Renewal by Andersen® window replacement products feature unique designs for easy cleaning. Whether it’s a simple picture window or a unique specialty window with a complex operation, we make it a point to build our products with easy and simple maintenance as one of our defining features. Still, many homeowners remain baffled about how to properly clean certain styles, particularly casement windows.
What Is a Casement Window?
Casement windows, also known as crank windows, often open at 90-degree angles to pivot outwards with the help of a crank. These windows attach to a frame with one or more hinges on the side, making them a great choice for hard-to-reach places like behind a sink. Casement windows offer many benefits over other styles, including improved efficiency, exceptional security, many design variations and incredible ventilation.
What Do You Need for Cleaning Casement Windows?
You don’t need special cleaning solvents or tools to clean casement windows, but it’s still important to have the right supplies to achieve a beautiful shine for unobstructed views. You can use glass cleaner and paper towels for quick cleaning or opt for a water, vinegar and detergent solution with a microfiber cloth. It may also be helpful to use a small squeegee to remove debris and the cleaning solution from areas near the frame.
How to Clean a Casement Window
Cleaning your casement windows is easy. Just follow these steps for beautiful results:
Make a cleaning solution: Gather your cleaning supplies and prepare your solution. You can use any glass cleaning product to wipe down the glazing on your casement window. Alternatively, you can make a cleaning mixture using 1 cup of vinegar, 1 cup of water and several drops of a mild liquid detergent. Use this mixture with a microfiber dishcloth or any nonabrasive sponge to wipe down all surfaces. You may use this same solution to clean both the interior and exterior frame, trims and sashes as well.
Prepare the windows: Depending on what type of accessories you have on your window, preparation steps may vary. If you have an insect screen attached to the interior sash, unclip it and set it aside. Do the same with any interior grille you might have on the window. You can easily lift away Renewal by Andersen® grilles from the edges of the frame. The grille clips are not detachable, and you must not force them out even after removing the grille.
Open the windows: Open your windows to a 90-degree angle. This angle will give you access to the window’s interior and exterior for a thorough cleaning.
Wipe the glass and frame: Clear away loose dirt and dust before applying your cleaning solution. You can use a dry microfiber cloth or paper towel to accomplish this step.
Clean the window with your solution: Use your glass cleaner or cleaning mixture to clean the window and around the edges. Apply a generous amount of the solution and focus on one window at a time to avoid making a mess. It may help to place a towel under your workspace to catch any drippings or debris. Wipe one side of the window and wait to complete the other until you’ve finished the rest of these steps for the first side.
Use your squeegee: Run the squeegee over the top of the window in a straight horizontal line to pull dirt and window cleaner from the glass. Use a clean cloth to wipe the tool clean after completing every row, gradually working your way down the glass. If you don’t have a squeegee, use a clean cloth or paper towel for each row to capture dirt without spreading it as you move down the window.
Cleanup: Use a dry cloth to clear away any leftover debris or cleaner. Look closely around the window to ensure no dirt or other materials will stick to the window when you close it.
Repeat for the other side: Repeat steps four through seven for the other side of your window and for all subsequent casement windows you want to clean.
Close your windows: Start by replacing the interior grilles back into place. You’ll need to use a little force to get the grille clips to “catch” the grille itself. If you have an insect screen on your window replacement, you may position it back on its wing clip fasteners and lock it back in place.
Contact Renewal by Andersen for Proper Window Care
The team at Renewal by Andersen works to understand the unique challenges of each homeowner looking for home improvements, and we are committed to improving properties throughout our local community. Along with providing expertise and experience, we offer a vast selection of stylish, energy-efficient and durable doors and windows to meet the needs of everyone in our service area.
We proudly share our knowledge with our customers, including how to properly care for your windows and doors. You can learn more about the proper care and use of our replacement window products from our professionals at Renewal by Andersen of San Francisco. Give us a call at 866-609-5033, or fill out our online contact form to set up a free, no-obligation, in-home consultation. We serve all areas in and around San Francisco, California.
