly, prevent draughts and avoid long-term issues. Many homeowners assume that once their products are installed, they do not need ongoing care, but all moving parts require periodic checks to maintain performance.

This guide explains how often you should service your doors and windows, what is included, and which signs indicate that maintenance is overdue.

How Often Should Doors and Windows Be Serviced?

Most doors and windows should be serviced once a year, although some systems may benefit from a check every 6–12 months, depending on usage and location.

Recommended servicing intervals:

• Aluminium doors and windows: every 12 months

• uPVC doors and windows: every 12 months

• Bifold doors: every 6–12 months

• Sliding doors: every 12 months

• Composite front doors: every 12 months

• Roof lanterns and skylights: every 12 months (inspection only)

Homes near the coast or in areas with heavy rainfall or pollution may require more frequent servicing due to the effects of salt and debris.

Why Do Doors and Windows Need Servicing?

Doors and windows contain multiple components that move, support weight or help create a weatherproof seal. Over time, these parts experience wear, movement and environmental stress.

Servicing prevents issues such as:

• stiff or misaligned sashes

• draughts

• difficulty locking or unlocking

• water ingress

• damage to hinges or rollers

• dropped doors

• excessive handle resistance

• gaskets coming loose

• unnecessary strain on hardware

A well-maintained system lasts significantly longer and performs more efficiently.

What Is Included in a Standard Service?

A typical professional service includes the following checks and adjustments:

1. Cleaning and clearing the tracks

Debris, dirt and grit are removed from all tracks, including bottom tracks on bifolds and sliders.

2. Lubricating moving parts

Hinges, rollers, pivot points and locks are treated with a suitable dry lubricant to ensure smooth movement.

3. Checking alignment

Small movements in the frame or sash can cause sticking.
A service includes:

• hinge adjustment

• toe-and-heeling checks

• realignment of sashes

• tightening of fixings

4. Inspecting weather seals and gaskets

Professionals check for signs of wear, shrinkage or gaps.

5. Lock and handle testing

The multi-point locking system is tested to ensure correct engagement.

6. Checking drainage channels

Blocked drainage outlets can cause water pooling or leaks.

7. Glass and frame inspection

A visual check confirms there is no movement, failed glazing or deterioration around the perimeter.

Signs Your Doors or Windows Need Servicing Sooner

You should arrange a service as soon as you notice any of the following:

• the door or window becomes hard to open or close

• the lock feels resistant or does not line up

• you feel draughts even when the system is fully shut

• panels appear uneven

• the door catches on the floor

• water marks appear around the frame

• the handle feels loose or sticks

• you hear grinding or scraping noises

These are early indicators of misalignment or hardware strain.

How Does Regular Servicing Help?

Routine servicing helps:

• maintain smooth operation

• extend the lifespan of hardware

• reduce the risk of long-term damage

• prevent dropped doors or misaligned sashes

• avoid costly repairs

• ensure locking mechanisms work reliably

• keep seals tight and energy performance consistent

For high-traffic doors such as bifolds, routine checks prevent operational issues before they develop into mechanical failures.

Should You Service New Doors and Windows?

Yes. Even newly installed systems benefit from servicing after the first year because:

• frames settle

• buildings move slightly

• weather changes cause expansion and contraction

• rollers and hinges benefit from lubrication after initial use

A first-year service helps keep everything correctly aligned.

Can You Service Doors and Windows Yourself?

You can carry out basic maintenance such as:

• cleaning tracks

• lubricating with a dry silicone spray

• checking drainage holes

• tightening loose handles

However, adjustments to alignment, hinges, or toe-and-heeling should be carried out by a professional to avoid further issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does servicing improve energy efficiency?

Yes. Draughts and loose seals reduce thermal performance. A service helps maintain airtightness.

How long does a service take?

A typical service takes between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the number of doors and windows.

Do bifold doors require more frequent servicing?

Yes. Bifolds contain more moving parts and experience more strain. A check every 6–12 months is recommended.

Is servicing needed if the door seems to be working fine?

Yes. Servicing is preventative and helps avoid more complex issues.

Need Assistance with Servicing or Replacing Your Doors and Windows?

If your doors or windows are getting harder to operate, feel loose, or have not been serviced within the recommended timeframe, it may be beneficial to arrange a professional inspection.

Home Build Doors supplies high-quality aluminium systems and can provide guidance on servicing schedules, hardware care and long-term performance.

For advice or a free quotation, contact Home Build Doors.