Windows are one of the most overlooked aspects of home maintenance. A neglected window doesn’t just look bad. It can actually hurt the resale value of your home. Window cleaning is a skill that can take years to master. Luckily, there are things you can do to speed up the process and learn more about the art of window washing. Here are tips for washing windows like the pros.
Timing Is Everything
The primary determinant of how your windows look is the time of year you wash them. Windows are exposed to harsher weather during the colder months, so you’ll need to be more proactive in your washing. The colder the air and the more it’s blown around, the more dirt and grime stay stuck on your windows. You should wash your windows at least once a year, and you’ll want to wash them more if you live in an area prone to rain or snow.
Use the Right Tools
If you’re washing a couple of windows, you probably won’t need anything but water and some elbow grease. However, if you’re planning on doing more than a couple, it’s probably worth investing in some window washing gear. You can choose between a squeegee, a wheeled ladder, or a pole to reach your windows. Some people like to use little water-soaked rags, but the truth is that doesn’t really work very well. The best way to clean your windows is through oxygen-free aspirator action.
Get the Right Detergent
You want to look for an all-purpose detergent that can get the job done. For everyday window washing, you’ll want to choose a powdered or liquid soap free of any bleach or other harsh chemicals. You don’t want to deter the cleaning job by stripping your windows of their natural oils. If you’re washing a lot of your windows as part of a bigger project, you might also want to invest in some window cleaner.
Wash the Streaks Away
You don’t want to spray a lot of water on your windows because that makes them hard to clean. What you want to do is wet the glass before you start washing it. You can do this by using a mister or other spray bottle filled with water. The water will help you avoid streaking and make it easier for you to reach hard to get to places.
Technique Is Key
You may think you know how to clean your windows, but you’re probably doing it wrong. If you want them to look great, you’ll want to follow these steps. Start by using a squeegee or other cleaning device to remove dirt and debris from anywhere on the glass surface. Next, spray your windows with water and use a soapy rag to clean the glass. Switch to a rinse rag and gently wipe away any soap residue. Repeat this process until you are satisfied with the look of your windows.
Start in the Top Corners
If you want to get, your windows cleaned quickly, start with the top corners and work your way down. If you start with the bottom, you’ll probably end up using a lot more water. By starting at the top, you’ll be able to skip a lot of steps that are unnecessary once you get to the bottom.
Use a Wet Rag
If you really want to get your windows clean, then you’re going to want to use a wet rag. Unlike other cleaning tools, a wet rag can get rid of dirt and grime with minimal effort. Just dampen the rag a little and then use it to wipe away dirt. This is a great way to clean especially dirty windows or to remove stubborn streaks.
Know When to Reach for Help
It’s possible to clean any window without hiring a professional. It just takes time, dedication, and patience. However, if you’re not a pro, you may need some kind of help to bring your windows back to their original state. This might mean hiring a window washer or using some of the professional products that you can find in your local hardware store.
The biggest thing to remember when doing a window wash is to use the right tools. This will make sure that you don’t damage your windows and that the job gets done correctly. Also, don’t forget to rinse your windows after you’re done washing them. It’s important to use soap that won’t damage the window. A clean window lets in the most natural light. It improves your mood and helps set the atmosphere for anything from a family movie night to an evening with one of your most cherished loved ones. If you want to learn how to wash windows properly, read through our tips and tricks above.
