Cleaning your windows regularly is important. It makes your office building look much better from the outside, allowing you to have a clear view when you’re inside.
But on top of keeping your windows clean, performing a few maintenance tasks on them through the years can help you save a lot of money. Windows that are cracked or have damaged hardware will need to be repaired or replaced, which can be expensive.
Plus, ensuring your windows are sealed properly can help you save money on your energy bills while making your home more comfortable in the winter.
Sounds like a good plan? Here are seven simple window cleaning and maintenance tips for you.
Tip #1: Clean your windows regularly
Be sure to keep your windows clean and free of dust, dirt, debris, water stains, and bird droppings. You might be fine with cleaning them twice a year, but depending on different factors, you might need to clean them more often.
One of the easiest ways to clean windows is to use a squeegee, along with a bucket of warm water, in which you add a mild window cleaner. Choose a cloudy day to ensure the solution will not dry too quickly and leave streaks.
Dip the squeegee in the bucket and clean the window with vertical strokes. When you’re done, wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth. Don’t forget to clean the window frames also.
Alternatively, you can rely on window cleaning services to do all of this. This might be a better option if you have second-story windows that are hard to reach.
Tip #2: Pay attention to the hardware of your windows
Window hardware, such as handles, locks, tracks and hinges, should also be cleaned regularly. But on top of keeping them clean, you have to inspect them occasionally to ensure they are in good working condition.
Look for rust or damage, which could make it difficult for you to open, close, and lock your windows. If it looks like some parts might need to get replaced, get them replaced as soon as possible.
Once in a while, lubricate the moving parts of your window hardware with a silicone-based lubricant.
Tip #3: Inspect the glass for chips or cracks
Each time you clean your windows, you should inspect their glass. If you notice any cracks or chips, consider getting the damaged window repaired. If you wait for small imperfections in the glass to worsen, you might need to spend a lot of money on replacing it.
To make sure you don’t scratch or chip the glass of your windows, remember to only use a squeegee, soft cloths, and gentle cleaners to clean them.
Tip #4: Remove dust and debris from your window screens
Window maintenance tips also apply to your window screens. When you clean your windows, remove the screens so you can also clean them.
Bringing them outside and rinsing them with a hose is a good idea. If you notice stubborn debris stuck in a window screen, carefully wash it with a soft brush and warm, soapy water. Let the screens dry before you put them back in place.
If you notice tears or holes in your window screens, consider getting them replaced.
Tip #5: Make sure your window frames are sealed properly
If you feel drafts around some of your windows, you must do something about it.
Inspect your window frames for gaps or cracks, and check if their caulking and weatherstripping are still intact. If damaged, carefully remove the old caulk before applying a new one.
Ensure your windows are sealed properly, and no air can come in or out when closed. This should help reduce your energy bills while making your home more comfortable.
Tip #6: Clean your window treatments
Having clean windows is something to be proud of. But what if your curtains, shades or blinds are dusty? You have to clean them too, of course.
Check if your curtains can be washed in a washing machine. Suppose they can’t use the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from them. As for shades or blinds, you can remove dust from them with a damp cloth.
Tip #7: Insulate your windows each winter
Insulating your windows can’t hurt before winter, even when your windows are sealed properly. This will help make them more energy efficient.
Window insulation film is easy to install. You must apply adhesive tape to the window trim and then apply the film before shrinking it with a hair dryer to remove wrinkles.
When winter ends, you can safely remove the film and the tape before cleaning your windows to prepare them for spring.
