Feeling the warm sun leaking in through your home’s windows is such an inviting feeling. Nothing ruins that more than looking out to soak up that sun and realizing your windows are dirty. Ugh! Those windows definitely need to be cleaned but either don’t have the time to do it or you don’t have the budget to hire a professional right now. Here are a few things to consider before getting your windows cleaned or doing it yourself.
Consider a Professional First
We always recommend that you contact a professional when completing work around your home. Your home is often your largest asset and we care about it just as much as you do. When searching for a professional company to clean your home’s exterior and windows, look for a company who uses a Soft Wash method. Soft Washing uses a very low pressure and relies on a biodegradable solution to clean your home. This low pressure method is safer your siding and your windows. The solution combined with the soft wash will remove the mildew, algae, and dirt on your home and windows and it prevents it from growing back for a much longer time than traditional pressure washing.
Some soft wash companies also offer additional window cleaning options. Here are Red Door Pro Wash, we offer an innovative window cleaning method that works with Pure Water and it not only provides a better clean but also a longer lasting clean. We like to say its like Rain-X on your car windshield. The Pure Water system that we use makes your windows Hydrophobic and any dirty or water that lands on the window throughout the year, will bead up and run right off.
Don’t forget to ask your company about their insurance and liability coverage. A true professional company will take the measures to eliminate any potential damage. However, if something were to happen, your home needs to be covered with an appropriate insurance and liability coverage.
Use Low Pressure
If you decide to take on the task of cleaning your window yourself, be sure to use a low pressure water source. Many homeowners have a pressure washers laying around in the garage and that may be tempting to use in order to save a few bucks. However, using a pressure washer with high pressure can easily damage parts around your home and most importantly your windows! Glass windows require very little pressure to crack or shatter. (Just ask your neighbor about that tiny little rock that broke his window when he was mowing). We recommend using your garden hose rather than your pressure washer. We know it feels cool to be out there like G.I.Joe with heavy equipment, and if you absolutely must use the pressure washer, be sure to set it on the lowest setting and follow the tips below as well.
Use a Wide Angle Spray
If using your garden hose or your power washer at home, be sure to use the widest fan tip available. The thinner the spray width, the more pressure it will pack. A 0 degree width is guaranteed to shatter your windows, costing you a fortune to replace to your windows. A fan width of 40 degrees will help to even out the pressure and reduce the cause for concern.
Keep Your Distance
Keeping a safe distance of 10ft away from your windows will help to reduce the pressure applied to the windows as well. If you need to move closer, do so slowly. This will allow you to feel the difference between the pressure as you approach. If you begin to feel significant push back, it may mean you are too close and there is too much pressure on your windows.
Use a Solution
While you may not have easy access to the same biodegradable solution or the Pure Water System that the professionals use, you can use a homemade solution of 1 part vinegar and 2 parts water in a spray bottle. This solution will work great with your gentle pressure from your water hose. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the windows and dry them for a streak free finish.
