Any building must have windows because they provide ventilation, aesthetic appeal, and a link to the outside world. But over time, they can easily get soiled, gathering dirt, dust, and water stains. Whether you have timber, glass, aluminium, or vinyl windows, regular cleaning is essential to maintain their appearance and functionality. Timber windows require gentle cleaning and occasional treatment to protect the wood from moisture damage. Glass windows can be cleaned with a simple glass cleaner, but ensure you avoid streaks for a clear view. Aluminium windows are low-maintenance but benefit from occasional wiping with a non-abrasive cleaner to remove dirt and grime. Vinyl windows, being weather-resistant, can be easily cleaned with mild soap and water, preserving their finish and durability. So, here is the information and advice on best practices from expert window cleaners.
Appropriate Equipment and Cleaning Supplies
It is important to acquire all the tools and materials before beginning the window-washing process. When you use the proper tools, you will get the possible best results.
Essential Tools
Squeegee: For streak-free cleaning, a premium squeezer with a rubber blade is a must.
Bucket: To store your cleaning solution, use a fresh bucket.
Microfiber Cloths: These are the best option for cleaning corners and edges without producing lint.
Window Cleaning Solution: You can create your window cleaning solution at home with common household chemicals. Or, you can purchase commercial window cleaners.
Razor Blade or Scraper: A scraper is useful for removing obstinate areas like paint or bird droppings.
Extension Pole: An extension pole will make cleaning high or difficult-to-reach windows easier.
Ladder: To safely access upper windows, a strong ladder is needed.
Rubber Gloves: Wear rubber gloves to shield your hands from any sharp objects and the cleaning solution.
Selecting the Appropriate Cleaning Agent
Commercial window cleaning solutions abound, but you may also use basic items to create an efficient DIY solution:
Vinegar and Water: For a safe and efficient cleaning solution, combine equal parts white vinegar and water.
Dish Soap and Water: Grease and filth can be removed with a few drops of dish soap in a pail of warm water.
Rubbing Alcohol and Water: For a window cleaner that dries quickly and leaves no streaks, you can use it. You need to combine one part rubbing alcohol with two parts water.
Setting Up the Room
Spend some time getting the area around the windows ready before you start cleaning:
Remove Blinds and Curtains: To keep your furnishings dry and clean, remove any blinds, curtains, or shades.
Make Your Workspace Clear: To make your workspace clear, move any furniture or other items away from the windows.
Dust the Window Frame: Before using any cleaning solution, use a dry microfiber cloth. With this, you can wipe away any dust and cobwebs from the window frame and sill.
Method of Cleaning: The Step By Step Procedure
After preparing the place for cleaning and collecting all required tools and materials, you can start the cleaning procedure. For the best outcomes, adhere to the following steps:
Step 1: First, wet the window
Dip a cloth or sponge: Use your cleaning solution to soak a sponge or cloth. Then, wring it out until it's damp but not dripping.
Utilize the Fix: Apply the cleaning solution to the window in a circular motion, starting at the top. This helps in efficiently removing filth & grime.
Gently Scrub: Apply a little more pressure to any tough areas, but take care not to scratch the glass.
Step 2: Using the Squeegee
Put the Squeegee in Place: Squeegee horizontally over the glass, starting at the upper corner of the window. Ensure that the rubber blade is always in touch with the glass.
Wipe the Blade: To get rid of extra water and stop stains, wipe the blade with a fresh, dry cloth after each stroke.
Overlap Strokes: To guarantee that no water is left on the glass, slightly overlap each stroke.
Step 3: Polishing and drying
Dry the Edges: Remove any moisture from the edges. To get rid of any last bits of moisture, you can wipe the window's margins with a dry microfiber cloth.
Polish the Glass: As a last step, rub the glass to remove any last smudges or streaks with a dry cloth. As well, as you can clean microfiber cloth.
Window Cleaners Advice for Various Windows
Certain methods or factors may need to be considered for different kinds of windows. Here are some advanced window cleaning techniques for different kinds of windows:
A. Window Double-Hung
Cleaning double-hung windows that open from the top and bottom, can be challenging. This is how to deal with them:
Tilt-In Feature: Use the tilt-in feature on your double-hung windows to clean the glass on both sides from inside your house if it has one.
