Good News: Minimal Maintenance Required
SWB window bars are made from galvanized steel with powder coating, designed to withstand years of outdoor exposure with minimal care. Most homeowners spend less than 1 hour per year on maintenance.
Maintenance Schedule
Follow this schedule to ensure your window bars remain effective and look great:
Monthly Maintenance
- Visual inspection for rust spots or damage
- Check mounting brackets are secure
- Test quick-release mechanism (if applicable)
- Wipe down with dry cloth
Quarterly Maintenance
- Clean with mild soap and water
- Inspect all screws and anchors
- Lubricate telescopic mechanism with WD-40
- Check for paint chips or scratches
Annually Maintenance
- Deep clean entire unit
- Touch up any rust spots or scratches
- Verify fire-code compliance (for EXIT models)
- Test structural integrity
- Consider professional inspection for commercial installations
Cleaning Instructions
Regular Cleaning (Quarterly)
- Mix mild dish soap with warm water
- Use a soft cloth or sponge—avoid abrasive scrubbers
- Wipe down all bar surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Dry completely with a clean cloth to prevent water spots
What NOT to Use
- • Bleach or chlorine-based cleaners (damages coating)
- • Abrasive scrubbers or steel wool (scratches surface)
- • Pressure washers (can damage seals and coating)
- • Harsh chemical solvents (strips protective finish)
Deep Cleaning (Annual)
Once a year, perform a more thorough cleaning:
- Remove bars if easily detachable (optional but allows better access)
- Clean with automotive car wash soap for best results
- Use a soft brush for crevices and corners
- Apply automotive wax for extra protection (optional)
- Reinstall and verify all mounting hardware is tight
Rust Prevention & Treatment
Prevention
SWB bars are galvanized and powder-coated for rust resistance, but you can extend their life further:
- Keep them dry: Wipe off standing water after rain when convenient
- Address scratches promptly: Any exposed metal should be touched up
- Coastal environments: Clean more frequently (monthly) to remove salt
- Apply wax: Automotive wax adds another protective layer
Treating Rust Spots
If you notice rust forming:
- Sand the area: Use fine-grit sandpaper (220+) to remove rust
- Clean thoroughly: Remove all dust and debris
- Apply rust converter: Products like Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer neutralize rust
- Paint over: Use rust-inhibiting spray paint matching the original color
- Let cure: Allow 24-48 hours before exposure to moisture
Telescopic Mechanism Care
The telescopic adjustment system requires occasional attention:
Telescopic Mechanism Maintenance
Every 3 Months:
- • Spray WD-40 into telescopic joint
- • Extend and retract several times
- • Wipe off excess lubricant
If Mechanism Sticks:
- • Apply penetrating oil (PB Blaster)
- • Let sit for 15-30 minutes
- • Gently work mechanism back and forth
- • Clean and re-lubricate with WD-40
Quick-Release Mechanism (Model A/EXIT)
If you have the quick-release model, regular testing is critical:
Monthly Quick-Release Test
- 1. Push the release button firmly
- 2. Verify bars swing open freely
- 3. Check that mechanism re-locks securely
- 4. Test glow-in-dark indicators are still visible
If mechanism fails to operate smoothly, do not use the window as an emergency exit until repaired. Contact us for replacement parts if needed.
Seasonal Considerations
Winter/Wet Season
- • Check for ice buildup in telescopic joints
- • Verify quick-release isn't frozen
- • Inspect for salt damage (road salt splash)
- • Consider additional lubrication before freeze
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Summer/Hot Season
- • Check for UV damage to coating
- • Verify thermal expansion hasn't loosened mounts
- • Clean off pollen and debris buildup
- • Inspect for wasp/insect nests in hollow areas
When to Replace Window Bars
Quality window bars last 20+ years, but consider replacement if:
- Structural damage: Bent, cracked, or warped bars
- Severe rust: Deep rust that compromises structural integrity
- Failed mechanism: Telescopic or quick-release no longer functions
- Mounting failure: Brackets or anchors have failed
- Code changes: New fire codes require quick-release in your jurisdiction