Experts recommend Window Cleaning Sarasota inside and out at least twice per year. It’s also a good idea to clean them on a regular basis, especially in areas where pollen, bird droppings and road salt are common.
Start by wiping away dirt and debris with a dry microfiber cloth or chamois. Use a fan-shaped motion with the cleaner to avoid leaving streaks.
There are a number of different cleaning methods used by window cleaners, including vinegar solutions, soapy water solutions, and commercial glass cleaners. Some of these can be used as sprays, while others are applied with cloths or sponges. It’s important to know which cleaning solution to use for each type of stain, as different solutions work better on certain types of stains.
For most windows, a basic vinegar solution is sufficient. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then apply to the window. After spraying, wipe the surface with a microfiber cloth or sponge and proceed to rinse the window, working from top to bottom to prevent drips. If necessary, a small amount of dish soap may be added to the solution, depending on the level of dirt.
If cleaning high windows, a sponge mop may be required. The mops can be used on either the hose or water wand, and can be cleaned with either a vinegar and water solution or a commercial cleaner. The mops can be used on both the inside and outside of the windows, but it’s important to remember that the frames, grids, and hardware must be rinsed thoroughly so they don’t streak or leave residue behind.
After rinsing the windows, the cleaner must be dried. It’s best to do this using a squeegee or clean, lint-free towel. If using a squeegee, start at the top and pull down straight across the window, wiping the blade clean after each pass. If drying by hand, use a clean cloth or newspaper sheets.
It’s important to wash and dry windows in a cloudy or shaded area, rather than direct sunlight. Sunlight speeds up the drying process of window cleaning solutions, which can cause streaking or spotting on the windows. It’s also a good idea to work on one window at a time, rather than several windows at once. It’s easier to spot streaks when washing a single window, and it allows you to concentrate on the areas that need more attention. If stains persist, try using a scouring pad or a brush, or make a paste with water and oxalic acid cleaner (such as Zud or Bar Keepers Friend) to scrub the stains.
Cleaning Equipment
Professional and experienced window cleaners invest quite a bit in their cleaning tools and equipment. They generally have a ladder or scaffolding that can reach the windows they are cleaning and several other specialized tools. These tools can range from a basic sponge to a stainless steel scraper.
A squeegee is perhaps the most important tool in any window washer’s kit. This T-shaped tool with a rubber blade clears cleaning solution and dirt from the glass surface, leaving the window streak free. It is essential that this tool be of high quality and regularly maintained. Many manufacturers offer replacement blades for their squeegees.
Another common tool used by professionals is a scrub pad, which can be particularly helpful for cleaning tough build-ups such as bird droppings or insect remains. It is also useful for removing hard-to-reach areas such as corners or windowsills. Some professionals use a grade #0000 stainless steel wool pad to remove more stubborn gunk and debris such as dried paint or cement.
Other specialized tools include a screen cleaner, which is a portable device that attaches to a water hose and consists of a frame that has brushes and running water. Dirty window screens can be inserted into the device and scrubbed, then rinsed clean.
Other tools that are commonly used in the field by professional window cleaners include a sleeve that allows the worker to hold and control a squeegee without using their hands. They may also use a sleeve that can be stuffed with general cotton, lint-free microfiber cloths or abrasive scrubbing pads.
Lastly, most professionals will also carry a set of tools for cleaning stairwells and other difficult-to-reach areas. These may include a broom, a dustpan and a hand-held mop. The broom can be particularly useful for removing loose debris from staircases and landings, while the dustpan can be helpful for collecting small debris and rubbish.
Regardless of the type of window cleaning you perform, it is crucial to have the right tools and supplies at your disposal. This will help you get the job done faster and better while keeping your team safe.
Cleaning Techniques
Professional window cleaners have a variety of cleaning methods they use depending on the size, shape and number of windows. However, one of the best ways to ensure streak-free results is by using a squeegee with a rubber blade. This removes any lingering moisture and prevents the formation of water spots and streaks.
Before you start cleaning your windows, make sure to wipe the frames and grids with a cloth dampened with non-ammoniated all-purpose cleaner and water. Doing this will remove any dirt and grime, which can scratch or damage the glass when you wet-clean the windows. Then, you can start cleaning the actual glass.
To prevent soap scum and water spots, be sure to rinse off all of the chemicals in your cleaning solution before wiping the windows. This step also helps reduce the time it takes for the water to evaporate, which will help avoid streaking and spots.
Next, scrub the windows with a scrubber or sponge that is dampened with the cleaning solution. Be sure to scrub evenly and to rinse the scrubber or sponge frequently. If your windows are especially dirty, you may need to scrub with a stiff bristle brush. Always test any abrasive cleaner or tool on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t scratch the glass.
After scrubbing the windows, rinse them with clean water and a soft squeegee. Be sure to dry them as well. This will ensure that no streaks are left behind, and it will help prevent the buildup of bacteria or the formation of mold on the windows.
When drying the windows, use a clean, lint-free towel or newspaper pages. Avoid rags, as they can leave lint streaks and can even scratch the glass when used incorrectly. You may also want to have a bottle of window cleaner nearby in case the windows are particularly dirty or stained.
For large picture windows, professionals favor a technique called the snake. This method involves starting in one of the upper corners, pulling the squeegee horizontally across the window and then angling it down towards the other corner, where you then pull it vertically over the entire surface of the glass. This method allows you to clean huge picture windows faster than traditional scrubbing and squeegeing.
Cleaning Tips
Before you start cleaning your windows, it’s a good idea to pre-prep the surfaces by dusting them. This will remove any loose dirt and debris that could smear when wet with soapy water. It also gives you a chance to spot any spots that need more attention before they become permanent.
Once the surface is free of debris, you can move on to washing. To avoid letting your cleaner dry on the glass before you can wipe it away, work one section at a time. Start at the top and work your way down, making sure to overlap each stroke with the previous one.
For the best streak-free finish, use a microfiber cloth or chamois to buff your window once it’s clean. This is especially important on window frames and sills, where dirt can hide. You can also try using a rain-repellent treatment such as the 2-in-1 glass cleaner and rain repellent from Rain-X. These products help water beads roll off windows instead of soaking into them, which can cause streaks and dulling.
Rags and paper towels can leave behind lint on your glass as you wipe it. It’s a better idea to invest in a few quality microfiber cloths and a chamois for the job. These items are lint-free and gentle, so they won’t damage your newly cleaned glass. You can also use a lint roller for stubborn or sticky spots.
Before squeegeeing, dampen a microfiber cloth or chamois in clean water to keep the blades of your squeegee from drying out. You should also wipe the edge of the blade with a fresh cloth before beginning each stroke. Press firmly with the handle in your dominant hand and hold the blade of the squeegee at about a 45deg angle to the window. Work the squeegee in an “S” shape, and wipe the blade on the cloth periodically to prevent it from drying out and leaving water on your glass.
When you’re finished, place a towel on the floor in front of the window to catch drips and spills. And don’t forget to clean the screens on your windows before you begin wiping them!