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Hard Water and Salt Stains: Tips and Tricks for Getting Windows Clean

January 16, 2019
We might not be known for rain here in San Diego County, but that doesn’t mean your windows never get wet. If you live near the coast in Encinitas or Carlsbad, you likely wind up with salt on your windows. Inland in San Marcos or Escondido, water from sprinklers or hoses can hit your windows. Either one can leave stains and dull your windows. Water from landscaping is often “hard” water, meaning it’s full of minerals like calcium and magnesium, as well as other metals and compounds. The water evaporates, but those mineral deposits stick around — literally. Though glass appears to be a smooth surface to the naked eye, it’s actually porous. If salt and hard water stains are left in place, they can eventually cause permanent damage to your windows. An ounce of prevention — in this case, cleaning — is definitely worth a pound of cure, since at that point your only resort is replacing your windows.

Of course, you aren’t going to race outside and clean your windows every single time you run your sprinklers (though it doesn’t hurt to make sure that you don’t have any faucets that are directly hitting your house or office building). Regular, professional window cleaning can rid your windows of stains from hard water or salt, removing build-up and giving you a clear view once more. Professional window cleaning crews have the equipment to tackle a variety of mineral deposits, not to mention reach windows in inaccessible places.


If you’ve got hard water spots that you want to try to tackle yourself, just rinsing with normal soap and water isn’t enough. Instead of breaking out the Windex, create a solution that’s half water and half white vinegar. Why vinegar? Its acidity helps to break down the minerals, softening up spots that have adhered to your glass. Though it might feel tempting to scrape at the glass, it’s important to be gentle. Soak a chamois cloth or towel in your water and vinegar solution and pressing it against the spots, then wipe to whisk the deposits away. You may need to repeat this process a few times to get rid of the stains.


This same technique can be used to remove salt buildup. Again, it’s important to use a soft cleaner. For really thick salt, you can use a plastic bristle brush, but don’t push down. Another option for caked-on salt is to use a commercial lime removal spray in lieu of the vinegar solution.


One thing to remember when dealing with hard-to-remove hard water stains, salt buildup, and other window issues: If you wind up using too much elbow grease and scratching, scraping, cracking, or even breaking a window, insurance isn’t likely to help you. In contrast, damage from a licensed contractor — like a window cleaning company — is covered. That said, you’re less likely to wind up with any of those outcomes when you are working with professionals. Professional window washers come across problems like salt and mineral deposits regularly, and are experienced in their safe and thorough removal.


If hard water stains or salt buildup is marring your view, call Freedom Window Cleaning today at 760-598-5510 to learn more about our professional, affordable services. We serve residential and commercial customers throughout San Diego and North County, and we’d love to help improve your view!

