Welcome to Blog #2: Whether selling your home or just adding quality to your most important investment, clean windows make a difference and the cost to maintain your windows is not expensive. Here are the top 5 reasons why you need to see the light about clean windows, and what you can do to clean stubborn surfaces:
1. Glass is a porous surface. Simple things like dirt, sap and shredded autumn leaves easily penetrate glass. In a short period, your window glass can develop cracks, irreversible stains, and clouding. Dirty, damaged windows are a major red flag when selling your home and it can lead to window replacement, which is not cheap. Invest your time wisely so you don’t feel the need to replace your windows. Make sure to stay on top of it, or contact an expert who can schedule routine visits to do it for you.
2. Get rid of decals fast. Have kids that love to spread their love of decals and stickers all over the house? A sticker left on a window can damage that window over time. The fix is easy. All you need is a spray bottle filled with water and a plastic scraper with a good edge. Spray the stickers with water and let it sit for a couple minutes. Hold the scraper against the window at a 45-degree angle and apply gentle pressure. Start below the stickers and scrape upwards to get underneath. Use a towel to wipe away the water.
3. Vinegar…really? A few times a year, treat your home's windows to a vinegar wash. Fill a plastic spray bottle with one part distilled white vinegar and one part hot water. This will remove built-up grime and give the glass a sleek, crystal-like finish. Spray an even layer of the vinegar solution over the window, and use a soft, clean sponge to work it into the glass. Don't over-saturate the glass, which will make the moisture hard to remove. Use a dry, lint-free cloth or a squeegee to dry the glass.
4. Is cleaning window screens necessary? We have discussed windows, but what about the screens? Is it really necessary to clean the window screens too? The answer is yes. For inside and outside windows, clean the screens every time you clean the windows. This should be at least twice a year. You can do this by removing the screens and vacuuming them to remove the dust and dirt. Then, use a hose or a spray bottle filled with water to lightly spray the screen before and after you wipe it down. With a clean cloth or sponge, wipe them down with warm water mixed with a small amount of vinegar or dish soap. Allow the screens to air dry fully before replacing them putting them back.
5. Don’t forget windowsill dirt. Once you’ve handled the window frame and screens, don’t forget dirt can sift in underneath the frame. Allowing that dirt to stay there unnoticed can lead to wood rot and significant window damage. Remove the dirt and vacuum. Wash the surface to make certain all hidden corners are clean.
Do you have tips of your own in cleaning your home windows? Share them here. We welcome your recommendations!