Clean the Upper Pane First: To avoid spills onto the recently cleaned Lower Pane, begin with the Upper Pane.
B. Windows with Casements
Casement windows, which have a crank to open outward, provide unique difficulties.
Fully Open the Window: To access the interior and external sides, fully open the window.
Clean Around the Crank: The crank mechanism might gather dust and debris, so make sure to clean the area around it.
C. Windows that Slid
Horizontal sliding windows have the potential to gather dirt in their tracks:
Vacuum the Tracks: Before cleaning the glass, use a vacuum attachment with a crevice tool. By using it, you will be able to clear the window tracks.
Clean the Tracks: To avoid dirt accumulation, use a wet cloth and a light cleanser to wipe off the tracks.
D. Tall Windows and Skylights
Cleaning high windows or skylights without the right tools can be hazardous.
Use an Extension Pole: To access high windows without using a ladder, tie your squeegee to an extension pole.
Hire Professional Window Cleaners: If your skylights are hard to access & need specific cleaning, think about hiring a professional.
E. Glass That Is Stained Or Led
To prevent damage, stained or leaded glass windows must be handled carefully:
Use Mild Soap: Use a soft cloth and a mild soap solution to clean discoloured or leaded glass. Steer clear of harsh chemicals since they may harm the finish.
Refrain from Using Too Much Water: Use as little water as possible. With this tip, you can stop it from leaking into the joints of stained or lead glass.
Handling Residue and Stains That Remain
Windows may have residue or stains that are difficult to clean and need more work. This is how to deal with them:
Discolourations from Hard Water
Mineral deposits that water leaves behind are the reason for hard water stains. To get rid of them, you can use the following tips.
Use Vinegar: Dab the spots with a towel soaked with white vinegar. After letting it sit for a few minutes, give it a light scrape with a gentle brush.
Industry Window Cleaners: Additionally, there are commercial chemicals made especially to clean glass stained by hard water.
Adhesive and Paint Residue
It can be difficult to remove paint spatters or sticker adhesive residue.
Use a Razor Blade: Holding a razor blade at a 45-degree angle to the glass, carefully scrape off paint or adhesive residue. To prevent scratches, make sure the glass stays moist.
Apply Solvent: To remove adhesive residue, lightly massage the affected area. For this, you can use a cloth dampened with a tiny amount of rubbing alcohol or a commercial adhesive remover.
Mildew and Mould
In humid settings, windows can grow mould and mildew.
Apply a Bleach Solution: Wet the afflicted area with a solution made of one part bleach to three parts water. After letting it sit for a few minutes, give it a brush scrub.
Rinse Well: To stop mould from growing again, thoroughly rinse the area with clean water after washing. And, then allow it to dry fully.
Safety Advice for Cleaning Windows
Safety is crucial since window washing may require working at heights and with chemicals.
Employ a Stable Ladder: If using a ladder, be sure it's level and stable before setting it down. On a ladder, never reach too far.
Put On Non-Slip Shoes: To avoid falls when washing windows outside, put on non-slip shoes.
Steer Clear of Direct Sunlight: Wipe windows on overcast days or when the sun isn't shining directly on them. The cleaning solution may dry too fast in the presence of sunlight, creating streaks.
When Using Chemicals, Ventilate: To prevent fume inhalation, ensure that the area is well-ventilated. This is very important if you are using a commercial cleaning solution.
How To Keep Windows Clean?
Maintaining your windows will help them stay clean longer after all that hard work has been done cleaning them.
Frequent Dusting: To avoid accumulation, dust the blinds, frames, and window sills regularly.
Check Weather Stripping: To keep moisture and dust out, examine and replace any damaged weather stripping.
Maintain Clean Screens: If your windows have screens, make sure you clean them frequently. With this step, you can stop debris from getting on the glass.
Conclusion
Window cleaning is a crucial chore that may greatly enhance the appearance & atmosphere of your house or place of business. Always use the right equipment, select the suitable cleaning solution, & follow the required procedures depending on the kind of window. Maintaining your windows regularly will keep them crystal clear and improve the aesthetics and comfort of your home.
These pointers and methods will help you consistently produce expert results; whether you're cleaning regular windows, working with high-quality or specialty glass, or just keeping your windows clean.
