Window Cleaning, Tips and Techniques

May 26, 2010
By
cleaning exterior windows with a squeegee

*squeek* *squeek*

I stand outside my home and I look up at the spotted windows.  And like most of us, I think (I dread) doing my exterior window cleaning.  Experts recommend cleaning the windows twice a year in the spring and fall, but most home owners may only clean windows from the outside once every second year at the most!  Why? Because we can’t reach high windows easily….

Hiring a contractor to wash their exterior windows yields the best results and is the easiest approach for those who can budget for this work.  But if you do decide to tackle this job on your own, here are a few tips!

  1. Safety is number one.  Avoid climbing a ladder and buy a squeegee, scrubber and a pole at your local hardware store, or we recommend the “Pro Washing Set” from Lee Valley Tools for $69.50 CDN.  Second level windows can be washed from the ground with this product, and with some trial and error, you’ll have great results and a great tool for many years to come.
  2. Streaky windows are frustrating, so don’t wash your exterior windows in direct sunlight.   Streaking is often caused by the direct sunlight drying the residue of the washed  window too quickly.
  3. For ground level windows, use window cleaning solution and paper towel (or try newsprint) to dry.   Newsprint is dense at first but, trust us, it works well!
  4. For a bulk cleaning solution, try this home made recipe of 20 parts water, 5 parts white vinegar and 1 part dish soap.  The soap and vinegar will cut the grease and dirt for a streak free result without breaking the budget!

And remember, clean windows do make a difference!

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2 Responses to Window Cleaning, Tips and Techniques

  1. Medicine Ball Exercises on June 3, 2010 at 10:18 pm

    Great information! I’ve been looking for something like this for a while now. Thanks!

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