Windows allow more natural light into your home, brightening the interiors and making them look warm and inviting. They also do wonders for increasing your home’s aesthetic value, which is why it is crucial to keep them sparkling clean and polished as often as possible. Windows covered in dirt and water stains make a property look unkempt, and when opened, they can potentially introduce dust and other hazardous substances into your home.
Cleaning your windows is relatively straightforward, although that doesn’t mean there isn’t a right way to do it. You’ll have to use the appropriate equipment, cleaning solutions and use the proper techniques. To keep your windows looking their best, here are five typical window cleaning mistakes to avoid:
1. Using the Wrong Equipment
Using the wrong equipment to clean your windows can do more harm than good. For instance, using newspapers to dry your wet glass windows will leave ink stains that can be almost impossible to remove. Using materials with an abrasive surface, like razor blades, often result in permanent damage to the glass.
Instead, use the appropriate cleaning solution to eliminate dust and dirt on your windows. A sponge or a mop is a great way to lather up the window, and a squeegee effectively removes the excess water. For polishing and drying the glass, microfiber cloth works best. If any stubborn stains remain, scrapers will do the trick.
2. Washing Only One Side of the Window
Another mistake many homeowners make is washing only the inner portion of the glass window since this is more accessible. Others clean only the outside portion since it is exposed to the elements, making it more susceptible to accumulating dirt and dust. However, filth can gather on both sides of the windowpane, so it’s important to clean both portions equally to enjoy a radiant, squeaky finish.
3. Cleaning From the Center to the Sides and Corners
Some homeowners tend to clean their glass windows from the bottom or center first, gradually working their way in outward motions. However, this will only make things harder, as the soapy water will flow to areas that they have already washed and cleaned. Instead, wipe from the top and eventually work your way down, which will ensure that you’ve cleaned and scrubbed every corner. However, it’s best to leave it to a window cleaning company, as they’ll get the job done quickly and efficiently.
4. Washing Windows on a Hot, Sunny Day
It may seem like a good idea to clean your windows on a hot, sunny day since your windows will dry up faster. However, it will also dry up the soap on your windows, leaving unsightly streaks and requiring you to scrub them down over and over. The best time to clean your windows is during a cloudy day, as your soap water won’t evaporate as fast.
5. Using the Hard Scraping Technique
Lastly, the hard scraping technique is done to scrub off hard stains on glass windows. It is a technique that should be done only by professionals since it requires more skill and a precise level of caution to avoid damaging your windows. Still, some homeowners do hard scraping on their windows even when it isn’t necessary, leaving scratches and marks that are no longer possible to remove.
Instead, leave the hard scraping to residential window cleaning professionals, as they are experts in the technique. They know how to make your windows look immaculate without damaging them, even when doing hard scraping.
Conclusion
Cleaning your windows is a crucial part of maintaining your home and making it look beautiful and well-kept. However, you’ll need to avoid making these common window cleaning mistakes to make the most out of your glass panes. By trusting window washing services with the job, you’ll have spotless windows that offer you a clear view of your surroundings.
Call Pittsburgh Service is a property maintenance company offering various services, like holiday light installation, lawn maintenance, pressure washing, and window cleaning services. Contact us today at (412) 353-6018 for a free quote!