Tips for Window Cleaning in the Spring

Home Maintenance Tips

Though some chores can seem like drudgery, it’s a good idea to tackle them early in the spring, so you can relax and enjoy the summer months. Window cleaning is a task that may that seem boring, but it actually gives you an opportunity to check around your window frames to see if the seals are still intact. Cold, wintry weather can cause the rubber and seals around your windows to break down, which can cause an increase in electric bills. This can also allow dirt, debris and insects to get inside. Leaks and cracks around windows and doors may cause wood deterioration. Condensation between the panes of glass in double-pane windows should be addressed right away. If left unaddressed for too long, you may need replacement windows.

Cleaning Window Screens

While you’re cleaning the windows, why not take out the screens and clean them too? Screens are usually not difficult to remove. Simply prop them up against the side of the house and give them a good scrubbing with a non-abrasive brush and a household cleaner. Spray both sides with the water hose and let them dry before putting them back up. If your windows vary a great deal in size, either mark where each screen came from or leave them sitting right under the window in which they belong.

If you’re considering replacing your windows, Stanek double-hung and sliding windows come with Flexscreen, a revolutionary flexible screen that allows you to remove and install the screens easily.

Window Washing Tips

You will need a good squeegee, some clean, dry cloths and a spray bottle of window cleaning solution. If you want to take an environmentally friendly route (which we recommend), then a solution of warm water and vinegar will do the trick and get your windows clean.

Vinegar is a miracle from nature. Completely non-toxic and anti-bacterial, vinegar is actually beneficial to any surface it touches. It safely kills germs and is much more economical than chemical cleaning solutions. It’s not even harmful when accidentally inhaled or ingested. (If you’ve got kids and/or pets, you’ll love that part).

The acidic composition of vinegar acts quickly to break down the kind of film that frequently accumulates on glass surfaces. When you wash a window using a solution that contains vinegar, the results will almost always be free from streaks and sparkling clean.

Recipe for Vinegar Window Washing Solution

Martha Stewart included a section with detailed recommendations for window washing on her website under cleaning and organizing. Below are a few choice tips, along with her vinegar window-washing recipe.

Mix one part hot water to one part distilled vinegar.
With a sponge, wet, but don’t drench, the window and rub to clean. Try not to get the solution on the window frames.
Dampen a squeegee, then pull down from the top, wiping the edge of the squeegee after every stroke. Repeat, slightly overlapping each stroke.
Clean only when there is no direct sun on the windows.
Rinse and dry the window immediately.

Green Living, from National Geographic, has these additional tips.

For extremely grimy glass, prewash with very soapy water, then go to the vinegar solution.
For highly resistant spots, try rubbing hard with a cloth dipped in undiluted vinegar.

If streaks still remain on your windows, they are probably from the residue left by commercial cleaning products. To remove the film, use a mix of 2 cups of water, 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon dishwashing detergent combined in a spray bottle. Spray the window and clean. For extremely dirty windows, warm one cup of full-strength white vinegar and use directly on the glass to clean.

The Best Wipes

You can ensure a streak-free, squeaky-clean window by using one of the above tips and wiping with paper towels, microfiber cloths or newspaper. Whatever you use, make sure its lint-free.

HINT: Squeegees are harder to get the hang of, but they almost always do a better job. Some brands and types of windows are much easier to clean than others. Stanek® windows offer many easy-to-clean options that can make cleaning stress free. Our Casement Windows crank open to a 90-degree angle so you can reach both the interior and exterior from the inside, and our Double-hung Windows tilt inward, to make cleaning the exterior of your windows easier and safer.

When you have Stanek windows installed in your home, the chore of window cleaning will be a breeze. Plus, if you do notice any issues with your windows, just give us a call and we’ll set up a service appointment to address the problem.

If your windows and doors are looking old and tired, it may be time to replace them. Stanek’s replacement windows are custom made to fit the exact size of your window opening or we can alter the opening or change the type of window from what you currently have. You can choose from many styles including Double-hung, Casement, Bay, Sliding and many more. We also offer a wide array of finishes such as interior woodgrain and eight exterior colors. Our energy-efficient windows add beauty, charm, and value to your home.

If you’re ready to purchase replacement windows or doors for your home, schedule your free, in-home estimate with Stanek Windows today.

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