Clearing the View: Window Washing is Well Worth the Effort

June 29, 2012 - PRLog -- Whether you have new windows, new replacement windows, or traditional original windows, now that summer’s here you want to keep them shiny clean to best enjoy the outside view. The job may seem daunting – but with a little organization and the right materials, you can breeze through this task. A super-clean view is worth it, and you won’t believe the dirt that comes off even if your windows don’t appear to be that messy at the outset.

The folks at SHELLS ONLY Complete Home Improvements have some tips on getting the job done right.

Will you be using a ladder to reach the high panes? Safety is Always Job One. Make sure your ladders are in good order and you have the proper footwear for moving securely up and down ladder steps and step stools – so no flip flops. Also, if you have older children around the house they can help you save time by assisting with the lighter jobs, such as washing screens, rinsing sponges and handing you sponges and squeegee poles. Just give them a heads up; let them know ahead of time so they can clear their busy social calendars to lend you a hand.

To save time, gather your equipment and supplies together so everything is handy and within easy reach.

For screens:

* Bucket of soapy water
* Soft bristle brush
* Access to a garden hose

For windows:

* Squeegee / window washer with telescoping pole; the higher your washer can go, the less time you’ll spend on a ladder.
* Diluted cleaner and bucket; you can use diluted windshield washer fluid for most jobs, and for tougher jobs a cups of white vinegar in a gallon of water should do the trick.
* Clean rags or paper towels

Screen Test

First, you need to remove the screens. Modern, lightweight screens like those used on traditional Andersen® double-hungs can be released and manipulated to come in through the open area of the window – particularly handy when you are on the second (or third) story. Modern replacement windows can be released and flipped inward for cleaning. On the first floor, the screens can be popped out and handed down. If you have a lot of windows, you may want to lightly mark each screen so you remember what unit goes with which window.

It’s easiest to arrange your screens outside where they can be washed with soapy solution and GENTLY hosed off. If your screens aren’t that bad and you have a convenient space, you may just want to wipe them down inside your home with a damp cloth. A vacuum with an upholstery attachment will work. Also, if you have damaged or torn screens, set them aside so they can be repaired in a separate project the next day or next weekend.

Window Dressing

Start by cleaning the outside of the windows first. If your outside windows are difficult to reach from the outside, you can clean them from the inside. Open the windows all of the way to get to the top of the outside window. If it’s a single window, you will have to close the window as much as you can while still being able to reach your hand under to clean the top of the bottom window.

If your windows tilt in, simply clean them by hand or hand-held squeegee. If they don’t tilt in, you’ll need to reach to the top of each window area either by hand or with a telescoping washing tool. Casements and other types of windows usually offer good access. For the first floor windows, especially, you may choose to clean them from the outside. Be careful getting on and off the ladder!

To clean windows, most people use a squeegee or a cloth. Pros use squeegees because they get a window completely dry and there are no streaks. When buying a squeegee, consider the size of your window panes. A detachable telescoping handle is indispensable. Wet your squeegee, and pull horizontally on the glass, and vertically across the middle, then horizontal again at the bottom.

You can also buy a window washer device on a pole. Diluted cleaner in a bucket of water works just as well as Windex® – but keep a bottle of spray handy for those corners and other hard-to-reach areas. Microfiber cloths are another option. They are made of the same material used to clean eyeglasses, computer screens and TVs. These cloths get the windows dry and leave no streaks.

Older windows may have stubborn marks, tape residue or old paint. Avoid using razor blades which can scratch your windows. Opt for mineral spirits on a paper towel or old rag. These solvents can be dangerous so be sure to use in a well-ventilated area and dispose of properly outside of your home.

Now that this job is behind you, kick back and enjoy the classic pop hit, “I Can See Clearly Now” by Johnny Nash.


If you are looking to upgrade your windows, check out the latest in efficient and beautiful window designs at http://www.ShellsOnly.com/Window-Door-Service.html