Window Cleaning Do’s and Don’ts for Homeowners
February 20, 2019
Whether you’re trying to sell your home, having guests over for a party, or you simply want to enjoy your view, having clean windows will make your entire home sparkle. Your windows are a focal point, in and outside of your home, and clean windows give your whole house a visual boost. The opposite is true, too: If your windows have a layer or dirt or grime, it can make the whole place seem less clean than it is. Here’s a couple of do’s and don’ts for maintaining your home’s windows.
Don’t Forget the Interior
Maybe you have a maid service or housekeeper, or you think you’ll just do the insides yourself and only have professional window cleaners take care of the outside. It might seem more practical or cost effective, but it’s usually not. Only professional window cleaners have the tools to really do the job well. Your housecleaning service might leave streaks, and if you mean to do the windows yourself but somehow don’t get around to it… well, you’re going to have clean windows on the outside, but if the interior’s dusty and dirty, the windows just won’t look clean. Freedom Window Cleaning crews are professionally certified, licensed, bonded, and insured. You can trust us to work inside your home — and we’ll make sure to keep your home clean, too.
Do Clean the Windows Last
If you’re having any other services done around your home — anything from landscaping to power washing to painting — it’s best to save the windows for last. Why? You’d be amazed at the dirt and dust that can be stirred up by even minor maintenance, and when it lands on your windows, there goes that cleaning. It’s also important to know that if you’re having any construction or remodeling work done on your home, drywall mud, paint, or even abrasive chemicals can easily make their way onto your windows. Ask your contractors to tape and cover your windows to avert as much of this as possible. Schedule professional window cleaning last, so that your clean windows can be the finishing touch.
Don’t Rely on Mother Nature
Here in San Diego County, we don’t get much rain, which is another reason why dirt, dust, and salt can accumulate on windows. You might think that when there finally is a downpour, it will simply take care of that grime. In fact, rain will only make a dirty window dirtier — it’ll roll right off a clean window. The same goes for the marine layer, if you live in a coastal area like Carlsbad, La Jolla, or Solana Beach. The moisture from the marine layer isn’t helping dissolve salt or sand on your windows — it’s actually cementing it into a layer of grime. To really be able to take advantage of your ocean view, your home may need more frequent cleaning than an inland residence would.
Do Pay Attention to Hard Water Stains
Hard water deposits minerals on glass and other surfaces, leaving white circles and marks that can be difficult to remove. It’s best not to try to take these off on your own. Without the right tools, it’s extremely easy to scratch or scrape the glass — and unlike the hard water stains, that can’t be removed. A professional window cleaning crew can get rid of hard water stains and other mineral deposits, getting you back to a clear view.
Need to schedule window cleaning for your home? Call Freedom Window Cleaning today at 760-598-5510
to learn more about our thorough, reliable service!
Freedom Windows Blog
In San Diego, the mild climate offers unique opportunities for year-round window cleaning, but knowing the best times to tackle this task can enhance the effectiveness of your efforts and ensure your windows remain pristine throughout the year. Here’s a seasonal guide to help San Diego homeowners plan their window cleaning and maintenance activities for optimal results. Spring: Refresh and Repair Ideal Timing: March to May Spring is the quintessential season for cleaning and maintenance, setting the stage for sparkling windows during the sunnier months ahead. Why Spring? Post-Rain Inspection: After the winter rains, checking for any water damage or leaks around the window seals is crucial. Pollen and Dust: Spring blooms bring pollen, which can coat windows and screens. A thorough cleaning can enhance your home’s air quality and clarity of view. Moderate Temperatures: The temperate weather in spring makes it comfortable to work outdoors, and the mild conditions help prevent streaks as cleaning solutions dry more evenly. Spring Cleaning Tips: Use a diluted vinegar solution to tackle any mold or mildew that might have developed during the wetter months. Check and clean the window screens, as pollen and dust can easily get trapped and reduce air quality inside your home. Summer: Maintain and Protect Ideal Timing: June to August Summer in San Diego means long, sunny days and occasionally high temperatures that can pose challenges to window upkeep. Why Summer? Sunlight Exposure: The intense sun can reveal smudges and streaks that were not apparent before. Salt Air: For coastal homes, the summer sea breezes can deposit salt spray on glass, necessitating more frequent cleanings. Summer Cleaning Tips: Clean windows in the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat and reduce the risk of streaks caused by rapid evaporation. Apply a protective film or treatment to the windows to help guard against UV rays and salt damage, extending the lifespan of the glass and frames. Fall: Prepare for Cooler Weather Ideal Timing: September to November Fall is a transitional period, perfect for preparing your windows for the upcoming cooler and occasionally wetter winter months. Why Fall? Pre-Winter Check: Ensuring that windows are in good repair before the rains return can prevent water damage and leaking. Clearing Debris: Fallen leaves and increased rainfall can lead to accumulated debris around window frames and sills that should be cleared to avoid moisture retention. Fall Cleaning Tips: Inspect and replace weather-stripping if necessary to ensure windows are sealed and energy-efficient. Conduct a thorough cleaning to remove any build-up from summer dust and salt, setting the stage for cleaner windows in the winter. Winter: Maximize Light and Visibility Ideal Timing: December to February San Diego winters are mild, making it an excellent time to clean windows to maximize the available daylight and keep your home bright during the shorter days. Why Winter? Optimal Clarity: Clean windows help to make the most of the available sunlight, which is scarcer in winter. Mild Weather Cleaning: San Diego’s winter weather is usually mild enough to allow for comfortable outdoor cleaning. Winter Cleaning Tips: Take advantage of any overcast days to clean windows, as the lack of direct sunlight allows for a streak-free finish. Check for and promptly address any condensation issues that could indicate poor insulation around the window frames. By following this seasonal guide, San Diego homeowners can keep their windows in excellent condition all year round, enhancing their homes' beauty and functionality.
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.
