Start by removing any curtains, blinds and other window treatments. Then use a vacuum cleaner or duster to remove heavy buildup of dust, film and smoke from windows and frames.
It’s best to clean on a cloudy day to avoid causing streaks by drying the glass too quickly. You can also use crumpled newspaper to buff your windows.Contact Window Cleaning Bradenton FL for professional help.
A professional window cleaner uses special cloths that are lint-free so as not to leave streaks on your windows. They will also wipe the sills, frames, and tracks. In addition, they can remove stubborn deposits or stains that would be difficult to scrub off with soap, water and a sponge. These can include tar, bird droppings and mineral deposits such as calcium, lime or rust. A commercial product called CLR can help remove these stains. It is available in the cleaning section of most hardware stores.
The first step in cleaning a window is to brush the surface with a soft-bristled counter brush or a vacuum cleaner fitted with a brush attachment. This will loosen dust and dirt that can make your windows look dull. If there are cobwebs on the frame or sills, they will be removed as well.
Next, the window is sprayed with a solution of vinegar and water or a commercial glass cleaner. Then, it is wiped in a zigzag pattern, starting at the top of the window and working your way down to the bottom. When you are done, use a microfiber cloth to buff the window until it is shiny and streak-free. If there is a buildup of grime on the glass, it may take several applications of the cleaning solution to remove it.
If there are any spots or marks on the windows, they can be scrubbed with a sponge, a brush or a clean part of the microfiber cloth. If there are stains caused by hard water or mineral deposits, they can be cleaned with a commercial product that dissolves these types of deposits.
A final step is to rinse the window. This is usually done with fresh, clean water. It is important to rinse the entire window so that no soap or residue remains on the glass. Then, the squeegee is used to remove any remaining water. This will produce the smooth, sparkling results that you want on your windows.
A good rule of thumb is to clean your windows at least twice a year. But if you live in an area with severe weather, or if your windows are particularly dirty, you should clean them more often. Cleaning your windows regularly can help prolong their life and keep them looking like new.
Cleaning the Outside
It’s easy to get distracted while cleaning inside your house and overlook the outside of a window. The outside can get just as dirty and requires a similar cleaning process. However, outside windows usually require a ladder to reach them, which puts your safety at risk when you’re working on one for an extended period of time. If you’re not comfortable or confident using a ladder, then hiring a professional is the best option for getting your outside windows cleaned.
A professional window cleaner will use a bucket of water and add either vinegar or a commercial glass cleaner to it. They will then dip a mop head or a clean microfiber cloth into the solution and start wiping down the window. They will work their way across the entire surface, scrubbing it and wiping away debris with their squeegee. After they finish scrubbing the window, they will rinse it off by either spraying down the window with their hose or turning the water jets on their telescoping pole to supply fresh clean rinse water to the windows from top to bottom.
If the window is really dirty, they will scrub it with a non-abrasive scouring pad or sponge. Then they will rinse it again with the hose or their water-fed pole until the window is completely free of grease, dirt, and airborne contaminants. After the window is thoroughly rinsed, it will be wiped dry with a clean, lint-free cloth (preferably a microfiber cloth that doesn’t shed lint).
The final step in cleaning the outside of the window is to wipe down the window frame and sills. They will also wipe down the edge moldings and trim to make sure that they are completely clean. Finally, they will apply a rust inhibitor to the exterior of the window to protect it from future deterioration.
Cleaning the Frame
Window frames are an important component of the overall look and functionality of a window. However, neglecting these window components can lead to the accumulation of dirt and grime that will impact both the interior and exterior of your living spaces. The good news is that it’s easy to maintain pristine window frames with consistent and thorough cleaning. By integrating this routine into your regular home maintenance, you can avoid the buildup of dirt and grime that can cause your windows to lose their brilliance.
Whether the frame of your windows is made from wood or from an aluminum or vinyl material, these components require special care to keep them clean and looking beautiful. For wooden frames, a buildup of moisture can cause the wood to rot or warp. This is why it’s important to avoid over-saturating the window frame with water. Instead, use a cloth or towel that is only slightly damp.
On the other hand, aluminum and vinyl windows can withstand a bit more water than their wooden counterparts. To keep these materials clean, you can use a mild detergent or soap and water to wipe them down. For stubborn stains or deposits, you can also use mineral spirits or a cleaner like Pine-Sol that is safe for the material.
If your window tracks are coated with built-up grime, a strong cleanser is required. Dish soap or natural cleaners, such as vinegar, are great options. However, for particularly tough stains or deposits, you can opt to use a biological wash powder that will break down organic material.
Regardless of the cleaning product you choose, it’s important to avoid using any rough brushes or cleaners on your window frames. These can scratch or damage the glass and leave behind unsightly marks on the surface. In addition, it’s a good idea to apply automobile wax to your window frames after they are cleaned to protect them from the elements.
To make your cleaning process even easier, gather all of your materials ahead of time to avoid losing track of where you are in the process. You should have a clean bucket of warm or hot water, one towel to dip into the solution, and another dry towel to wipe away any excess water residue. Additionally, you’ll need a clean brush or toothbrush for the corners and crevices of your windows.
Cleaning the Screens
The screens of windows are often neglected, but they are a crucial element in keeping airborne dirt and pollen out of the house. The good news is, it doesn’t take a lot to clean them. You can use the same cleaning solutions as you would for windows, but be sure to get your hands on some microfiber cloths to avoid spreading dirt from one screen to another.
If you want to do a deep clean of your window screens, it’s best to remove them and lay them out to wash (HGTV recommends labeling each metal frame with marker or tape so you know which screen came from which window when you put them back in). Once you have all the windows’ screens out and ready to go, mix 1/4 cup of liquid all-purpose cleaner with 1/2 gallon of water, and get to work. Dip a sponge or microfiber cloth in the solution, and gently scrub each screen from top to bottom. When the screen is clean, rinse it with a hose set to the lowest pressure possible (to prevent stretching the screen) and let it dry completely before reinstalling it in its window.
You can also spot treat your window screens with vinegar or soapy water, while they are still in place. Just make sure the rag you’re using is lint-free and apply the cleaner in a circular motion to ensure that it’s not being rubbed over any of the frames or sills.