If you’re like most homeowners, you’re probably already getting started on your spring cleaning tasks as you read this. Give your windows the care that they deserve with this guide from Renewal by Andersen® of Cape Cod.
Prepare Your Tools and Supplies
Having the necessary tools and supplies on hand will help streamline later steps in the process. Your tools should include a non-abrasive soft sponge, a squeegee and microfiber cloth. To supply water, you’ll need a bucket and a garden hose that can reach all sides of your home. Never use a pressure washer as this can damage your windows.
You can use cleaning products like off-the-shelf glass cleaners, but if you have low-maintenance windows with vinyl or Fibrex® material frames, all you will need is dish detergent. You may also need white vinegar to remove water spots. Check your windows if you can clean them from the inside — if not, you may have to use a ladder and wear a safety harness to clean the windows completely.
Prepare the Rooms
Clear the areas around the windows to prevent water damage to furniture and other objects in the room. Remove window treatments and turn off air conditioners at their circuit breakers. Apply plastic sheeting on the floor to avoid damaging the flooring material. You can ask members of your household to clear the windows in their respective rooms to save time and to maintain privacy.
It’s important to note that you should clean your windows from the indoors whenever possible, particularly if you have upper-story windows. Depending on the window style, you may be able to tilt or remove the sashes and set them in a safe and comfortable position. Window styles with offset hinges like casement and awning windows should allow full access to all sides of their sashes when opened.
Cleaning the Windows
You can begin cleaning the window exteriors while the interior areas are being cleared. For low maintenance windows, simply splash water on the windows using water from a garden hose. Apply dish detergent on a sponge and use it to scrub stubborn dirt. Use a squeegee (starting at the top right corner of each window pane) to remove water droplets and wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth. While water spots can be removed by soaking them in white vinegar, it’s better to avoid them by wiping the windows dry. Clean each window from the inside, making sure that you’ve thoroughly dried one window before moving on to the next one.
Learn more about how easy it is to clean and maintain Renewal by Andersen replacement windows. Call Renewal by Andersen of Cape Cod at (508) 936-1171 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve communities in Cape Cod, MA.
