Choosing the Perfect Aluminium Windows for Your Canterbury Home

When it comes to selecting windows for your Canterbury home, aluminium windows are the number one choice. Not only do they offer a sleek, modern and contemporary look, but they also provide durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance — ideal for Canterbury’s unique climate. If you’re planning to build new, renovate, or replace existing windows, understanding the benefits and options available can help you make the best decision for your home.

Why Aluminium?

Aluminium windows combine strength and lightweight design, making them perfect for a variety of home styles. Unlike timber, aluminium does not warp, rot, or suffer from pest damage, which is especially important given Canterbury’s changeable weather. Additionally, aluminium frames can be powder-coated in a range of colours to match your home’s aesthetic, offering versatility without compromising on durability.

Energy Efficiency Matters

One of the biggest advantages of modern aluminium windows is their energy efficiency. Double glazing and thermal breaks within the frames help reduce heat loss during colder months and keep your home cooler in summer. This means lower heating and cooling costs, as well as increased comfort year-round. Choosing energy-efficient windows is a smart investment that can also add value to your property.

Styles to Suit Every Home

At Number One Windows and Doors, we offer a variety of aluminium window styles to suit your specific needs:

• Casement Windows: Open outward to provide excellent ventilation and unobstructed views.
• Sliding Windows: Space-saving and easy to operate, ideal for tighter spaces.
• Awning Windows: Hinged at the top, they offer ventilation even in wet weather.
• Picture Windows: Fixed windows that maximise natural light and outdoor views.

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Professional Installation Is Key

When you live in a city like Canterbury, where you can experience four seasons in a single day, your home’s windows and doors need to perform year-round—and look good doing it. That’s why aluminium is the go-to choice for many Canterbury homeowners. It’s sleek, strong, and built to withstand the elements.

But even the most durable materials benefit from a little care.

At Number One Windows & Doors, we work with high-quality aluminium joinery designed for New Zealand’s conditions. To help you protect your investment and keep your windows and doors operating at their best, we’ve put together this simple maintenance guide tailored to the unique demands of Canterbury’s environment.

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Why Canterbury’s Climate Matters

Canterbury enjoys a varied climate—sunny and dry in summer, cool and damp in winter, and windy throughout the year. This mix creates specific challenges for window and door performance, including:

• Condensation in cooler months
  
  
• Wind-driven rain and dust
  
  
• UV exposure from strong sunlight
  
  
• Salt-laden air near coastal areas
  

Fortunately, aluminium is inherently corrosion-resistant and requires far less upkeep than timber or uPVC. But it’s not entirely maintenance-free. With a few easy habits, you can extend the life and look of your windows for decades.

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Regular Cleaning: The First Line of Defence

Dust, grime, and salt can accumulate on frames and glass over time, dulling finishes and potentially damaging seals or hardware. Regular cleaning helps preserve both function and appearance.

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How often?

• Every 3 months for inland Canterbury homes
  
  
• Monthly if you’re near the coast, industrial zones, or busy roads
  
  

What to use:

• Soft cloth or sponge
  
  
• Mild soapy water (pH neutral detergent)
  
  
• Clean water for rinsing
  
  
• Microfibre cloth for drying
  
  

Avoid: Harsh abrasives, solvents, steel wool, or high-pressure hoses. These can scratch or strip the powder-coat finish.

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Don’t Forget the Tracks and Drainage Channels

Window and door tracks are key to smooth operation—but they’re often neglected. Over time, dust, sand, and debris can build up and cause sticking, squeaking, or jamming.

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How to clean tracks:

1. Use a small brush or vacuum with a nozzle to remove loose debris.
   
   
2. Wipe with a damp cloth and soapy water.
   
   
3. Dry thoroughly to prevent corrosion or mold.
   

Most aluminium systems, including ours, include built-in drainage holes to carry water away. Keep these clear to prevent internal leaks or frame damage.

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Hardware Maintenance for Smooth Operation

Even the most advanced frame system won’t work properly without functioning hinges, locks, and handles. And while our hardware is made to last, a little attention goes a long way.

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Every 6–12 months:

• Lightly lubricate hinges and moving parts using a silicone spray or graphite-based lubricant (avoid oil-based sprays).
  
  
• Check for loose screws or misalignment—especially on frequently used doors and windows.
  
  
• Inspect locks and handles for smooth action.
  
  

If your windows or doors feel stiff or aren’t locking securely, don’t force them—contact our service team for help.

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Combatting Condensation in Winter

Canterbury homes often face indoor condensation, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms during winter. While condensation is more about internal humidity than window quality, well-maintained joinery can reduce its impact.

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Tips to minimise condensation:

• Keep interior rooms ventilated (awning windows help).
  
  
• Use Low-E double glazing, which keeps interior glass surfaces warmer.
  
  
• Wipe condensation regularly to prevent damage to seals or walls.
  
  

Powder-Coat Protection: Keep the Finish Looking Fresh

Aluminium windows and doors come with a durable powder-coated finish, but even tough coatings benefit from protection—especially with Canterbury’s harsh UV and coastal air.

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To maintain finish:

• Wash frames regularly as described above.
  
  
• Avoid placing metal objects against frames (to prevent galvanic corrosion).
  
  
• Use a car wax or surface protectant every 1–2 years for extra shine and UV defence (especially for dark colours).
  
  

When to Call in the Pros

You should never have to struggle with sticky windows, misaligned doors, or draughty frames. If you notice:

• Difficulty opening or closing
  
  
• Leaks during rain
  
  
• Cracked glass or warped seals
  
  
• Corrosion or bubbling paint
  
  

Designed to Last, Built to Perform

All our aluminium joinery systems are designed with NZ conditions in mind:

• Thermally broken frames
  
  
• Compression seals for superior weather resistance
  
  
• NZ-tested glass from trusted local suppliers like Metro Performance Glass

We also offer warranties on both materials and workmanship—and regular maintenance ensures those warranties stay valid.

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Easy Maintenance = Lasting Value

Aluminium windows and doors are an investment—and like any investment, they deserve care. With just a bit of cleaning, a quick check of the hardware, and seasonal attention to seals and tracks, your windows will:
✔ Look great
✔ Work flawlessly
✔ Protect your home for decades

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