Cleaning windows is an essential part of maintaining a home’s value. Keeping a schedule of biweekly cleanings helps to keep grime and streaks at bay.
Start with a canvas drop cloth or old blanket to catch drips and splatters. Pour a solution of water mixed with liquid dishwashing detergent in a bucket and begin washing. Contact Window Cleaning Sarasota now!
When dirt buildup on glass surfaces is left unattended, it not only reduces the visual appeal of windows but can eventually damage them. This happens when acid from rain, hard water or road salt seeps into the pores of the glass and begins to corrode it over time. This damage often appears as small stains or streaks that can spread and can ultimately cause the glass to break down. Keeping your windows clean will help them last longer and prevent expensive repairs or replacements.
Professional window cleaners have a variety of tools they use to wash the glass surfaces in homes, businesses and many other kinds of buildings. They use brushes or sponges to apply soapy water or cleaning solutions and then dry the wet surfaces using a cloth, chamois skin or squeegee. They also clean the window frames and sills to remove dust and other debris.
Many commercial window cleaners use a special attachment for their vacuum cleaner that allows them to suck up dirt and other debris from the corners of windows that are typically out of reach. They may also have access to a ladder that extends up to three or more stories so they can reach the top of a tall building or a large bay window.
Other tools window cleaners use include scrub brushes with soft bristles that won’t scratch glass and a water-fed brush that sprays water onto the windows to wash them. They may also have a supply bucket of large disposable cloths to wipe the windows dry made in a specialized material that doesn’t leave streaks or lint.
In addition to washing the glass surfaces, window cleaners frequently examine the windows for signs of damage or potential problems. They look for chips or cracks in the glass, check the window mechanisms to ensure they are working properly and inspect the frames and sills for rot or insect damage. Window cleaners can also spot problems that you might not notice, such as a broken seal between the panes of double or triple-glazed windows that can increase your energy bills.
Squeegee
A squeegee is a window cleaning tool with a rubber blade that is used to remove excess water from a surface. It can be used on windows, floors, walls, and other surfaces to provide a clean and dry finish. The benefits of using a squeegee include the ability to remove excess moisture and dirt quickly, as well as preventing water spots or streaks. The squeegee is also easy to use and can be used by people of all skill levels.
There are many different types of squeegees on the market, from simple vinyl ones to advanced metal ones. It is important to choose a squeegee that is durable and made of high-quality materials. A good choice is the Unger Professional Performance Grip Squeegee, which features an ergonomic handle that is designed to be comfortable to hold for long periods of time. It is also rust-resistant and comes with a lifetime warranty. Another option is the Tornado E-Z Reach squeegee, which has an extendable handle that allows you to reach even the highest windows without having to climb or strain.
Squeegees were first developed as a tool for commercial window cleaners. As cities grew and more skyscrapers were built, window cleaners needed a way to get the job done quickly and efficiently. The squeegee was perfect for the task, as it allowed them to quickly remove water and soapy residue from glass surfaces without needing to scrub or rinse. The squeegee is an essential tool for anyone who wants to have a clean and beautiful home or business.
The squeegee can be used in conjunction with other cleaning tools, such as microfiber cloths, which are very effective at absorbing remaining water and residue. In addition, it is important to use the right type of cleaning solution and water for the glass surface. The cleaner should be formulated to be safe for use on glass, and it is a good idea to test the product on an inconspicuous part of the window before applying it to the entire surface.
Although the squeegee method of cleaning provides superior results, there are certain situations when this method is not suitable. For example, if the window is large sections of glass that can be cleaned in one pass and there is no risk of ‘blips’ (lines that appear on the surface only when the sun is directly hitting it), this cleaning method is very effective.
Drop Cloth
When cleaning windows, it’s important to be able to protect the surrounding surfaces from spills and drips. While paper towels may work in a pinch, terry cloths are typically preferred due to their thickness and durability. They’re also lint-free, which helps prevent streaking when wiping down glass and window frames. For a more professional touch, consider a microfiber cloth, which is ideal for detail cleaning and has been shown to have superior cleaning power.
In addition to a drop cloth, professional window cleaners will often bring along scraping tools to remove any stubborn marks or paint from glass. This step can save a lot of time, as it avoids the need to scrub hard-to-reach spots. When using a scraper, be sure to take care not to damage the wood framing underneath the window or leave behind scratches.
Another important accessory for professional window cleaners is a bucket of water and a solution of mild dish soap or vinegar, and optionally, ammonia. The soap breaks up greasy dirt and allows the squeegee to glide smoothly over the surface. For a more natural cleaning option, you can also use 2 tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice in place of the ammonia.
Once the windows are cleaned, a towel or microfiber cloth is used to dry the windows. It’s usually best to wait for a cloudy day, as bright sunlight can dry the cleaning solution and leave streaks on the windows.
In some cases, window cleaners will also use a piece of newspaper to dry the windows, which is an easy and effective method. This is especially helpful for homes with wooden window frames, as the newspaper’s lint-free and absorbent properties help ensure that there are no residues on the frame or sill.
While it’s possible to acquire all of these items and perform your own window cleaning services, there’s also the convenience and expert level of service that comes with hiring a professional. By working with an experienced company like Squeegee Squad, you can rest assured that the job will be handled quickly and efficiently.
Microfiber Towel
Microfiber cloths are a great choice when cleaning windows because they are lint-free and non-abrasive, leaving your windows with a streak-free shine. They are also very absorbent, so you can use less cleaning solution and are more environmentally friendly than traditional paper towels.
Choose a microfiber cloth made from a polyester and polyamide blend for the best results. The ratio of these two materials determines how durable the towel is, how soft it is and how well it resists fraying. For example, AMMEX’s Premium Glass & Window Microfiber Cloth is made from 70/30 polyester and polymide material and features silk piping around the edges. This prevents scratching and keeps the edges from falling off, making it more durable than other microfiber towels.
Before using your microfiber cloth, spray it with a cleaner or water to make sure it’s thoroughly saturated. You can use a commercial cleaning product or homemade cleaning solution such as vinegar, rubbing alcohol or dish washing liquid. If you choose to use a cleaning solution, apply it to the surface and wipe with a dry microfiber towel. This ensures you don’t get any cleaning solution on the frames and tracks of your windows, which can cause them to smudge and leave residue.
Once you’ve wiped away the solution, use your dry microfiber cloth to eliminate any remaining water spots or streaks from the windows and mirrors. Be sure to wring out the cloth often, as it may lose its absorbency if you don’t. Also, don’t place your damp microfiber cloth in the dryer because it can create a lot of lint and damage the microfiber fibers.
When purchasing microfiber towels, it’s important to look for high-quality products with a low denier—the weight of one strand of silk. A higher denier means the towel is thicker and heavier, which can make it difficult to fold and carry. You should also avoid any cloths that shed microfibers, as these can end up in your lungs and waterways, damaging the environment. Finally, you should consider a color-coded system for your towels so you can easily tell them apart by purpose (white for window cleaning, blue for applying and removing waxes, green for plastic trim, etc.).