Have you been cleaning your own windows but can’t seem to get the job done properly? Then it’s time to evaluate what you’re doing wrong. DIY home maintenance may be cheap but it’s not always easy. Window cleaning mistakes can sometimes cause more harm than good. Are you using the right tools? The right solution? The right technique?
If you hire a professional window cleaner, all these issues are taken care of. Glass repair companies will not only clean your windows but also spot problems and offer solutions. They can remove hard stains and restore the damaged glass to its original sparkling look.
Here is a list of common window cleaning mistakes that you should avoid when cleaning your own windows.
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Using the wrong tools
There are five basic tools that are essential to window cleaning:
- Bucket
- Sponge or mop
- Scraper
- Squeegee
- Microfiber cloth
Mix your cleaning solution in a bucket. Dip the sponge or mop to lather up your windows. After rinsing, run the squeegee to get rid of excess water. Finally, dry or polish your windows with a clean microfiber cloth.
Not all cleaning jobs will require a scraper. It is only necessary when your windows have persistent marks and hard stains.
One of the most common window cleaning mistakes is drying glass with newspaper. This is wrong. Newspapers often contain harsh chemicals that can damage your windows. It also contains ink that rubs off on the glass and your hands.
Another no-no in window cleaning is the use of razor blades and tools with abrasive surfaces. They can scratch the glass and ruin your windows permanently. Meanwhile, paper towels may be soft enough but they leave particles behind that make the glass look dirty.
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Scraping too hard
If a soapy wash isn’t enough to remove hardened dirt, then you need to use a scraper. This takes quite a bit of a skill which is why it is best left to the professionals. If you are using a scraper, keep your hand steady and apply even pressure. Be careful not to scratch the glass.
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Applying the wrong cleaning solution
Chemical cleaners may be too harsh and could shorten the life of your glass windows. They are also known to attract dust. If you are making your own solution, be sure to use only ingredients that are approved by professionals.
Water may seem harmless but ordinary tap water actually contains hard minerals that leave behind streaky deposits. If you are using water to clean your windows, consider mineral-free distilled water.
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Wiping with the wrong cloth
Window cleaning mistakes often happen during the drying process. Regular cloth can leave fibers all over the place, ruining all of your hard work. Thus, wipe excess water with a soft, microfiber cloth and never use newspaper to dry windows.
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Not washing in sections
Avoid window cleaning mistakes by washing in sections. If you soap all of your windows at once, you could end up with soapy deposits before rinsing. Having to go back and clean it again is a huge waste of time. It is better to soap, rinse, and dry one section at a time.
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Over-reaching high windows
This is one of those window cleaning mistakes that not only makes the job difficult but dangerous too. If you are cleaning high windows, you need to use a stable ladder. Apply ladder pads to avoid scratching the surface.
Windows that are located on a second or third story might be unsafe for you to clean. It is best to call a professional window cleaner to prevent possible accidents.
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Cleaning windows on a hot, sunny day
This is one of those window cleaning mistakes that may sound harmless but can actually hamper your work. It’s bright and sunny outside and it’s probably the perfect time to get some outdoor cleaning done. It is not! Too much sunshine is not your friend. As you soap one side and move to the next section, the hot sun dries the window quickly. You’ll end up with streaks and marks before you are able to rinse.
Window cleaning professionals recommend that you wash your windows on a cloudy day. Outdoor temperatures of around 70° are ideal. This way, you’ll have enough time to remove the cleaning solution before it starts to dry.
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Not paying close attention
You have just cleaned a window and everything looks sparkling clean as you polish. Then you step back and look at the window from another viewpoint. You will probably notice streaks and smudges across the glass.
Make it a habit to look at the glass from different angles. This can be difficult if you have plenty of windows. Many homeowners prefer to simply call a professional window cleaner for this task.
Call a Professional to Avoid Window Cleaning Mistakes
Save time and energy. Professional glass cleaners like Glass King can probably finish the job in half the time it would take you to do it.
Safety. Glass repair companies are equipped with the necessary tools and experience to clean all of your windows safely.
Expertise. You might not be able to spot potential hazards if you do not have a trained eye. Maybe your windows have wood rot or artillery fungus, or maybe the locks do not open in case of fire. These are safety risks that only experts can diagnose. An expert should also know how to treat and restore damaged glass.