Freedom Windows Blog

Seasonal Window Cleaning Tips for San Diego Homes

November 19, 2024
In San Diego, where the sun shines year-round and the breeze carries salt from the sea, cleaning windows can be a constant chore. However, with each season bringing its challenges and opportunities, a strategic approach to window cleaning can keep your home looking its best. Here are some seasonal window cleaning tips tailored specifically for San Diego homeowners.  Spring Cleaning: Preparing for Sunshine Spring in San Diego is the perfect time to prepare your windows for the sunny months ahead. The moderate temperatures and lower wind speeds provide ideal conditions for window cleaning. Tips for Spring: Check for Winter Damage: In spect your windows for any damage caused by winter rains, such as leaks or deteriorated seals, and address these issues promptly. Deep Clean: Thoroughly clean both the glass and the window frames to remove any buildup of dirt and grime that accumulated over the cooler months. Clear Out Tracks and Screens: Dirt and debris accumulate in window tracks and screens during winter. Clear these out to ensure smooth operation and clear views. Summer Sparkle: Battling Sun and Salt As the peak of San Diego’s sunny season, summer demands special attention to protect and maintain your window clarity against the relentless sun and corrosive salt air. Tips for Summer: Frequent Light Cleaning: The persistent sunshine can reveal every streak on your windows. Frequent light cleanings can help maintain a streak-free shine without needing deep cleaning every time. Use a Vinegar Solution: To remove salt spray that accumulates from coastal breezes, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray the solution on the glass and wipe it down with a soft cloth to cut through the salt residue. Protective Coatings: Consider applying a water-repellent coating to your windows to make them easier to clean and to help reduce spotting from salt and water. Fall Focus: Preparing for Cooler Weather Fall in San Diego can bring slightly cooler temperatures and the occasional rain, making it a good time to prepare your windows for potential winter storms. Tips for Fall: Inspect Seals and Weatherstripping: Check and replace any worn-out seals and weatherstripping to ensure that your windows are ready to withstand rain. Clean Gutters and Drains: Clear out your home’s gutters and drainage systems to ensure that rainwater is properly directed away from your windows. Thorough Cleaning: Thoroughly clean your windows to remove the dust and dirt accumulated during the dryer summer months. Winter Washing: Maximizing Light San Diego winters are mild, but the shorter days and lower sun angle can make maximized natural light a priority. Tips for Winter: Clean on Overcast Days: Use San Diego’s rare cloudy days to clean your windows. Cleaning without direct sunlight can prevent streaks since the cleaner won’t dry as quickly. Use a Squeegee: After washing your windows with your preferred cleaner, use a squeegee with a smooth rubber blade to avoid water marks and streaks. Regular Checks for Moisture: Check your windows for condensation and moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew, especially during the cooler, wetter months. By following these seasonal tips, San Diego homeowners can keep their windows clean and clear all year round, enhancing their homes' beauty and comfort.

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional for Your Christmas Light Installation

October 28, 2024
As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of Christmas begins to light up with festive decorations and twinkling lights. While many homeowners take pride in decorating their homes, installing Christmas lights can be daunting, time-consuming, and even hazardous. Hiring a professional for your Christmas light installation not only alleviates these concerns but also brings numerous benefits that go beyond just safety. Enhanced Safety Safety is among the most compelling reasons to hire a professional for Christmas light installation. Climbing ladders, handling electrical connections, and maneuvering on rooftops can pose significant risks, particularly for those who are not experienced. Professional installers are trained to handle these challenges safely. They use proper safety gear and protocols to avoid accidents, ensuring your holiday season remains merry and injury-free. Expert Design Consultation Professional Christmas light installers bring design expertise that can transform your home into a winter wonderland. They are knowledgeable about the latest trends and technologies in holiday lighting and can offer creative ideas you might not consider. Whether you want a classic, elegant look with white lights lining your roof or a more elaborate display with multi-colored LEDs, professionals can help design a display that beautifully complements your home’s architecture and landscape. High-Quality Lighting Materials When you opt for professional installation, you also benefit from high-quality lights that are durable and energy-efficient. Professionals use commercial-grade lights designed to withstand winter weather and electrical demands, reducing the likelihood of outages and malfunctions. These lights often provide brighter, more consistent illumination and come with better warranties than the typical retail store offerings. Custom Fitting and Installation Every home is unique, which can challenge fitting strings of lights. Professionals custom-fit the lights to your home, ensuring every inch is perfectly covered without gaps or dangling wires. This custom approach extends to the entire installation, including clips and fasteners that won't damage your home’s exterior. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the final product is stunning and securely installed. Timely Installation and Removal Another significant advantage of hiring professionals is timely installation and removal convenience. You can schedule the installation at a time that suits you, and you won't have to worry about finding time to take everything down after the holidays. Professional services handle all aspects of the setup and takedown, leaving you more time to enjoy the season’s festivities without the added stress. Reliability and Efficiency Professional installers are efficient and reliable. They have the experience to quickly troubleshoot any issues that may arise, from electrical problems to structural challenges. This efficiency means your display will run without lengthy disruptions, and any potential issues can be swiftly addressed. Conclusion While DIY projects can be fulfilling, the benefits of hiring a professional for Christmas light installation are clear and considerable. From ensuring safety and offering design expertise to providing high-quality, custom-fitted lights, professional installers make the process seamless and stress-free. This holiday season, consider hiring a professional to enhance the beauty of your home and guarantee a safe, efficient, and dazzling display that you and your neighbors can enjoy.
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