Clean windows make your whole home look cleaner, and they also tend to suffer less deterioration and damage as they age. However, the process of cleaning windows leaves many Indianapolis home owners with questions. In this article, we answer some of the most common questions homeowners have about window cleaning.
1. How do you clean the outsides of windows safely?
Most newer windows tilt inward so that you can clean the outside of the window from inside your home. If your windows are older and do not have this function, you will have to climb up on a ladder to clean the outside surfaces. Stay safe by ensuring that your ladder is on solid, even ground. Have a friend help you and hold the ladder, and always use some type of belt to hold your equipment so you can climb up the ladder with both hands.
2. Is a squeegee necessary for window cleaning?
While not absolutely essential, a squeegee does make window cleaning much more effective. When you use a cloth or paper towel to clean a window, you are just moving the dirt around. A squeegee scrapes the liquid, along with any dirt, directly off the surface. You can find good window squeegees for residential use for just a few dollars.
3. How can you remove dirt from the crease between the glass and sash?
The crease between the glass and sash does tend to accumulate grime, and if left in place, this grime can contribute to the deterioration of the window and the development of air leaks. A good way to remove the dirt is to dip a cotton swab in cleaning solution, and then drag the cotton swab along the crease. It will pick up dirt as you go.
4. How often should you clean your windows?
This depends on your preferences and the amount of traffic pollution in your area. The outside surfaces of windows should always be cleaned at least once a year, but most Indianapolis home owners are better off cleaning their windows seasonally. This keeps them clear so you can enjoy maximum sunlight in your home. As for the insides of your windows, you can clean those as often as you like — once a month is a good starting point.
5. When is the best time to clean your windows?
If you are only going to clean your windows once a year, do so in the spring so that you are removing any salt buildup after winter. This way, your home will look bright and sunny for the summer. Make sure you choose a cloudy day to clean your windows; this allows them to dry with fewer streaks.
6. What are the benefits of hiring a professional window cleaner?
If the idea of cleaning your own windows seems overwhelming or you are not comfortable climbing on a ladder, you may want to hire a professional window cleaner to come once or twice a year. They have the right equipment to remove stubborn buildup from years of neglect, and they can also reach hard-to-reach windows that may be dangerous for you to access.
Cleaning your windows is a necessary step in order to keep them in good shape. If your windows are beginning to look old and deteriorated, contact Renewal by Andersen. We’ll come conduct a free consultation in your Indianapolis home.
