Dos & Don’ts: How to Clean Windows & Window Screens
Jun 14, 2021Clean windows are a great place to start for a sparkling spring! Use these Spring Window cleaning Tips to get started.
Spring and summer are the perfect times of year to take care of routine window maintenance. And the payoff of bright, clear windows is worth the little bit effort it takes to clean windows and window screens. We asked our expert window installation team for dos and don’t on how to clean window and window screens properly. They delivered – and offered three more tips to make sure your clean windows are in good shape for this season’s beautiful weather!
How to Clean Windows the right way
If you don’t clean your windows regularly, dirt and debris that can build up and reduce the amount of natural light allowed into your home. Besides a dingy view, this dirt can potentially impact the strength of your window glass and the longevity of your windows.
Follow these easy dos and don’ts to keep your window glass crystal clear:
- Do use a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution to remove dirt, residue, and other contaminates.
- Do dry off the window seals, gaskets, and frames after cleaning
- Do use a rubber squeegee, cloth, or paper towel to remove cleaning solution.
- Do clean a small window and check that no damage will occur from the solution or tools used.
- Don’t clean tinted or coated glass in direct sunlight.
- Don’t use scrapers or razor blades to clean glass, as they may cause irreparable damage to the glass surface and coatings.
- Don’t use abrasive cleaning solutions or materials on glass.
- Don’t allow dirt and residue to remain on glass surfaces for an extended period of time.
how to clean window screens — Plus 3 Spring Window Cleaning & Tips
In addition to safely cleaning your window’s glass surfaces, warm weather is the perfect time for some additional easy window maintenance updates.
Remove & Spray Window Screens
Most window screens are designed with tension fittings that allow homeowners to pop them out for cleaning and replace them easily. With the screens released, spray down the window screens with a garden hose to remove any built-up grime and debris. You can clean screens with dishsoap or another mild cleaner if you like, but it’s usually not necessary. When you’re finished, simply snap the screens back in place.
Wipe Down Window Frames & Tracks
While the screens are removed, give your window frames and tracks a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or mild cleaner. Keeping these channels free of dirt and debris helps ensure that the sashes sit securely in the frames and seal tightly when the windows are locked.
How to Tilt Windows for Cleaning
Forget the hassle of climbing a ladder to clean windows from outside your home. One of the biggest benefits of double-hung windows is that each sash can be released from the frame and tilted in for easy cleaning.
Watch the video to see the process in action!
Use these easy steps to tilt in your double-hung windows:
- Ensure any locks are in the “unlocked” position.
- Starting with the bottom sash, open the window a few inches.
- With the window slightly open, squeeze both tilt latches on the top of the sash toward each other. This will release the sash from the frame and allow you to gently tilt the window inward until it rests in the open position.
- Repeat the same steps for the top sash (the bottom sash must be opened before the top sash can be released from the frame). Begin by lowering the top sash a few inches from the top of the window frame, then squeeze the tilt latches together to tilt the sash inward.
- When you’ve finished cleaning the exterior surfaces, work in reverse order to replace the sashes. Simply tilt the top sash back up and push it forward into the frame until it snaps into place, then fully raise it to close the sash. Repeat with the bottom sash, and you’re all set!
Check for Smooth Window Operation
As you work on cleaning your window screens, frames, and tracks, pay close attention to how each of your windows opens and closes.
- Are the sashes riding smoothly in the tracks?
- Are they as easy to open and close as used to be?
- Are the windows free of condensation between the glass panes?
- Do all the locks, stops, and latches secure the window properly?
If you answered “no” to any of these questions, it may be time to consider replacing your windows for safety, functionality, and energy efficiency. Click here to learn more.
Is it time for a window upgrade?
If you’re noticing any problems with your window operation, condensation inside your windows, or drafty windows at any time of year, it might be time for a window replacement. Our quick one-question quiz can help you determine how much life is left in your current windows. Remember – the longer you wait to replace your windows, the more likely you are to lose money from lost energy efficiency.
Improveit’s Performax54 windows come complete with a lifetime warranty that covers labor, broken seals, and glass breakage. Our current customers know that if they find any issues with their windows during these maintenance steps, they can call us for responsive repairs.
Ready to learn more about adding Performax54 windows to your home? Give us a call today at 855-637-2999 – we can’t wait to help you improve your home with confidence!
