Living in South Florida has several advantages, including year-round pleasant weather. When you’re relaxing in the backyard, you may see smudges and windows that appear ragged if you haven’t had a chance to clean them recently.
You have a dog who “knocks” to come in, licks the window, or kids playing around, for instance. Dirty windows are an unavoidable aspect of life in any home. They limit the light in your home, collect dust, and lower air quality. Window cleaning is made simple in this post, along with some helpful tips.
You have a choice on the supplies you use, you can create your own solution or buy a brand you trust. It’s best to use something lint-free like a microfiber cloth in order to avoid streaks. To create your own solution you just need a spray bottle, water, vinegar or lemon juice, and the essential oil of your choice. (The oil is not necessary)
White vinegar can be used as a non-toxic cleaning ingredient for your home. It fights away dirt, grease, and streaks on your window. You can find full instructions here.
Pro Tips For Cleaning Windows:
- Don’t clean windows in direct sunlight. You don’t want the soap to dry quickly.
- Clear off the dust before getting the windows wet. (Don’t forget the window frame!)
- Use plenty of product
- Use a microfiber cloth! This is the most important part of the cleaning process.
- Avoid fabric softener to clean the microfiber cloth.
- Don’t use alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners; they leave streaks and a thin film.
Steps to Clean Inside The Window
- Get a gallon of warm water and add about one tablespoon of dawn dish soap.
- Set down a rag or towel underneath the window you’re washing to catch any drips.
- Spray down the window with your solution or brand window cleaner.
- Go over the surface with the damp microfiber cloth. Start at the top of the window, working your way down. (in Z formation)
- Dry the window with a dry, clean (lint-free) microfiber towel. Go in a “Z” formation. (from the top) Paper towels work too, only if necessary.
- Still, seeing streaks? Sometimes if you have stubborn dirt you will need to repeat this process. By the second or third time, you’ll have crisp clear windows again.
Outside Window Cleaning
There are a few extra measures for outdoor windows. The steps for cleaning the inside windows are repeated. For one thing, you’ll want to clean the glass surface with a rubber-bladed squeegee.
Use a dry clean towel to freshen your squeegee at the bottom of the window. You also have to take your screen out, rinse it with a hose, and let it air dry.
For stubborn dirt, make sure the area is completely saturated with the solution and leave it to sit for a few minutes before rubbing it with a non-scratch scrub sponge. If your sprinklers leave mineral deposits or stains, you may want to invest in a “CLR” (calcium, lime, and rust remover.)
When It’s Time To Replace Your Windows
- Your windows have swollen up over time and do not open and close with ease.
- Decaying frames and visible moisture exposure, eventually cause mold growth.
- You can hear your neighbor, dogs barking or a car coming down the street.
- Fog between two panels of glass.
- Your energy cost is high
- You don’t have storm protection
Impact Windows in South Florida
Contact Locktight Impact Windows for a free estimate if any of these apply to you. In South Florida, Locktight has more than 50 years of experience in project design and installation of Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors.
Our goal is to assist you in selecting the best solutions to safeguard your home and family at the most affordable prices. We are excited to meet with you and offer you helpful information on one of the most significant and crucial home improvement projects you will undertake.
