17 Oct Window Cleaning: Best Practices to Remember
Even low-maintenance windows, like Renewal by Andersen® of Central Florida products, need routine care and attention. However, cleaning them could backfire on you when done in the wrong way.
To keep your double-hung, casement, bay, bow, specialty, picture and sliding window systems beautiful and functional, remember these best practices:
Pick Mild Solutions over Abrasives
No matter how hard dirt buildup is to clean, never apply harsh chemicals to any part of the window. Regardless of what material the component is made of, doing so will likely lead to product damage, which can potentially void your warranty. When that happens, you’ll assume responsibility for the cost of replacement parts and labor necessary to repair it.
Rather, use a mild mixture of soap and water to wash frames, sashes, grilles and panes. Diluted vinegar or a liquid window cleaner can be an alternative to soapy water for the glass.
Choose the Right Wiping Material
Protect the frames and sashes of bay, bow, specialty and picture windows from abrasion with a soft cloth. It helps keep the integrity of the finish, paint or stain. Never use ink-based paper products to avoid discoloration.
For the glass, a handheld sponge and a squeegee is excellent for scrubbing and cleaning the surface. To dry it, a lint-free cloth is ideal to avoid leaving tiny pieces of thread on the surface. Also, always use a fresh cloth to avoid bringing any dirt back.
Avoid the Sun
Spraying a glass cleaner in direct sunlight might leave residue. Ideally, you should clean when the temperature is anywhere between 40°F and 85°F.
Vacuum Dust
Clear dust or debris before it accumulates on sills and in tracks. This is the most effective means of keeping double-hung, sliding and casement window panels from sticking.
Use a Dry Lubricant
When maintaining moving parts, steer clear of wet lubricants. They might get the job done, but they could damage components, and cause dirt and other corrosive particles to collect.
Upkeep is always a part of window ownership, but you can avoid maintenance nightmare with Renewal by Andersen of Central Florida. Call us at (407) 512-5504 now to schedule your free, in-home consultation to learn how our windows make cleaning painless, and receive a free estimate. We serve Orlando, Florida, and the surrounding communities.