No matter the type, size, or style of your home, it’s always important to make sure that your windows are clean if you want to enjoy the view. If your entire home is clean but your windows are dirty, it can undo all of your cleaning efforts. One of the biggest problems when cleaning windows is preventing streaks. Streaks tend to form without you even realizing, and they are most visible at certain angles and at night. Fortunately, there are some easy techniques that you can apply in order to prevent a less than perfect result.
Type Of Water
Drinking water is often analyzed and treated with a fair amount of caution. However, when it comes to cleaning, many of us don’t give it a second thought. Just about anything goes when it comes to washing your home. When it comes to your windows, however, it can be worth using a cleaner water source instead of your average tap water. Glass has a way of highlighting each and every imperfection so, consider using distilled water for your windows. This is particularly beneficial if you have hard water coming out of your taps. Since distilled water lacks various minerals found in tap water, it won’t leave behind those pesky deposits that cause streaks.
Cleaning Agent
There are some great window cleaning products out there as well as those of inferior quality. The cheaper options usually don’t work as well as the higher-priced varieties. If you are looking for a cheap yet effective solution, try vinegar! Vinegar is a cost-effective choice, it’s highly effective, and it’s natural too. If you’re not a fan of the smell, you can use your regular window cleaner inside the home and save the 50/50 water and vinegar solution for use outdoors. Vinegar is great or preventing streaks which is why so many homeowners choose to endure the temporary unpleasant odor.
Less bubbles
Just like mineral deposits from the water can cause streaks, so too can excessively soapy water. If you use too much soap in your window washing water, the residue can stay behind and cause streaks. Use minimal detergent. Warm (not hot) water is far more effective at removing dirt than an overdose of suds so keep bubbles to a minimum.
Paper Towels
While many people still use old newspapers to clean their windows, this is not the ideal cleaning material. Once the newspaper gets wet or comes into contact with the cleaning agent, it will cause the ink in the paper to be released. The ink will then spread all over your window frames and your hands. Paper towels were often chosen instead of newspaper, but these materials are known for leaving behind streaks and a find paper-like residue. Instead, you should use a squeegee or a microfiber cloth for the best results.
Finish With A Buff
If, despite your best efforts, you still notice a streak here and there, you can solve this with a quick buff. Use a microfiber cloth or chamois only after you have dried the glass. Buff over the entire glass panel to make sure that any streaks have been removed.
Don’t forget the importance of regular cleaning. The less time you give dirt to build up, the easier they are to clean. Take a look at our wide range of windows at NorthShield Windows and Doors. We are proud to offer free in-home quotes. Call Winnipeg (204) 272-3725 / Toronto (905) 326-3444 now to schedule your appointment!